2002 ford explorer anti theft light damaged ignition wires

check for worn --damaged key-- ignition cylinder --ignition switch

Paul, links below.
ford explorer 2002 showing theft light and will not start how do you...

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https://ca.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080820122447AAVurnC

Anti THEFT cuts off fuel pump and the ignition module. That is what it is for. The theft light on the dash should be on too. Something tripped the anti-theft system Try resetting the anti-theft module by locking and unlocking the drivers door with the key.

Is the red light on the top center of the dash pad flashing fast when trying to start ? The engine doesn't turn over ?
Anti-theft system problem !
PATS uses a visual theft indicator. This indicator will prove out for three seconds when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START under normal operation. If there is a PATS problem, this indicator will either flash rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition switch is turned to RUN or START. PATS also "blips" the theft indicator every two seconds at ignition OFF to act as a visual theft deterrent.
PATS differs from the perimeter anti-theft system in that PATS enables and disables the engine from starting. If equipped, the perimeter anti-theft system protects the perimeter of the vehicle (doors, hood and trunk) and sounds an alarm.
The PATS is not compatible with aftermarket remote start systems, which allow the vehicle to be started from outside the vehicle. These systems may reduce the vehicle security level, and also may cause no-start issues. Remote start systems must be removed before investigation of PATS-related No Start issues.

Call the dealer

The theft icon is a visual indication that something in the car's antitheft system is failing. In most GM cars and trucks there is a hidden system that most people are unaware even exists. From the moment you put your key in the ignition, there begins a constant line of communication between your key's security chip or transponder, to the ignition's lock cylinder, and then to the car's TDM (Theft Deterrent Module). These 3 parts are in CONSTANT communication. If the key is in the ignition, then these parts are sending signals to each other. The security light illuminates when that signal gets broken, even just for a second. When the signal breaks, the car misinterprets this as an attempt at theft and goes into antitheft mode. The car thinks its being stolen or hotwired because it is not getting that signal from YOUR specific key. This is why the security light turns on and shuts down your vehicle. This link explains it pretty well.
http://vatspasslockpasskeysecurityhelp.yolasite.com/

Its a good possibility that the Anti-theft is interferring with the circuit. If you have an extra ignition key, use that in case the password chip in your regular FOB has detriorated.

There is a brake sensor which is on the upper brake pedal. It interlocks with the starter to prevent starting without having your foot on the brake pedal. Check your brake lights for operation. If the brake lights stay dark with your foot on the pedal, the switch is broke or knocked out of position. A common problem.

Next, there are small wires for the starter solenoid. You can use a test light on one removed wire and ground the test light to the vehicle, the other end in the small wire. Turn the keyswitch to start, with brake pedal pressed and see if it lights up. If it does light up, the starter solenoid may be bad.

Battery level. Ford Anti-theft and some say Battery-saver, can cause both starting and charging problems. A fully charged battery can be at 13.2V- 13.6V. When Ford systems detect low voltage it can activate the Anti-theft, battery-saver, and even disconnect the charging system to allow the battery to completely drain. In some cases the Anti-theft drops starter voltage to around 7V so the starter will not spin. Have the battery tested.

I know of 2004 trucks that were jump started and showed charging, then after 5-10 minutes they lost the charging system. Some people lost the charging system at 70MPH and drove until they stalled. All because of the automatic features built into the trucks. A new battery fixed the problem. Your problem could stem from this.

you could pull the fuse disabling th anti theft totally.. not sure that would work though

if you are sure all wires are installed correctly check fuses... also you would have to match the ignition key start pellet to the anti theft computer. your old key might not be seen as the correct key by the system.

Heres the skinny....the wire around the ignition switch is actually an antennea for your anti theft transponder system. the other two wires work in conjuction with the anti theft system in that it supplies power to the ignition switch itself when your key is inserted into the ignition. Inside your key is a chip which emits a certain frequency known only to your vehicle.....when this key is near the ignition switch (ie going to start the car) the antenna senses the frequency and the anti theft system powers down and powers up the ignition so you can start your vehicle. Thanks for using fixya! Any more questions shoot me a email!

Sincerely,

JC