Encoded Ignition Key

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) uses a specially encoded ignition key. Each encoded ignition key contains a permanently installed electronic device called a transponder. Each transponder contains a unique electronic identification code, with over 72 million, billion combinations. Each encoded ignition key must be programmed into vehicle's instrument cluster before it can be used to start the engine. Instrument cluster is also known as a Hybrid Electronic Cluster (HEC). There are special diagnostic procedures that must be carried out if new encoded ignition keys are to be installed. See KEY PROGRAMMING under PROGRAMMING. The encoded key is larger than a traditional ignition key. The key does not require batteries and should last the life of the vehicle.