Starting System

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

NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with PATS that disables the engine from cranking if an unprogrammed PATS key is used or an invalid PCM ID is received. PATS is controlled by the BCM-B . If there is a PATS concern that cause the engine to be disabled, the IPC displays "STARTING SYSTEM FAULT" in the message center. Refer to PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS), WITH INTELLIGENT ACCESS .

The RFA module in conjunction with the BCM controls the ignition modes and in conjunction with the PCM controls the starting system.

Under normal operation, during a start event, the start/stop switch is pressed in combination with the brake pedal, the RFA module, PCM and BCM receives 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 Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) threshold is reached, a set crank time is exceeded or the stop/start button is pressed indicating an engine shutdown.