Test C: Unprogrammed Encoded Ignition Key (DTC B1601)

NOTE: Large metallic objects, a second PATS ignition key, or devices such as electronic credit cards on the same key ring may cause vehicle starting problem and possibly set this code. Ensure customers encoded ignition key is an approved Ford encoded ignition key. Encoded keys from Rotunda, Ilco, and Strattec are also approved keys.

Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Connect New Generation Star (NGS) tester. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Perform PCM self-test. Retrieve and record continuous DTCs. Clear continuous DTCs. If DTC B1601 is retrieved, go to next step. If DTC B1601 is not retrieved, system is operating properly. Check all encoded ignition keys, by starting vehicle, to verify all encoded ignition keys are programmed.
Using NGS tester, monitor PCM PID NUMKEYS. If PID does not indicate 8 keys, go to next step. If PID indicates 8 keys, erase and reprogram key codes and program 2 keys. See ERASE ALL KEYS & PROGRAM 2 KEYS under PROGRAMMING. Clear DTCs and repeat PCM self-test.
Verify there are at least 2 programmed encoded ignition keys available with vehicle. If at least 2 programmed encoded ignition keys are available with vehicle, go to next step. If at least 2 programmed encoded ignition keys are not available with vehicle, obtain a NEW encoded ignition key. Program encoded ignition keys. See ERASE ALL KEYS & PROGRAM 2 KEYS under PROGRAMMING and go to step 5 .
Using NGS tester, monitor PCM PID SPARE_KY. If PID indicates ENABLE, program ignition key then go to next step. See USING 2 PROGRAMMED KEYS under PROGRAMMING. If PID indicates DISABLE, See SPARE KEY PROGRAMMING SWITCH under PROGRAMMING. Clear DTCs and repeat PCM self-test.
Using first encoded ignition key, turn ignition switch to RUN position, for 3 seconds. Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Using second encoded ignition key, turn ignition switch to RUN position, for 3 seconds. Attempt to start vehicle using second encoded ignition key. If vehicle does not start, go to next step. If vehicle starts, system is operating properly. If additional encoded ignition keys are needed, see USING 2 PROGRAMMED KEYS under PROGRAMMING.
Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Connect NGS tester to DLC. Perform PCM self-test. Retrieve and record continuous DTCs. Clear continuous DTCs. If DTC B1601 is retrieved, replace PCM. Reprogram encoded ignition keys. See ERASE ALL KEYS & PROGRAM 2 KEYS . If DTC B1601 is not retrieved, system is operating properly. If any other DTCs are retrieved, perform appropriate DTC test. See POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) DTC INDEX table under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM.