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B1602Ford PATS received invalid key

Universal diagnostic code. Below: what it means, common causes, symptoms, and the exact bench-programming fix path.

Common causes

  • Aftermarket key not properly programmed
  • Used PCM installed from donor vehicle (donor's keys are in the table, not yours)
  • PATS table corrupted from battery dropout during programming
  • Replacement transponder chip not paired

Symptoms you'll see

  • Crank-no-start
  • THEFT light flashing
  • Worked yesterday, doesn't today (table corruption scenario)

The fix path

For used-PCM scenarios: Ford PATS Delete ($199) removes the table dependency entirely. For genuine new-key add: dealer can reprogram up to 8 keys via PATS reset procedure ($150-300 dealer).

AML services that fix this

Mail in the affected module, we bench-program, ship back next business day. Flat pricing, return shipping included.

Related diagnostic codes

Not sure which service applies?

Text us your year/make/model + which scanner caught the code — we'll tell you exactly which module to ship and which service to pick.