Principles of Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Lincoln Town Car. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When the ignition switch is turned to the START position and the vehicle is in the NEUTRAL or PARK position, the starter relay switches power to the starter solenoid causing the starter motor to engage, turning the engine at a speed fast enough to permit the engine to start.
Starting System - Anti-Theft Intervention
The starting system is electronically controlled by the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS). PATS is controlled by the PCM. PATS recognizes the correct electronically coded ignition key and signals the PCM to provide a ground for the starter relay. The energized relay provides voltage to the starter solenoid, thereby allowing the starter motor to activate.