PATS or Passive Anti-Theft System

I have to admit I have never been a fan of Ford. For the most part I think Ford makes crap vehicles. In fact this is the first Ford I have ever owned for that very reason.

When I bought this beast it only had one key. No problem, my 2005 Lexus came with one key, I just bought a new one online, used my original and programmed the new key.

Not so with my old Ford.

Instructions for Later 98 Fords

• 1 Insert the first original key into ignition.
• 2 Turn ignition to "ON" position then "OFF."
• 3 Remove the first original key and replace with second original key and turn ignition to "ON", then "OFF."
• 4 Remove second original key and replace with new key within 20 seconds and turn ignition to "ON", then "OFF." Light will flash for three seconds if successful. Wait one minute before starting engine.

Now if you have TWO f*ing keys why would you need a third and if you only have one you are f*ed too because you need to go to the Ford dealership; which is tantamount to visiting Walmart at midnight just as the food-stamp cards are loaded.


I am not about to spend $150 to buy and program a spare key, Ford can go F* themselves.

The reason I cannot use a regular blank is that it needs the RFID chip to start. But I cannot carry my Lexus Key and the Ford key on the same key-chain because they RFIDs interfere with each other.

So how can I get the Xploder to operate with a regular key and stop the Ford RFID and Lexus RFID keys from interfering with each other is the big question.

Well, fortunately for me I have opposable thumbs and an enlarged pre-frontal cortex.

I cut a key-sized hole just next to the ignition tumbler in the Xploder, then jammed the only key that works into that hole so the RFID sensor is happy. I can use a regular key blank in the ingnition tumbler now, as many as I f*ing want, and the RFID from the Xploder is left in the truck so it does not interfere with the Lexus key. 

I am sure I could have opened the key housing and JB-welded the RFID chip itself under the column cover but that seems too permanent.