1997 Taurus DOHC NO Start???

[kam300m]

I was driving my 1997 Taurus Wagon with the DOHC v6, it has 154k on it and have never had any problems with is! Well while driving it tonight the theft light was flashing and now the car will not start it will only turn over? I have a manual and it has gas, has spark, fuel pump is good, I don't know???? any help...

[shorod]

Sounds like there is a problem with the PATS system. Were you using a key that you've used before? Do you have another key that has previously been programmed to the car and worked? If so, try it. If not, or the key doesn't work either, then you're probably stuck taking it to the dealer to get the PATS system diagnosed and repaired.

-Rod

[lectra]

Also try taking the key off the keyring and trying it all by its lonesome. The passive antitheft system Ford uses uses radio waves to communicate with a chip in the key. If it doesn't hear a response from that chip, or the chip turns out to be the wrong guy (not programmed into your car), then the car will refuse to start thinking that your key is a copycat. Other keys or objects can interfere with this process, causing a no-start condition. You haven't changed anything, like adding a remote start kit, have you? That will often interfere with starting your car.

[carlos80]

You might also want to try your spare key. If nothing works you can call a locksmiths some of them can actually program the keys(you'll need at least two) and it wont cost you an arm and a leg to tow it then have it programmed at a dealer. If you only have one key you also don't have to take it to the dealer. Just take the vin and proof that the vehicle is yours and they'll cut you a new one.

[shorod]

Originally Posted by carlos80

Just take the vin and proof that the vehicle is yours and they'll cut you a new one.

With PATS, the transponder keys need to be programmed to the car, so cutting a new key alone wouldn't work. If the locksmith has the equipment to program new keys to the PATS though, the locksmith could possibly do the work on-site. You're right, that would likely be less expensive than towing it to the dealer and having them do it. To find a locksmith that makes house calls, you could check with local used car lots in your area. Around here there is one that works a few states around here and is in our area once or twice a week. There may be a similar locksmith in your area.

-Rod

[kam300m]

so, tomorrow morning I will bring the car to a local shop that has the tools and hopefully they can figure it out! I will try the no key chains with the key (cross me fingers!) thanks everyone for trying to solve this problemo!

Kalvin