B1600 on 1997-2004 Ford F-150 (XL, XLT, Lariat, FX4, King Ranch) — PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $100-$500 repair
Most Reported On
B1600 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received.” A Ford (also Lincoln/Mercury and some Mazda) body code for the PATS passive anti-theft system. The PATS module received no transponder signal at all from the ignition key during the start sequence — either the key has no working chip, or the antenna/transceiver ring around the ignition lock cylinder never picked it up. PATS disables fuel and spark (not the starter), so the engine cranks normally but will not start or will start and immediately stall, and the theft/security light stays on or flashes rapidly. This code is most commonly reported on 1997-2004 Ford F-150 (XL, XLT, Lariat, FX4, King Ranch), with repair costs ranging from $100 to $500.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 1 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
B1600 does not use the standard P/B/C/U prefix. It may be a manufacturer-specific code, so verify that a scanner supports your exact year, model and module before buying.
FAQ
What does B1600 mean?
B1600 stands for "PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received." A Ford (also Lincoln/Mercury and some Mazda) body code for the PATS passive anti-theft system. The PATS module received no transponder signal at all from the ignition key during the start sequence — either the key has no working chip, or the antenna/transceiver ring around the ignition lock cylinder never picked it up. PATS disables fuel and spark (not the starter), so the engine cranks normally but will not start or will start and immediately stall, and the theft/security light stays on or flashes rapidly.
What are the most common causes of B1600?
The most common causes of B1600 are: Damaged or dead transponder chip inside the key (the single most common cause), Using a non-transponder, aftermarket, or unprogrammed key, or a physically damaged key head, Faulty or unplugged transceiver antenna ring at the ignition lock cylinder, Damaged wiring or a poor connection between the antenna ring and the PATS module/instrument cluster, Interference from a second transponder key or metal object on the same keyring, Failed PATS module / instrument cluster. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix B1600?
Repair costs for B1600 range from $100 to $500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by B1600?
Au7o has documented B1600 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Ford.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.