00 Taurus Started and now Won't, Code B1601

[jtquad]

We jumped our 2000 Taurus this morning and drove it. Once home we parked it and just went to get in it and it will not start. The car wont even turn over. We are getting a B1601 code. We tried both keys that we have for the vehicle and neither are working. We cleared the code and it comes right back on instantly. Does anyone have this issue or anything similar? We need get our car started. Thanks - JT

[03impala9c1]

B1601
Ford: At some time since last clear a (PATS) key used was not programmed for the module.

did you guys try to start the vehicle with a spare key you had laying around? I'm not sure how to make this one go away but the code definition may help others to help you!

[jtquad]

AS far as we know, no other Key besides the ones for this car was ever used - JT

[03impala9c1]

it might not help any but iwould try clearing the code and trying a different key other than the one you just tried... just for kicks and grins...

[jtquad]

Just tried that and nothing still - JT

[03impala9c1]

wondering if maybe when you jumped the car, it knocked something out of comunication between the PATS module and the PCM...?

B1601: Unprogrammed PATS key. There is no issue with the PATS key itself, but must be programmed into the PATS memory (unless maximum number of keys already programmed). Follow Spare Key Programming Procedure from the chart. No parts should need to be replaced for this code.

If your vechile would need to be reprogrammed, you would have to take it somewhere with an ngs tester/programmer (which usually only a dealership would have) but iwouldnt jump to that conclusion yet...

[03impala9c1]

have you checked all of your fuses? locate the fuse for your pats and ecu for sure and check those

[03impala9c1]

This does not always work without the factory scan tool so if it doesn't, you have no choice but go to the dealer.

NOTE:

• This procedure only works if two or more programmed ignition keys are available. If two keys are not available. For additional information, refer to Key Programming Using Diagnostic Equipment.
• PID SPARE KY must be enabled for this procedure to operate. If this PID is not enabled, refer to Anti-Theft Security Access then select SPARE KY Programming Switch; Enabled.
• If the programming procedure is successful, the new key(s) will start the vehicle and the anti-theft indicator will illuminate for approximately three seconds .
• If the programming procedure is not successful, the new key(s) will not start the engine. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM ) disables the engine for 20 seconds every time DTC B1601 is set. The ignition must remain in the RUN position for at least 20 seconds before an attempt is made to start the engine with any encoded ignition key. Check the PCM PID ANTISCAN for this unprogrammed key time out status. The anti-theft indicator will flash. If the programming procedure was not successful leave the ignition switch in the RUN position for at least 30 seconds, repeat the Key Programming procedure from Step I. If the failure repeats, refer to Diagnostic and Testing to review DTCs and carry out Pinpoint Tests.
• A maximum of eight ignition keys can be programmed to a passive anti-theft system (PATS) equipped vehicle.
• If the steps are not carried out as outlined, the programming procedure will end.
• Ignition keys must have correct mechanical key cut for the vehicle and must be a PATS encoded key.

1. Insert first programmed key into ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from the RUN position to the OFF Position (maintain ignition switch in the RUN position for one second ).
2. Turn ignition switch to the OFF position and remove the first key from the ignition lock cylinder.
3. Within five seconds of turning the ignition switch to the OFF position, insert the second programmed ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from the OFF position to the RUN position (maintain the ignition switch in the RUN position for one second ).
4. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and remove the second key from the ignition lock cylinder.
5. Within ten seconds of turning the ignition switch to the OFF position, insert the unprogrammed ignition key (new key) into the ignition lock cylinder and turn the ignition switch from the OFF position to the RUN position (maintain the ignition switch in the RUN position for one second ).
6. If it is desired to program additional key(s), repeat the applicable key programming procedure from step 1.

[jtquad]

Thanks a ton, i called ford and they are reprogramming car and keys for free - JT

[03impala9c1]

no problem! glad to help!

[tripletdaddy]

Nice dealership! Where is it so I can get such fantastic service!

On a more serious note. I just find it odd that you were able to jump start the car just fine, drive it, turn it off and later you lose the use of your keys. If anything, I would have thought you would have lost the use of your keys when you jump started your car, because that is when I would have thought the PCM would have had insufficient power to maintain its memory. For as common weak batteries, jump starting, battery disconnects and like occurr, I would have thought that we would be having posts coming out of places we wouldn't even want to talk about on this problem. Point is, you need to be sure you don't have a repeat of your dead battery and PCM memory wiped. Test the battery, test alternator, wiring from the battery to fuse boxes, etc., figure out whatever caused it to fix it, unless of course it's one of the loose nuts in your van, perhaps in the driver's seat. I and more so you would hate to have to go through that twice.