It sounds tough. You’ll need tools like IDRS, FDRS, ForScan, or a good scan tool, plus an OBD to PC cable, two blank keys, and some knowledge about programming. If you can tow the car to a Ford dealer, they should be able to fix it, but it might cost quite a bit.
Moving parts from one car to another won’t work without reprogramming. The immobilizer might be a separate module or part of the instrument cluster. Look up ‘1999 Ford Explorer PATS’ online to find more details.
@Blaise
Thanks for explaining. I don’t think I can do this myself. Ford dealers here in Germany either can’t or don’t want to help. I have the manuals from Ford, but there’s nothing in them about bypassing or fixing the immobilizer (probably to prevent theft).
@Mack
Fun fact: your Explorer’s engine was built in Cologne, Germany! Check this site; it might help: https://charm.li/Ford%20Truck/1999/Explorer%204WD%20V6-4.0L%20VIN%20E/Repair%20and%20Diagnosis/.
Have you tried programming two keys? That might solve it. Or contact a locksmith—they might have tools for this.
@Wylie
I agree. My local Ford dealer could fix this in under an hour. Sounds like they just don’t want to deal with such an old car.
@Mack
If the PATS system is failing, the light on your dash should blink a two-digit error code like 1-2 or 2-1. Can you check and tell us what code you’re getting?
First, figure out if this is the original immobilizer or an aftermarket one. The original system won’t crank without the right chip key. If it cranks, it could be something else, like the fuel cutoff. To program a new key, you’ll need two existing ones.
@Dar
Hi, thanks for replying. When I try to start it, the display just shows a lock symbol, and the engine doesn’t respond. I think it’s the original immobilizer. Why do I need two existing keys?
Mack said:
@Dar
Hi, thanks for replying. When I try to start it, the display just shows a lock symbol, and the engine doesn’t respond. I think it’s the original immobilizer. Why do I need two existing keys?
That’s just how Ford’s system works—you need two keys to program a third. You could also try a locksmith; some can cut and program keys for you.
Here’s a guide: 1999 Ford Explorer Ignition Transponder Chip Key Programming Instructions.
Mack said:
@Dar
Hi, thanks for replying. When I try to start it, the display just shows a lock symbol, and the engine doesn’t respond. I think it’s the original immobilizer. Why do I need two existing keys?
Have you ruled out everything else? PATS can act up for many reasons. Are any lights flashing a code?
Here’s a guide with more info: Imgur: The magic of the Internet.
Mack said:
@Dar
Hi, thanks for replying. When I try to start it, the display just shows a lock symbol, and the engine doesn’t respond. I think it’s the original immobilizer. Why do I need two existing keys?
Here’s another diagnostic guide for PATS: Imgur: The magic of the Internet.
Have you tried asking Explorerteile in Hamburg? They might know. Also, any running Explorer is worth over 1000€, so does it still meet the conditions for fixing?
Tristan said:
Have you tried asking Explorerteile in Hamburg? They might know. Also, any running Explorer is worth over 1000€, so does it still meet the conditions for fixing?
I haven’t reached out to them yet, but I’ll check. We bought the Explorer for 400€, so there’s some room to deal with the key issue. It looks like we won’t be able to fix it before January, though.