FORD PATS Code List: Unlocking the Secrets of Ford’s Anti-Theft System

The Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) is a security feature implemented by Ford in their vehicles. It is designed to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle by disabling the engine’s fuel system. Understanding PATS fault codes is important for vehicle owners and technicians as it helps diagnose issues with the PATS system and allows for proper troubleshooting and repair.

How PATS Fault Codes Work

PATS fault codes are generated and stored in the vehicle’s onboard computer (PCM). These fault codes are triggered when the PATS system detects a problem with the key, ignition, transceiver, antenna, module, software, or communication. The fault codes are stored in the PCM’s memory and can be retrieved using a diagnostic scan tool.

PATS fault codes serve as a starting point for diagnosing issues with the system. They provide information about the specific problem that has been detected, allowing technicians to focus their efforts on the relevant components and systems.

Common PATS Fault Codes

There are several commonly encountered PATS fault codes that Ford vehicle owners may come across. Each fault code is associated with a specific issue and has potential causes and solutions.

B1234 – Engine Disabled

This fault code indicates that the engine has been disabled by the PATS system. This can occur if the system detects an invalid key or if there is a fault with the key, ignition, or transceiver. To resolve this issue, check the key for any damage or try using a different key. If the problem persists, a technician may need to inspect the ignition system and transceiver for faults.

P1260 – Theft Detected / Vehicle Immobilized

This fault code indicates that the PATS system has detected a potential theft and has immobilized the vehicle. This can occur if there is a communication issue between the PCM and the PATS system or if an incorrect or unauthorized key is detected. To resolve this issue, check the key for any damage or try using a different key. If the problem persists, a technician may need to inspect the communication system between the PCM and the PATS system.

U1900 – CAN Communication Bus Fault

This fault code indicates a communication problem between the PCM and other modules on the vehicle’s CAN network. This can occur if there is a wiring issue, a faulty module, or a problem with the PCM. To resolve this issue, a technician will need to inspect and test the wiring and modules connected to the CAN network, as well as check for any PCM software updates that may be available.

C1145 – Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Input Circuit Failure

This fault code indicates a problem with the right front wheel speed sensor’s circuit. This can be caused by a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or a problem with the ABS module. To resolve this issue, a technician will need to inspect the right front wheel speed sensor and its wiring for any damage or faults, and replace any faulty components as necessary.

Obtaining Incode for PATS Fault Code

In order to troubleshoot and resolve certain PATS fault codes, an Incode is required. The Incode is a unique code that is specific to the vehicle and the fault code being generated. It is used to program new keys or troubleshoot issues with existing keys.

There are various websites and services that provide Incode information for Ford vehicles. One such service is Ford ETIS (Electronic Technical Information System), which can be accessed online. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain the Incode using Ford ETIS:

1. Visit the Ford ETIS website
2. Enter the required vehicle information, including the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
3. Select the “Security” option from the menu
4. Follow the prompts to obtain the Incode for the specific PATS fault code

Once the Incode is obtained, it can be used in conjunction with specialized programming equipment to program new keys or troubleshoot existing key-related issues.

Flashing PATS Fault Codes

Some Ford vehicles utilize a flashing method to display PATS fault codes. This involves the use of the vehicle’s key and requires specific steps to interpret the flashed fault code.

The flashing method involves turning the ignition key on and off in a specific pattern, which will cause the PATS system to flash fault codes using the vehicle’s indicators (such as the Check Engine Light or an LED on the instrument cluster).

Each digit in a flashed fault code represents a specific fault, and the total number of flashes indicates the number of faults. For example, a fault code of two flashes followed by a pause, then three more flashes, would indicate two faults.

It is important to consult the vehicle’s manual or a reliable source for the specific flashing sequence and its corresponding fault codes.

Non-Ford Keys and PATS Fault Codes

Attaching non-Ford keys to the PATS system can have unintended consequences and trigger PATS fault codes. The PATS system is designed to recognize and accept only authorized Ford keys.

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1602 is one such code that is triggered when a non-Ford key is detected. It indicates that an unauthorized key has been used in the ignition. This can be caused by using a duplicate key or a key from a different vehicle.

Using non-Ford keys can cause PATS fault codes to be triggered, potentially immobilizing the vehicle or causing other issues. To resolve this issue, it is important to use only authorized Ford keys. If a fault code is triggered, it may be necessary to seek professional help to reprogram or replace the keys.

Comprehensive List of Ford PATS Fault Codes

In addition to the common PATS fault codes mentioned earlier, there are numerous other fault codes that may be encountered in Ford vehicles. These fault codes are categorized based on the first letter of the code.

B Codes – Transceiver and Antenna Issues

The B codes are related to transceiver and antenna issues in the PATS system. These codes indicate problems with the communication between the key and the vehicle’s transceiver and antenna. Potential causes of B codes include faulty transceivers, damaged antennas, or wiring issues.

Some examples of B codes include:

• B1213 – Fault in Communication with Transceiver
• B1600 – PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received
• B1681 – Transceiver Signal Not Detected

Potential solutions for these B codes may include inspecting and repairing the wiring, replacing faulty components, or reprogramming the transceiver and key.

P Codes – Key and Ignition Issues

The P codes are related to key and ignition issues in the PATS system. These codes indicate problems with the key, ignition switch, or related components. Potential causes of P codes include faulty keys, damaged ignition switches, or wiring issues.

Some examples of P codes include:

• P1260 – Theft Detected / Vehicle Immobilized
• P1602 – PATS Received Incorrect Key-Code From Ignition Key Transponder
• P1693 – Indicates the PCM and PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) has not received an “enable” signal from the fuel enable circuit.

Potential solutions for these P codes may include inspecting and repairing the key, ignition switch, or related wiring, as well as reprogramming the PATS system and keys.

U Codes – Communication and Connection Issues

The U codes are related to communication and connection issues in the PATS system. These codes indicate problems with the communication between the PCM and other modules or devices on the vehicle. Potential causes of U codes include wiring issues, faulty modules, or software errors.

Some examples of U codes include:

• U0131 – Lost Communication With Power Steering Control Module
• U1900 – CAN Communication Bus Fault
• U2023 – Fault Received From External Node

Potential solutions for these U codes may include inspecting and repairing the wiring, replacing faulty modules, or updating the PCM software.

C Codes – Module and Software Issues

The C codes are related to module and software issues in the PATS system. These codes indicate problems with specific modules or software within the vehicle’s network. Potential causes of C codes include faulty modules, software errors, or wiring issues.

Some examples of C codes include:

• C1145 – Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Input Circuit Failure
• C1472 – Module Configuration Failure
• C1728 – Transfer Case Unable to Transition Between 2H and 4H

Potential solutions for these C codes may include inspecting and repairing the relevant modules, updating the software, or checking for any technical service bulletins related to the specific code.

Misc. Codes – Miscellaneous PATS Faults

The Misc. codes category includes miscellaneous fault codes that do not fit in the other categories. These codes may indicate less common or less specific issues with the PATS system. Potential causes and solutions for these miscellaneous fault codes vary and may require further diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Some examples of miscellaneous fault codes include:

• U9999 – Reserved
• P0605 – Internal Control Module Read Only Memory (ROM) Error
• B2292 – Restraint System Pre-Tensioner Fault

It is important to consult reliable sources or seek professional assistance when diagnosing and troubleshooting miscellaneous fault codes.

In conclusion, understanding PATS fault codes is crucial for diagnosing and troubleshooting issues with the system. PATS fault codes provide valuable information about the specific problem that has been detected, allowing technicians to focus their efforts on the relevant components and systems.

By following the steps outlined in this article, vehicle owners and technicians can obtain Incodes for specific PATS fault codes, interpret flashed fault codes, and understand the impact of non-Ford keys on the system.

However, it is important to remember that troubleshooting and repairing the PATS system can be complex and may require specialized knowledge and equipment. If in doubt or unable to resolve the issue, it is always recommended to seek professional help to ensure the problem is diagnosed and repaired correctly.