Theft Detected — Vehicle Immobilized
2012-2018 Ford Focus Electric Electric Motor
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
- P0070Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit
- P0071Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
- P0072Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0073Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High
- P0115Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 Circuit
- P0116ECT Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance
- P0117ECT Sensor 1 Circuit Low Input
- P0118ECT Sensor 1 Circuit High Input
- P0119ECT Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent
- P0125Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Closed Loop Fuel Control
P1260 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P1260 mean on a 2012-2018 Ford Focus Electric?
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 Focus Electric?
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 2012-2018 Ford Focus Electric?
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.