Anti Theft ''no start'' has been activated somehow by mistake and I am unable to start the vehicle with eithe of my 2 programmed keys. My keyless remote device is not active either, although, I was able to get it to work for a short time after following the manual instructions, but the vehicle still would not start. The remote entry stopped working again. What should I try? I did follow some instructions in the user manual and was able to get the

The PATS anti-theft system will not let the starter engage an spin the engine around to start the vehicle if the theft deterrent module does not get correct coded value from the pats key. There is a transponder in the head of the key - when put into the lock cylinder a antenna behind the plastic steering column energizes the transponder which makes it send it's unique code to the computers on the vehicle. You have no clue what you're doing . Take it to a qualified repair shop .

You would need a factory scan tool to check for codes in the computers before just replacing parts. Changing the ignition ? lock & key assemble or the electrical part of ignition switch? If key an lock cylinder the key needs to be programmed into the control modules .

Anti-Theft NOTE: If the instrument cluster or the PCM (or both) is installed, the parameters must be reset in both modules or the vehicle will experience a passive anti-theft system (PATS) no-start. For additional information, refer to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset in this section.
PATS consists of the following components:

• Anti-theft indicator (located in the autolamp/sunload sensor)
• Encoded (the key contains a transponder) ignition key
• PATS transceiver
• Instrument cluster
• Powertrain control module (PCM)

PATS uses radio frequency identification technology to deter a drive-away theft. Passive means that it does not require any activity by the user.
The vehicle is equipped with 2 PATS keys. A maximum of 8 PATS keys can be programmed to start the vehicle. If additional PATS keys are desired, refer to Spare Key Programming - Unlimited Key Mode in this section.

That is because the switch must be paired with the ECU. Anti theft has activated. Call your local garage for assistance.

The PATS - passive anti-theft system is a program (software ) programmed into the instrument cluster , PCM - engine computer , GEM module etc... Plus behind the plastic shroud on steering column where the lock cylinder is located the passive anti-theft transceiver module ! You better know what your getting into when you start to mess with anti-theft systems , you can render your vehicle useless if your not careful ! Need factory scanner to program keys , to read trouble codes , check data etc... If you change transceiver module it will need to be programmed ! FORD DEALER ONLY ! You can program more keys but need to have original two keys that came with the vehicle or you can't do it >
Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) -Principles of Operation 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 out of over 18 billion, billion combinations.
The passive anti-theft system (PATS), also known as SecuriLock ®, uses radio frequency identification technology to deter a drive-away theft. This system is known as SecuriLock® in North America, Safeguard® in the U.K., and PATS in Continental Europe. Passive means that it does not require any activity from the user.
The SecuriLock® System (PATS) is not compatible with non-Ford aftermarket remote start systems, which allow the vehicle to be started from outside the vehicle. These systems may reduce the vehicle security level, and also may cause no-start issues. If equipped, the remote start system must be removed before investigation of PATS-related, no-start issues.
Each encoded ignition key must be programmed into the vehicle powertrain control module (PCM) before it can be used to start the engine. There are special diagnostic repair procedures described in this section that must be carried out if a new encoded ignition key is necessary.
The correct ignition key is a different design than prior model years. Please consult the Rotunda Key Ordering Guide for the correct part number.
So , before messing with something you know nothing about , do yourself a favor , take it to the nearest FORD dealer !
So

Hi Carol , do you mean PATS passive antitheft system ? Locked up your car ,do you mean it won't crank over an start ?
The passive anti-theft system uses radio frequency identification technology to deter a driveaway theft. Passive means that it does not require any activity from the user.

• During each vehicle start sequence, the ignition key identification code is requested by the vehicle protection anti-theft electronics.
• If the key's ID code has been programmed into the system, the powertrain control module (PCM) (12A650) is signaled to enable the vehicle to start.
• If the key's ID code is not programmed into the system, or if no encoded key is detected, then the powertrain control module is signaled to disable the vehicle.

The passive anti-theft system communicates the state of the security system to the powertrain control module via the J-1850 communications network data link connector (DLC). The powertrain control modulebased on the communications from the passive anti-theft system, will determine if the vehicle's engine is enabled to start. The passive anti-theft system differs from the active anti-theft alarm system in that the passive anti-theft system enables/disables the vehicle from starting and only operates with the ignition switch in RUN/START position. The active anti-theft alarm system has perimeter protection capabilities and operates only with the ignition switch OFF. Refer to Section 13-11A for active anti-theft alarm system information.
Vehicle Disabling The passive anti-theft system will be activated and disable the vehicle from starting if any of the following conditions exist:

• damaged encoded key
• unprogrammed key
• non-encoded key (key has no electronics)
• wiring concern
• transceiver concern
• Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) control module concern
• J-1850 Communications Network concern
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

If is the original key fob, you may need to reprogram it

anti theft light should blink every few seconds.

try disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes.

Anti-Theft-Perimeter The perimeter anti-theft system consists of the following components:

• anti-theft indicator (THEFT)
• remote anti-theft personality (RAP) module
• hood switch
• keyless entry remote transmitter
• deck lid ajar switch

NOTE: The remote entry features will not function when the ignition switch is in the RUN or ACC position.
Up to four keyless entry remote transmitters (15K601) can be programmed at one time.
The keyless entry remote transmitters :

• Are programmable.
• Must be set at the same time.
• House four buttons.
• House three buttons (Mexico Anti-Theft System only).

Programming
Refer to Section 501-14B.
Inputs and Outputs
The remote anti-theft personality (RAP) module receives input from the following components for anti-theft operation:

• Hood switch.
• Deck lid ajar switch.
• Keyless entry remote transmitter.
• Power door lock switches (LH and RH).
• Door courtesy input.

The RAP module distributes output to the following for the anti-theft system:

• Power door unlock relay.
• Power door lock relay.
• Liftgate unlock relay (Wagon)
• Park lamps relay.
• HORN relay.
• Dome lamp.
• THEFT indicator.
• Deck lid release.

Arming
The anti-theft system can be armed if:

• The ignition switch is in the OFF position.
• The panic alarm is off.
• All doors are closed.

NOTE: If a door is open, the anti-theft system is prearmed and waiting for all the doors to be closed. The THEFT indicator will remain illuminated for up to 30 minutes waiting for all the doors to be closed. If a door remains open after 30 minutes, the THEFT indicator will turn off and the system will return to a disarmed state. After all doors are closed and the 30 second prearm (continuous THEFT indicator illumination) is complete, the system is armed.
NOTE: If the theft LED does not flash after 30 seconds, check the LED FLASH PID to see if the feature is enabled.
The anti-theft system will be armed when the lock button on the keyless entry remote transmitter is pressed, all doors are closed and 30 seconds have elapsed.
When the system is armed, the THEFT indicator will flash quickly until the system is triggered or disarmed.
Disarming
NOTE: Using a key in a door lock cylinder to unlock is not a valid method of disarming the anti-theft system.
Untriggered System
NOTE: If the driver arms the system and remains in the vehicle, an untriggered system can be disarmed by turning the ignition switch to the ON position.
An untriggered alarm system can be disarmed by pressing the unlock button on the keyless entry remote transmitter.
Triggered System
NOTE: If the hood or trunk are open when the system is armed, it must be closed and opened again before it can trigger an alarm.
An armed anti-theft system can be triggered by the following conditions:
The deck lid door, liftgate, hood or any door is opened using a key, inside door handle, hood release, etc.

• The keyless entry remote transmitter can activate a panic alarm which is similar to the anti-theft alarm, but does not cause the THEFT indicator to flash.

A triggered alarm system can be disarmed by:

• Pressing the unlock or panic button on the keyless entry remote transmitter.
• Turning the ignition switch to the ON position.

Alarm State When Battery Power Is Cycled
When the RAP module is supplied power the first time at the vehicle assembly plant, the system will be in the disarmed state. The RAP module will remember whether it is armed, disarmed or triggered in its non-volatile memory. When the battery positive cable is removed and then reconnected, the system will return to the state it was in just before the battery was disconnected. If the system is in any prearm state, then the system will return to a disarmed state when the battery is disconnected and then reconnected.

sounds like the transmitter in the key head is defective or it lost programming, try these programing steps, if that doesn't do it u need another key made.

Turn ignition from OFF to RUN 8 times within 10 seconds, with the 8th time ending in RUN. Door
locks will cycle to confirm programming mode.
2. Within 20 seconds press any button on first keyless remote. Door locks will cycle to confirm
programming.
3. Within 20 seconds, press any button on second keyless remote. Door locks will cycle again to
confirm programming.
4. Turn ignition to OFF. Locks will again cycle to indicate end of programming mode.

Interesting problem.. since not US spec. Is there a 'remote keyless (fob)' programmed for this vehicle? That's the only way to DE-arm the immobilizer (anti-theft) feature (based on US specs). Unless you have this key fob (keyless entry remote... which must also be programmed for this vehicle), the only other way is wait 5 minutes with the existing key in the ignition, then it should start (US specs). You will still need to have an 'ACTIVE' keyless remote programmed for this vehicle... otherwise, you'll continue to run into this problem.

Section 13-11: Anti-Theft System, Active 1998 Windstar Workshop Manual DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION Anti-Theft Alarm System NOTE: The system immediately monitors the ignition key lock cylinder upon removal of the key from the ignition. It is not necessary to arm the system for ignition key lock monitoring.

The anti-theft alarm system:

• protects the vehicle from unauthorized entry into the passenger compartment, engine compartment and cargo area.
• monitors the status of the ignition key lock cylinder.
• is controlled by a remote anti-theft personality (RAP) module. The remote anti-theft personality module also controls the electronic door lock functions. Refer to Section 01-14B for more details.
• when armed, detects unauthorized entry into the passenger compartment by using an input from the GEM module regarding the state of the door or liftgate (open or closed).
• protects the engine compartment with a hood switch which is located on the LH cowl vent panel and is part of windshield wiper motor wiring (17A477) .
• triggers an alarm if the ignition lock cylinder is forcibly removed from the steering column.

Once triggered, the system responds by:

• flashing the low beam headlamps, the parklamps, rear lamps and the alarm indicator warning light emitting diode (LED).
• sounding the horn (13832).
• disabling the starter circuit until the system is disarmed.

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Remote Anti-Theft Personality Module

• The remote anti-theft personality module is located behind the instrument panel (04320).
• It contains a radio receiver that receives the RF signal from the keyless entry remote transmitter (15K601) through the alarm and lock system antenna (15603) and sends the appropriate command to the power door locks, the horn relay, or the generic electronic module.
• The remote anti-theft personality module is equipped with an internal backup power supply which holds the programmed code in memory in the event the vehicle battery is disconnected.

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Remote Anti-Theft Personality Module Removal

1. Disconnect battery ground cable (14301). Refer to Section 14-01 .
   

1. Remove radio. Refer to Section 15-01 .
   

1. Remove lower instrument panel center finish panel. Refer to Section 01-12 .
   

1. Lower glove box.
   

1. Remove two remote anti-theft personality module bracket retaining screws.
   

1. Disconnect electrical connectors and alarm and lock system antenna (15603).
   

1. Remove remote anti-theft personality module and bracket.
   

1. Remove remote anti-theft personality module from mounting bracket.
   

Installation

1. To install, follow removal procedure in reverse order.
   

1. Tighten remote anti-theft personality module bracket retaining screws to 6-8 Nm (54-70 lb-in).
   
   

Components The system is composed of the following components:

• remote anti-theft personality (RAP) module with integral antenna
• alarm indicator LED
• door lock cylinder switch RH, door lock cylinder switch LH
• liftgate door lock cylinder switch (220A40)
• hood switch (part of windshield wiper motor wiring (17A477))
• ignition lock anti-theft switch (19A438)

The following vehicle components are also used by the anti-theft alarm system:

• generic electronic module
• power door lock switch (14028)
• door open warning lamp switch (14018)
• autolamp relay (14N089)
• horn relay and bracket (13853) and horn (13832)
• low beam headlamps
• rear lamps (13404) and parking lamps (13200)
• starter relay
• door lock relays
• keyless entry remote transmitter (15K601)

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Disarming an Untriggered System NOTE: A perimeter alarm will "shut off" after 165 seconds, but the system is still triggered and is not disarmed.

An armed but untriggered perimeter anti-theft system can be disarmed by one of the following four events:

1. Unlock the doors by pressing the keyless entry remote transmitter (15K601) UNLOCK button once.
2. Unlock any door with a key.
3. Turn ignition switch to RUN or ACC.
4. The remote entry PANIC button will disarm the anti-theft system only when the perimeter alarm is triggered and sounding.

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System Triggering NOTE: Although the remote entry PANIC alarm is not associated with the monitoring of the vehicle, the user will frequently say that the theft system was triggered when actually the keyless entry remote transmitter PANIC button was inadvertently pressed. A panic alarm will not flash the THEFT indicator.

The alarm can be triggered by the following events if the system has been armed and has not been disarmed first:

• Open any door or liftgate.
• Open the hood (16612) (if the hood was open when the system was armed, it must be closed before it can trigger the alarm).
• Dislodge the ignition key lock cylinder.
• The anti-theft system may be triggered inadvertently when the module is disconnected and then reconnected. To avoid inadvertent alarm triggering, disconnect the smaller 22-way connector first.

When the system is triggered the perimeter alarm will operate as follows: The remote anti-theft personality module will pulse the following outputs at approximately 1.3 Hz, 50 percent duty cycle for two minutes 45 seconds for North America. NOTE: Other perimeter alarms can be programmed for the system.

• low beam headlamps
• parking lamps
• horn
• THEFT indicator

The perimeter alarm can be retriggered, after a perimeter alarm has sounded for 165 seconds. After a perimeter alarm has timed out, if any trigger input is first seen as normal and is then seen in its trigger state, the perimeter alarm will be retriggered. The perimeter alarm can be triggered a total of three times between an arming sequence and a disarm event. An active panic alarm will be deactivated when a perimeter alarm is triggered (a perimeter alarm overrides a panic alarm).