2000 Taurus won't start

[ShawninCO]

It won't crank. Not even a click. The headlights are bright and don't dim when I try to start. Tried jumping it - no good. Had battery tested - it's good. The battery posts are clean.
I remember you used to be able to short the relay on Fords to turn it over, but I don't see one on mine. Are they internal to the solenoid now?
Is it easy to bypass the nuetral safety switch?
Any ideas would be appreciated.

[Millermagic]

Are you using the PATS key?
Try hitting the starter with a cro bar or something.

[ShawninCO]

I just did a quick Google search on this PATs subject. Never had to deal with it before, so I wasn’t familiar with how it works. I’m not sure if I have a PATs 1 or 2 though. Based on the year and model, it looks like I have a 2. Is there any way to be sure?

I do have the original keys that came with the car. I’ve tried both with no luck.

You might be on to something with this though. I noticed that when I turn the key to the On position, the Theft light seems to flash at a faster pace now and is persistent. It might have done this all along, and I just never noticed though. I’ve never left the key in the On position when it wasn’t running. I found in another post where someone suggested turning the key to the On position for 10 minutes, then back to Off, and then starting. I tried this a few times last night with no luck.

Would one of those cheap code readers pick up a problem with PATs? I’ve never used them. I’ve been suspicious that they may not do a good job. Are they worth the money?

I’d be just as happy to bypass the whole PATs system if I could. I couldn’t give a crusty rats rear end if someone stole this car. They’d probably be doing me a favor.

[shorod]

A cheap scan tool or code reader will not display PATS codes, to get those you will need a professional tool (and not one that says "Professional" on the box) or a dealer tool. Autozone does not sell these (contrary to what they may try to tell you). An OTC Genisys can read PATS codes, the Snap-On version may be able to, and the dealer tools can. I'm not sure if there are others.

The inexpensive code readers are worth having around if you have a few vehicles 1996 and newer. They will display generic OBD-II powertrain codes for all cars sold in the United States from 1996 to current, but you may want to make sure the tool you get if you decide to is also capable of the CAN protocol. However, many chain automotive parts stores will scan the codes at no charge as long as you can get the car to the store.

-Rod

[ShawninCO]

FYI in case someone has the same problem.
It was the PATS transceiver in the steering column. $50 for the part and another $140 in labor at the dealer. The transceiver cannot be bypassed.