Ok I recently bought a 2001 2.5L ranger. It came with a single chip key. Ive done all the research on how to program them and such and have decided I am either gonna program them myself (Yes I am aware of the standard 2 key requirement) or tape this one under the dash.

Well today I went down and had a basic key made and it started the truck just fine. (Furthest I had the chipped key was in the bed but I was under the impression the ranges was a couple inches at best.) Do I have a non chipped truck or should I be looking closely under my dash for a spare chip key? I have also never seen a theft light on the dash.

__________________
2001 2wd 2.5L automatic standard cab.

The only non-pats trucks are generally Fleet trucks. Leave your chip key in your house and see if it starts. The PATS system will usually only sense the chip when under the column.

Does your truck have power options (PW, PDL, PM)?

Your PATS key should be like this:


Non-PATS:

I have a picture of my key in the first post. It does not look like either of those.

I do not have cruise, power windows or locks or morrors.

__________________
2001 2wd 2.5L automatic standard cab.

That is a PATS key, but that means nothing. My 2006 used the same keys yet was a fleet vehicle without PATS. if you give your VIN to a dealer they should be able to tell you if you have a fleet vehicle or not.

__________________
Baby Girl: 2006 White Ranger XL with many memories. R.I.P. 1/26/15

===============
Didn't see the link, sorry. Yes, they started the one like you have in 00. I thought is was 02.

All PATS truck have chip keys! Most of your fleet vehicles don't have PATS. So Keal, yours is a rarity or someone added PATS.

Birdman, If you want to give me your last 8 of the VIN, I can tell ya what it had from the factory. I've worked in the Parts Dept of a Ford Dealership since 02.