You can now program your own PATS keys without needing to visit the dealer, even if you don’t have two working keys. Here’s what you’ll need:
An ELM327/GD101 interface for the OBD2 port.
A Windows laptop with Forscan installed. Download it HERE.
At least two PATS keys that are cut to work in your ignition cylinder.
Before starting, make sure to register Forscan with an extended license. You can get a free 2-month license by following the instructions HERE.
For detailed instructions on PATS programming, check HERE, but here’s a simplified version of the process:
Insert a key and turn it to the Run position. Connect the ELM327/GD101 unit to the OBD2 port, and link it to the laptop via Bluetooth (pair first, then select the device in Forscan) or USB cable.
Open Forscan and connect to your vehicle. If everything’s set up correctly, you’ll see a list of PCM modules that are connected through the engine computer.
Click the wrench icon, then find the PATS programming option in the Service procedures. Forscan might ask you to wait 10-12 minutes for timed access, or it will guide you through an incode/outcode procedure. For incode details, follow the instructions linked above.
Once you have access, follow the menu to erase all existing keys. Then, when prompted, program each of your PATS keys. For each key, remove the current key, wait 10 seconds, insert the next key, and wait for a three-second count. Repeat for all keys. Once finished, press OK to complete the process and close Forscan.