PATS (Passive Anti-theft System) offers advanced vehicle security with radio frequency identification, a trillion electronic codes and service as easy as turning a key! High-tech automotive security takes a turn for the better with the PATS ignition lock from Strattec Security Corp (formerly B&S Technologies).
Appearing for the first time in north America with the 1996 Ford Taurus SHO and LS and the Mercury Sable LX, PATS provides the latest in security technology in an easy to service manner with no special tools required. Sealed in the head of each key is a transponder (a sealed glass vial about the size of an automotive fuse) containing one of a trillion possible electronic codes. When activated upon insertion in the ignition of a PATS equipped vehicle, the transponder send a signal to a disc-shaped antenna surrounding the ignition cylinder. The antenna relays the signal to the control module and if the signal is recognized, the vehicle will be allowed to start. Up to sixteen different transponder codes can be programmed into a vehicle's control.
Servicing PATS equipped vehicles can be accomplished by any locksmith
without the need for special tools!
There is exception to this when the vehicle is newer then 1997.
STRATTEC Security Corporation provides the lock & key parts and
accessories used on these new Ford vehicles. The original transponder key
blank numbers are: 597602 for Ford and 597603 for Mercury. Aftermarket
transponder key blanks are available from several other sources.