Principles of Operation - Without Intelligent Access (IA)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Lincoln MKX and 2014 Ford Edge. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) that disables the engine if an unprogrammed PATS key is used or an invalid PCM ID is received. PATS is controlled by the Body Control Module (BCM). If the PATS disables the engine from starting, the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) displays "STARTING SYSTEM FAULT" in the message center. Refer to ANTI THEFT - PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS) to diagnose a PATS concern.

The starting system is electronically controlled by the PCM . The PCM receives the following inputs:

Ignition switch request to start the engine.
Transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL signal from the Transmission Range (TR) sensor
Run/start relay voltage.
PATS enable status

When the PCM receives the correct inputs, voltage and ground is supplied to the starter relay coil. The starter relay coil is energized causing the relay contacts to close providing voltage to the starter solenoid, allowing the starter motor to crank the engine. The PCM disengages the starter once an engine rpm threshold is reached, a set crank time is exceeded or the ignition is turned OFF.