Have a 1198 ford explorer. Theft is activated and I don't have a key for the ignition. The SUV want start, how can I turn the theft off, or is there a way to do this.

check for worn --damaged key-- ignition cylinder --ignition switch

The old key may have an induction chip in to deactivate the anti theft system. Does it have a red insert (chip) in the key handle? Get the old key and place it as close to the ignition barrel as possible. Seen this done on a number of occasions to save paying for a key reprogram.

The anti theft light will flash fast on the dash if it's activated. You simply lock & unlock the doors to disarm it.

Check your inertia switch to see if it is activated. Press the rest button. Se owner manual to rest.

The control functions are contained in the instrument cluster. This module carries out all of the PATS functions such as receiving the identification code from the encoded ignition key and controlling engine enable. The instrument cluster initiates the key interrogation sequence when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to RUN or START.
The PATS uses the PCM to enable or disable the engine. The instrument cluster communicates with the PCM over the SCP network in order to enable engine operation. The instrument cluster and the PCM use sophisticated messages in order to prevent a theft. The instrument cluster and the PCM share security data (when first installed together) that makes them a matched pair. After this security data sharing, these modules will not function in other vehicles. The shared PCM ID is remembered even if the battery is disconnected. The instrument cluster also stores the vehicle's key identification code even if the battery is disconnected. There are special diagnostic procedures outlined in this workshop manual that may be carried out if either a new instrument cluster or PCM needs to be installed.
All elements of PATS must be functional before the engine is allowed to start. If any of the components are not working correctly, the vehicle will not start.
PATS uses a visual theft indicator. This indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS problem, this indicator will either flash rapidly or glow steadily (for more than three seconds) when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START. PATS also "blips" the theft indicator every two seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual theft deterrent.
The PATS is not compatible with 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. Remote start systems must be removed before investigation of PATS-related no-start issues.
Visual Inspection Chart Mechanical Electrical

• Ignition lock cylinder
• Encoded ignition key (PATS key)
• Use of non-encoded ignition key (key without the molded plastic head, non-PATS key)
• Use of a non-programmed encoded ignition key

• Central junction box (CJB) Fuses:
  • Fuse 2 (5A)
  • Fuse 6 (5A)
  • Fuse 30 (30A)
• PATS transceiver
• Connectors
• Ignition switch

TRY REPROGRAM KEY .PUT KEY IN IGNITION SWITCH TURN IGNITION SWITCH ON POSITION 20 SECONDS DONT START ENGINE WAIT 20 SECONDS TURN OFF SWITCH THEN TURN SWITCH BACK ON 20 SECONDS WATCH THE THEFT SECURITY LIGHT BLINKING.WHEN THEFT STOP BLINKING VECHICLE WILL CRANK.IF LIGHT STILL BLINKING.TRY FEW MORE TIMES KEY IN SWITCH ON POSITION FOR 20 SECONDS.MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT CAR KEYS IN SWITCH IF NOT WRONG SET OF CAR KEYS WILL SET OFF THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM.IF KEY RESETTING TRICK DONT WORK.CHECK BATTERY POWER MAKE SURE YOUR BATTERY HAS 12.5 VOLTS AND CHECK SECURITY THEFT FUSE.IF ALL LOOKS GOOD YOUR SECURITY HAS TO BE CHECKED OUT AT THE DEALERSHIP.

you could pull the fuse disabling th anti theft totally.. not sure that would work though

If the key works and turns the switch and car don't start it theft deterent it will again after a small timeout

Yes you have a problem with the theft system. Have you tried a different key? It has a transponder system.

you need the schematic to see where the module is killing the ignition and or the fuel system. it will not be easy to do.,

Your vehicle has a anti-theft system in the keys/column. It is activated when you take the key out of the ignition. The theft light on the dash should blink.

do you have a remote controller ??
if so try to activate and deactivate several times and try to start the vehicle after that.
also you may giggle the key as well as the wheel while turning hte key to see if that frees the lock.