What does blinking dash word "Theft" mean?

[Kate Andreozzi]

Always wondered what the blinking red "Theft" word really means after I turn my truck off. What are the "theft" capabilities? My truck was recently broken into and no alarm sounded, yet my dashboard blinks the work "Theft".



Anyone know what this means? I have a 2005 XLT. Thanks for any input!

 

[Jim Sacco]

I'm not sure if it's the same.. but my car has the same thing. It's a passive system that simply disables the radio if it's removed. The light is a deterrent to would be thieves, that the radio will not work if they take it. Dealers have the codes to reactivate them if they accidentally trip. Mine on my truck still flashes, but I don't have the OEM radio any longer

 

[Chase Straw]

I believe it has to do with the PATS system in the key.

 

[swshawaii]

Anti theft deterrent on the instrument panel.



Hopefully the potential thief is familiar with PATS

before attempting to destroy your ignition column. :fire:

 

[Tom Schindler]

Chase and swshawaii are correct. It has nothing to do with an alarm or the radio. It has everything to do with the anti-theft ignition system.



If the key code doesn't match those programed to the vehicle, it will not start.





Tom