Theft Detected — Vehicle Immobilized
2000-2003 Ford Excursion 7.3L V8 Power Stroke Diesel
Description
The PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) has detected a potential theft condition and has immobilized the engine. The PCM will not enable fuel injection or ignition until proper authentication is received from a programmed key. Common on Ford F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Fusion, and E-Series.
Symptoms
- Engine cranks but will not start
- Engine starts then immediately shuts off
- Security/theft light flashing on dashboard
- Check Engine Light
Common Causes
- Key not programmed to vehicle
- Faulty transponder chip in key
- Malfunctioning PATS transceiver module
- Corrupted PCM or instrument cluster security codes
- Low battery voltage during start
- Recent battery replacement or jump-start
- Aftermarket remote start system interference
- New PCM or instrument cluster installed without programming
Diagnostic Steps
- Try a second programmed key — if it works, first key is faulty
- Check NUMKEYS PID in PATS data (needs at least 2 keys programmed)
- Observe PATS indicator light (on for 3 sec = normal; flashing = fault)
- Check battery voltage (low voltage can cause false trigger)
- Inspect steering column PATS transceiver for damage
- Check for aftermarket remote start system interference
Repair Notes
Try second key first. Reprogram keys using two-key procedure. If transceiver or PCM is faulty, both PCM and instrument cluster may need replacement and reprogramming together. Dealer-grade scan tool typically required.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P1260 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P1260 mean on a 2000-2003 Ford Excursion?
P1260 stands for "Theft Detected — Vehicle Immobilized". The PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) has detected a potential theft condition and has immobilized the engine. The PCM will not enable fuel injection or ignition until proper authentication is received from a programmed key. Common on Ford F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Fusion, and E-Series.
What are the symptoms of P1260 on a Ford Excursion?
Common symptoms of P1260 include: Engine cranks but will not start, Engine starts then immediately shuts off, Security/theft light flashing on dashboard, Check Engine Light.
What causes P1260 on a 2000-2003 Ford Excursion?
Common causes of P1260 include: Key not programmed to vehicle, Faulty transponder chip in key, Malfunctioning PATS transceiver module, Corrupted PCM or instrument cluster security codes, Low battery voltage during start, Recent battery replacement or jump-start, Aftermarket remote start system interference, New PCM or instrument cluster installed without programming.