Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Starting System
This vehicle is equipped with a PATS that disables the engine from starting if an unprogrammed PATS key is used or an invalid PCM ID is received. The PATS is controlled by the BCM. If there is a PATS concern that disables the engine, the IPC displays the corresponding message in the message center. Refer to: PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS) - VEHICLES WITH: KEYLESS VEHICLE SYSTEM
The BCM controls the ignition modes and, in conjunction with the PCM, the starting system.
During a start event, when the engine start/stop switch is pressed at the same time as the brake pedal, the PCM and BCM receive a request to start the engine. The PCM recognizes the correct inputs from the BCM and TR sensor and provides voltage and ground to energize the starter relay coil and close the starter relay contacts. The starter relay contacts close, providing voltage to the starter solenoid, allowing the starter motor to crank the engine. The PCM disengages the starter motor once an engine RPM threshold is reached, a set crank time is exceeded, or the start/stop button is pressed indicating an engine shutdown.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.