How To Reset the Anti-Theft System On a Ford Escape
If you need to reset the anti-theft system on your Ford Escape, there are a few different methods you could try.
Written by Zachary Morgan
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
To reset the anti-theft system on a Ford Escape, put the key into the ignition and activate the electrical systems, but leave the engine turned off. Wait anywhere from two to 10 minutes then take the key out of the ignition—your theft prevention system should be reset.
The anti-theft system is a bit of an unsung hero among your car's features. You probably don’t think about it much, but you’d probably miss it if it was gone. In terms of stolen Ford vehicles, the Escape isn’t quite as hot of a commodity as the F-150—the second most stolen vehicle in the U.S.—but that doesn’t mean that its theft prevention features are any less important!
If you’re having trouble with your Escape’s anti-theft system, then you’ve come to the right place.
Jerry
, your resident expert on car insurance
, whipped up this guide to get you back on track. On top of that, we’ll even tell you how installing approved anti-theft devices can lower your Ford Escape insurance costs
!Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds
4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversHow to reset the Ford Escape anti-theft system
You have two options when resetting your Escape’s anti-theft system, both of which involve your key fob.
The first method is to insert your key into the ignition and turn it just enough to activate the car’s electrical system without starting the engine.
Leave your key in the ignition for at least two minutes, but no more than 10. If you see the dashboard anti-theft light turn off, then your system has been properly reset. You’re now free to start the car and hit the open road!
The second method is to place your key in the driver’s side door lock and partially turn it, but not enough to actually unlock the door. Leave your key in this position for between 40-60 seconds, then turn it in the opposite direction and repeat the process. After the second interval of 60 seconds, your Escape should have had enough time to recognize your key. You should now be able to get in and start the engine.
If your Escape’s theft prevention system has been triggered and you don’t happen to have your key fob with you, then you’ll probably have to bring it to a dealership so that you can get new keys and have the system disarmed. You could also have the dealership reprogram your PCM (powertrain control module) to deactivate your anti-theft system entirely, but we wouldn’t recommend it.
Is this article helpful so far?
Help us improve our content by rating this article.
What does the anti-theft system on a Ford Escape do?
Newer Ford vehicles—including your Escape—have what’s known as a Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS), so called because it turns on automatically. It passively activates (i.e. without your input) whenever the key is out of the ignition, the car is off, and/or all the doors are closed.
If your PATS system is activated, an alarm will sound and your engine will be completely immobilized in order to prevent the suspected theft of your vehicle. For example, the system can detect a non-coded key trying to start the car or open a door, in which case it will immobilize the engine and prevent the vehicle from starting.
When the theft prevention system is triggered, you will see the red anti-theft light flashing on your dashboard. Don’t freak out if you notice the light while you’re starting your car—it’ll turn on briefly when the ignition switch is on. It should turn off shortly afterward.
For security purposes, Ford makes use of electronic transponder keys, also known as “chip keys.” For a new Escape, the dealership should give you two keys. If you want a third or a spare, though, you’ll have to program it to not set off your anti-theft system.
How to program a new transponder key
To program a new Ford key, you’ll need both the two original keys as well as the new spare. You should be able to buy a spare from either the dealership or a locksmith. If you’ve lost one of the original keys, your Ford dealer should be able to program a new one for you
If you do have both keys, follow these steps to program a new one:
- Insert one of the original keys into the ignition and turn it to the on position. Wait three to 10 seconds.
- Turn the ignition to the off position and remove the key. Wait another three to 10 seconds.
- Repeat the first two steps with the second original key. Wait three to 20 seconds.
- Insert the unsynced spare key, turn it to the on position, and wait for six seconds.
- Remove the key.
Ideally, your new key should now be properly programmed, so feel free to test it out. If you start the engine and see the anti-theft light turn on for three seconds and then switch off, you’ve successfully programmed your new key.
What can trigger the Ford anti-theft system?
Your Escape’s PATS system provides excellent protection from prowling car thieves, but it’s not perfect. False alarms are known to happen, and anything from a loud noise or an accidental bump can set your theft prevention system off. The PATS system might misinterpret these various sounds and contacts as a break-in attempt and disable your engine—leaving you in the lurch and probably very annoyed.
Other possible causes for PATS misfires may include:
- Dead or dying car battery
- Dead or dying key fob battery
- Broken door lock cylinder or door handle
If you simply can’t figure out why your Escape’s anti-theft system keeps engaging, go ahead and take it to a Ford dealership so they can take a closer look. You could also use a diagnostic tool to look for any mechanical failures that could be at fault.
Can the Ford Escape anti-theft system lower your insurance rate?
It absolutely can! Driving a vehicle with good theft prevention features can lower your premium anywhere from 5% to 25%. Plus, given the low cost of parts and Ford’s reliability as a brand, it’s already fairly easy to find
affordable Ford insurance
!Of course, your exact rate will have a lot to do with the specific model of Escape that you’re driving, so try to choose one that has a good blend of practicality, luxury, and safety features. We think the SE trim kitted out with the Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ Package would be a good choice.
Did you find this article helpful?
Your feedback helps us to create content that better serves readers like you.
How to save on Ford Escape insurance
As we’ve established, your Ford Escape is protected by an excellent passive security system, but it’s not infallible. A smart car thief might be able to override or disengage the system, in which case you’ll need
comprehensive insurance coverage
if you want to be able to submit a claim for the damages. Comprehensive coverage might hike up your premium, but the added protection makes it well worth the money. Plus, you might be able to find a sweet deal on the coverage you want by using
Jerry
, the trustworthy insurance broker
that has made shopping for car insurance easier than ever before. If you’re on the hunt for good Ford insurance, just hop on your phone, download the #1-rated Jerry app, and answer a few questions. In 45 seconds or less, Jerry will generate a list of quotes customized for your needs! We work with more than 55 top-tier insurance companies, so you’re bound to find something you like.
Jerry is all about making things easy for our customers, so we’ll never burden you with tiresome phone calls or tedious paperwork. If you find a policy you like, our team of experts can sign you up and even help you cancel your old one.
We saved the best for last—the average Jerry user saves over $800 a year on car insurance!
“When I started shopping for insurance for my new car, the estimates I received were around $150.Jerryfound me full-coverage insurance for $102. This is NOT a joke!” —Auden D.
Jerry sends free alerts to keep your car up-to-date so you can avoid costly repairs
* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score
Get ahead of my car maintenance
* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score
Estimate your repair costs for free with GarageGuard™
Simplify your car maintenance with Jerry.
4.7
We value your privacy
