1997 Ford Mustang PATS question - (Won't start)?

Question

Okay, so I have a 1997 Ford Mustang GT. Took it in to Best Buy today to have an after market alarm installed on it. The install tech calls me half way through the project and informs me that my car will not start now. He says that all he did was install the LED light, install the siren, cut the door lock wires to hook it up to the alarm, and install a panic button. He was going to cut the wire to the starter to hook up the starter kill in the new alarm, and went to turn the car on and it wouldn't start. He hadn't cut the starter wire yet he said. The car functions properly in every way except when you try to start it. There is absolutely no cranking or clicking or anything. Seems to me that the PATS (anti-theft) system is not allowing the engine to start, but wouldn't the theft light be on if this was the case?

Is there a way to test if it is PATS system blocking access to the starter? Is there a way to reset it without having to tow it to a dealer?

I'm not even 100% sure that this model HAS the pats system installed on it, but I think I recall reading that it was installed on 1996-1997 Mustangs...?

Answer 1

Sorry buddy, but you're SOL if you have a PATS issue. The theft light should be flashing fast if you have a PATS issue. It means PATS does not recognize the key you are using. Did the technician cut the transceiver wire around your ignition lock cylinder?

Answer 2

It was installed on some mustangs if I remember.. (I think the GT had it... 3.8 didn't if I remember)

But as Rakel said, if the PATS system was tripped, the theft light under the speedometer should be blinking real quick.. another way is anyone with a handheld scanner should pick up a p1260 if memory serves...

But my guess is like everyone else and possible installer error or other issues..my guess is something when he installed the led got unplugged and not replugged in...


also he should forget that damn starter interupt... don't know how many I've had to bypass due to alarms going out down the road not allowing their car to start... (the PATS is a even better theft detterant than the starter interupt in the alarm IMO)

Answer 3

Sounds like the Best Buy installer has a problem. I would guess they owe you a loaner until they can figure out the problem. The installer had better put things back the way they were and start over on the install. Sounds like he cut the wrong wires.

Answer 4

Wht would you have a aftermarket Alarm put in Pats system is a Anti theft - alarm system.Sound like he tampered with it.I would try your spare pats key.If not the Dealer is the only option for Pats