Section 8 (Anti-Theft System - Passive): Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article. DO NOT apply electrical power to any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag system. Air bag may deploy.

Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) is designed to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. The system is passive in that it does not require any activity from the user. System uses a frequency technology to verify if proper electronically coded ignition key is being used to attempt to start the vehicle.

If proper electronically coded ignition key is used, Steering Column/Ignition/Lighting Control (SCIL) module activates Powertrain Control Module (PCM) by using module communications network and allows vehicle to start. If improper electronically coded ignition key is used, SCIL module will not activate PCM by using module communications network and vehicle will not start. The PATS system consists of anti-theft indicator light, electronically coded ignition key, module communications network, passive anti-theft receiver antenna, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and SCIL module.