Anti theft activated

130 MILES • 4.0L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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BIGLOU6088
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  • 6 POSTS
I have no idea what else to try after trying everything. Ford dealer wants to charge me an arm and a leg so I want to fix myself if possible.
Jan 30, 2020 at 12:19 AM
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BMDOUBLE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,139 POSTS
I would be happy to help! First we will need to retrieve the trouble codes from the passive anti theft system module (pats) and the power-train control module (PCM). This will direct us to the correct pinpoint test procedures to use. I've attached a picture of the system components to give you an idea of what's involved.
Jan 30, 2020 at 2:06 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,721 POSTS
It sounds like the system may need a hard reboot which is done by holding the negative battery cable end to the positive terminal for about 1 minute this will discharge the capacitors in the system and let it reboot. this guide can help us:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-reset-a-security-system

Please run down this guide and report back.
Jan 30, 2020 at 3:59 AM
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BMDOUBLE
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  • 1,139 POSTS
Is it the factory alarm system, or an aftermarket add on alarm system?
Jan 30, 2020 at 6:39 AM
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BIGLOU6088
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  • 6 POSTS
It is a factory alarm system.
Jan 31, 2020 at 12:21 AM
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BIGLOU6088
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  • 6 POSTS
So I'm going to try the hard reboot. So I just disconnect the the negative and hold it to the positive?
Jan 31, 2020 at 12:24 AM
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BMDOUBLE
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  • 1,139 POSTS
Yes. Let us know what your results are.
Feb 1, 2020 at 1:27 AM
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BIGLOU6088
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  • 6 POSTS
Putting the negative to the positive did not work unfortunately.
Feb 2, 2020 at 9:47 PM
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BIGLOU6088
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  • 6 POSTS
If I change the ECU would that work?
Feb 2, 2020 at 11:27 PM
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BMDOUBLE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,139 POSTS
You haven't given us any trouble code information, that is the first step in diagnosing this type of issue. We don't want you to spend money if you don't have to my friend!
Feb 2, 2020 at 11:33 PM
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BIGLOU6088
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  • 6 POSTS
I have no computer to get the codes. I would have to ask a friend to see if they have one and get back to y'all.
Feb 2, 2020 at 11:36 PM
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BMDOUBLE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,139 POSTS
Okay, awesome! Let us know.
Feb 3, 2020 at 12:18 AM
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