Newbie - Just bought fairly clean Mazda that was last registered 7 years ago. Just been sitting and got good deal. Now I know why.
can only get it start once out of 20-30 tries. Most time just flashes Theft fast. Read posts and did battery disconnect reset, cycling key procedure, switching keys, cleaning fuses, cable connections on transceiver, PATS module, removing transceiver and taping spare key to it away from ign key.
Ready to see if someone can do delete config to ECM.
truck is 2003 B3000 2nd dual sport model with remote locks power windows.
thanks.

 

Welcome to the forum

First thing is to see WHY the THEFT light is flashing, which is very easy
Turn on the key do not try to start engine
If theft light is flashing then wait 45-60 seconds(KEY ON) and it will start to Flash a 2 digit code number, 11 to 16
11 Transceiver [transponder coil] not connected, or there is no power to it.
12 Transceiver internal fault.
13 No Key/no PATS key has been used to turn the ignition switch.
14 Incomplete key code received.
15 Invalid key code received.
16 CAN communications error.

Let us know what the code is
If its 11 or 12 then replace transceiver, its the black plastic ring around the key slot, common failure, no reprogramming needed

If its 13, 14 or 15 you can have a Locksmith come to the vehicle and reprogram PATS with a laptop, he can use the keys you have, if they are working PATS keys or he can cut and program new keys

16 can mean someone has tried to swap in a new computer

No, there is no PATS delete, well not quite true, check with local Speed Shops or places the can Dyno Tune vehicles they usually know local "programmers" that can load new software on to engine computers but price is usually $400+

And just a "heads up"
If you try to start the engine with THEFT light flashing 4 times in a row, then PATS LOCKS DOWN the computer for 90minutes, you can unhook the battery, pull out the computer and run around the block with it, lol, but you still have to wait the 90min to try again, and it will lock down again after 4 more tries

 

Update. Got a replacement transceiver from a upullit. Installed and connected battery. Started on first try and no theft flashing. Thanks for info. I now feel better since I understand more how pats works. I can move on to solve rough idle and tune up.

 

That is why we are lucky to have RonD here. He knows that technical stuff.