How effective is the PATS system as an anti-theft device? Do thieves have a way to get around this? I am paranoid about my GT getting stolen and would like to know if this really works well, or if it's just a bunch of hype Ford uses to relax their customers?
The PATS system seems to be a very good deterent to drive-away thefts. Without having a programmed key, the car simply will not start. If you have a remote start, a talented thief might be able to bypass the system but it would still be a time consuming proposition.
No system is totally foolproof but the PATS system adds such a delay to the process that thefts (other than tow truck powered thefts) will be either inconvenient or hazardous to the thieves freedom. Even using the factory scan tool takes at least 10 minutes to just access the Vehicle Security Module, let alone do any reprogramming once you get there....
Just don't have your keys stolen. ;-) Happened to me once... some punk kid drove off with my '97 Cobra. It was found back in one piece, just some hard miles on it. Not too many either.
But, as Jim said, it's a pretty effective device, but nothing is impassable. They can come along with a tow truck and take your car anyway....
JS
Thanks for the info. I guess if someone wants a car bad enough they will find a way to get it. Towing is a perfect example. I feel a little more secure knowing PATS is not a marketing scam. I keep my car locked in my garage at night so I think it'll be safe from punk kids looking for a joyride.
I recall seeing an article that stated that the "accessory" of choice for those bent on working nights is airbag modules. You may want to check and see if your car is equipped with a perimeter alarm.
I'll caution against getting too carried away with any alarms..... there's one car about 4 blocks away that goes into 0dark30 conniptions. If I find the dork that can't seem to hear his own alarm, I will most likely become a guest of Her Majesty.
If you are financially gifted, you may check out an add on alarm that will call your cell phone. I'll caution against hooking up any redundant disabling features, though. Even installing some of the accessories that have received Ma Fords blessing can become frustrating.
Even though I keep mine parked in the garage, I try to always remember to bring the keys in the house. Now I know that some people do this routinely, but to me it was something I had to train myself to do. That way when we leave the house I either have the key with me or it is locked in the safe. One more thing for the potential bad guys to scratch their heads over.
Kate
Not bad, as far as factory systems go.
A flat bed tow truck.
Your best bet for securing your Mustang is a sturdy garage, With a mean dog inside.
If that isn't an option, take a look at LoJack. It won't stop them from taking your car (nothing will, if they're determined), but it will help you get it back quickly.
I've heard it works well, but if they really want your car, they'll tow it. try looking into a pager alarm. It will page you on the little remote if the alarm goes off. Only limitation is that you have to be within half a mile or so for the pager to be reached. There are other systems out that can call your cellphone. Remove NO-SPAM from email address when replying
Entering into the unknown, V'ger seeks information used to maintain his Vintage Burgundy 1965 Ford Mustang 2+2 w/289 ci 4v oem A Code V8, C4 Trans,
16x8" Vintage 40 wheels, with BF Goodrich gForce T/A 225/50ZR16 tires, American Racing "Mustang" Centercaps, and a whole lot of other stuff; )It wasn't that many years ago that I rarely took the keys out of my vehicle (small town, nice neighbours) and never locked my house.... the only problem was a family friend who routinely left a note in my fridge "I'm holding your beer for ransom...". I always paid him back in kind 8^)
It's a sad statement on society when we learn that locks and alarms can only ever keep honest people honest.
Entering into the unknown, V'ger seeks information used to maintain his Vintage Burgundy 1965 Ford Mustang 2+2 w/289 ci 4v oem A Code V8, C4 Trans,
16x8" Vintage 40 wheels, with BF Goodrich gForce T/A 225/50ZR16 tires, American Racing "Mustang" Centercaps, and a whole lot of other stuff; )
As long as the insurance companies do not re-imburse lojack (or hive me a discount big enough to earn back the lo=jack within the timeframe I have the car), I won't install it.
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Entering into the unknown, V'ger seeks information used to maintain his Vintage Burgundy 1965 Ford Mustang 2+2 w/289 ci 4v oem A Code V8, C4 Trans,
16x8" Vintage 40 wheels, with BF Goodrich gForce T/A 225/50ZR16 tires, American Racing "Mustang" Centercaps, and a whole lot of other stuff; )hehe, good ideas ! I agree, there' a lot you can do yourself. I recently had a cop give us a lecture at work about car theft. They walked around for a little bit and noticed dozens of cars with the windows cracked open a bit , dozens of cars that left valuables right in sight, even a car with the door open !
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