Code Definition

B1601 — PATS Received Incorrect Key-Code From Ignition Key Transponder

System: Body  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Ford

About B1601

B1601 is a manufacturer-specific body diagnostic trouble code recorded for Ford vehicles. It belongs to the B-prefix family of codes, which covers body, interior, airbag, or comfort-electronics faults.

Scanning & clearing: Body (B) codes are often stored in the body control module, airbag module, or climate module. A basic OBD-II tool usually will not read body codes — an enhanced or OEM-level scan tool is typically required.

B1601 is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The Ford Passive Anti Theft System (PATS) verifies a unique identifier stored in the ignition key transponder against the list of authorised key IDs held in the PATS module before authorising the PCM to start the engine. DTC B1601 sets when the PATS transceiver did receive a valid radio frequency response from a transponder, but the ID code returned does not match any of the keys currently programmed into the module. This is most often caused by use of a transponder key that has not been programmed to that vehicle, replacement of the PATS module or Instrument Cluster without performing a key r...

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