AutoCodes – Mercury – B1600 Mercury

B1600 Mercury Code - PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received

Quick Answer

The Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) transceiver communicates with the PATS key. Common causes include Faulty Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) key, Faulty PATS transceiver, Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: B1600 Mercury indicates PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) key, Faulty PATS transceiver, Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 2,139

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 02, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code B1600 Mercury Description

The Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) transceiver communicates with the PATS key. During each vehicle start sequence, the PATS transceiver reads the pats key identification code and sends the data to the instrument cluster. The control functions are contained in the instrument cluster. The instrument cluster carries out all of the PATS functions such as receiving the identification code from the PATS key and sending a message to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which controls the engine enable. The instrument cluster initiates the key interrogation sequence when the key is turned to the ON or Start position.

OBDII Code B1600 Mercury - PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received - AutoCodes.com — B1600 Mercury Code - PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1600 Mercury?

Faulty Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) key
Faulty PATS transceiver
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1600 Mercury?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1600 Mercury code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B1600 Mercury code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1600 Mercury code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1600 Mercury code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1600 Mercury Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1600 on a Mercury related to PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received?

- Common symptoms include the engine not starting, the engine starting and then immediately stalling, and the security light flashing rapidly on the dashboard.

2. What can cause the PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received error (B1600) on a Mercury vehicle?

- Possible causes include a faulty transponder key, a defective transceiver in the ignition lock cylinder, a damaged antenna ring around the ignition lock, or a communication issue within the PATS system.

3. How can I diagnose the B1600 code on my Mercury with PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received?

- A diagnostic scanner capable of reading manufacturer-specific codes is needed to pinpoint the exact issue within the PATS system. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis.

4. Can I fix the B1600 code related to PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received on my Mercury at home?

- DIY repair is possible in some cases, such as reprogramming the transponder key or checking for loose connections. However, more complex issues may require professional diagnosis and repair.

5. Are there any common repair tips for resolving the PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received error (B1600) on a Mercury?

- Common repair tips include checking for loose wiring connections, ensuring the transponder key is functioning correctly, and inspecting the antenna ring for damage or corrosion.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my Mercury with the B1600 code related to PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this error code, as it can lead to potential starting or stalling issues, leaving you stranded. It is best to address the problem promptly.

7. Can a dead battery cause the B1600 code related to PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received on a Mercury?

- A dead or weak battery can sometimes trigger the B1600 code, as it may affect the communication between the transponder key and the PATS system. Ensure your battery is in good condition before further diagnosis.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received error (B1600) on a Mercury at a dealership or repair shop?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for parts and labor, including diagnostic fees.

9. Will resetting the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) clear the B1600 code related to PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received on a Mercury?

- Resetting the PCM may temporarily clear the code, but it is unlikely to resolve the underlying issue causing the error. It is best to diagnose and address the root cause of the problem.

10. Can aftermarket key fobs or transponder keys cause the B1600 code related to PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Not Received on a Mercury?

- Using aftermarket key fobs or transponder keys that are not programmed correctly or are incompatible with the PATS system can potentially trigger the B1600 code. It is advisable to use OEM or properly programmed keys.