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.
2009 Mazda Tribute 4WD L4-2.5LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Pinpoint Test 3: DTC B1601 - PATS Received Incorrect Key-Code From Ignition Key Transponder
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PINPOINT TEST 3: DTC B1601 - PATS RECEIVED INCORRECT KEY-CODE FROM IGNITION KEY TRANSPONDER
Normal Operation
During each vehicle start sequence, the passive anti-theft system (PATS) transceiver reads the PATS key identification code and sends the data to the instrument cluster (IC).
- DTC B1601 (PATS Received Incorrect Key-Code From Ignition Key Transponder) - sets when there is an unprogrammed PATS key. The concern is not with the PATS key itself, but the key must be programmed into the PATS memory (unless the maximum number of keys are already programmed).
Possible Causes
- PATS key
- IC
Diagnostic Procedure
NOTE:Large metallic objects, electronic devices on the key ring that can be used to purchase gasoline or similar items, or a second key on the same key ring as the PATS key may cause a vehicle starting concern and record DTCs under certain conditions. If a fault cannot be identified, examine the customer key ring for such objects or devices. If present, inform the customer that they need to keep these objects from touching the PATS key while starting the engine. These objects and devices cannot damage the PATS key, but can cause a momentary concern if they are too close to the key during engine start. If a concern occurs, turn the ignition switch off and restart the engine with all other objects on the key ring held away from the ignition key. Check to make sure the PATS key used by the customer is an approved PATS key.
NOTE:Only 8 PATS keys can be programmed into the IC during normal programming procedures (unless the unlimited key mode is enabled). If the N_KEYCODE PID reads more than 2 and less than 8, the concern may be the PATS key being used is an unprogrammed key. Verify this by also viewing the MASTERKEY PID. It must read PRESNT for the key to be a valid (programmed) key.
Step 1:
Step 2:
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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