JamesA

Hi all, I have a 2004 ZB Escape Limited, which I am really really happy with.

This should be a fairly simple question for people who are technically familiar with the Escape...
Does the Escape's on-board computer keep track of the number of spare keys programmed to that particular car ?

If it does, I will take it to my dealer and ask that this information be "read-out", because I suspect the previous owner may have not surrended all their keys.

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Sand Dune - V6 Escape Limited

 

Johnny Mullet

If you feel that is the issue, then take it to the dealer and request a PATS key code erase. As long as you have 2 keys, you are set.

The dealer will erase the keys and reprogram the 2 you have. This way, any "mystery keys" would not work in the ignition.

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JamesA

Many Thanks for that !

Is there any way I can do the PATS key code erase myself ?
I have two keys (originals) and two remote access pads.

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Sand Dune - V6 Escape Limited

Johnny Mullet

No way for you to do it. Dealer only!

Peace!

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JamesA

Johnny - many thanks for that.

Can the onboard computer tell you how many keys are programmed, or which ones were used when ?

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Sand Dune - V6 Escape Limited

Johnny Mullet

Nope. It will only add a new key or erase all keys.

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Stickdeath

This may be a bit long but here goes...

Unless you change the door locks, any keys the previous owner made will open the doors. If you have 2 keys, you can program another chipped key by inserting them in the ignition and turning in a special sequence.

I believe the max number of keys that can be programmed to work is 8 at a given time, I may be wrong. Example; If 8 are made and one is lost and you still require 8, the dealer will use a scan tool called a WDS to program a new set of 8, thus rendering the 7 keys left from the previous program useless for starting the vehicle but they will still open the doors. The reason for having 8 keys to one vehicle would be for say a fleet where several people need to drive the vehicle and then a spare is kept in the office etc...

The PATS module communicates with the PCM and keeps track of the number of keys programmed. If there are 8 keys programmed and someone decided he needs an extra one (9). The 9th key just rendered the other 8 useless for starting the vehicle. The keys are like $17 or so from the dealer. I've seen plenty of fleet managers go nuts when this happens.