Starting System: Overview

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Lincoln MKT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The starter system controls the cranking of the engine. The starter motor is enabled by the starter relay when the relay is activated by the PCM. The PCM receives inputs from the Start/stop switch, BCM, Run/start relay and TR sensor before activating the starter relay to crank the engine

Remote Start

The remote start feature allows the operator to remotely start the engine from up to 100 meters (328 feet) away and is activated using the IA key. Once started, the engine runs for 15 minutes. The run time can be extended by the operator.

System Operation

System Diagram

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Network Message Chart

Module Network Input Messages - RFA Module

Broadcast Message	Originating Module	Message Purpose
Remote start command	TPM module via LIN	Provides the RFA module with the IA key command for a remote start.

Network Input Messages - BCM

Broadcast Message	Originating Module	Message Purpose
RKE data (with IA)	RFA module	Provides the BCM with the correct IA key data. Provides a request to the BCM for starting per customer remote start request.

Network Input Messages - PCM

Broadcast Message	Originating Module	Message Purpose
Starter crank request	BCM	Provides the PCM with ignition, hood input status and a request to crank and start the engine during a remote start event.
Remote start request	BCM	Provides the PCM with a request for remote start.

Starting System

NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with PATS that disables the engine from cranking and starting if an unprogrammed PATS key is used or an invalid PCM ID is received. PATS is controlled by the BCM. If there is a PATS concern that causes the engine to be disabled, the IPC displays "STARTING SYSTEM FAULT" in the message center. For additional information, refer to PATS, Anti-Theft Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) .

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

During a start event, the start/stop switch is pressed in combination with the brake pedal, the RFA module, PCM and BCM receive a request to start the engine. The PCM requires input voltage from the Run/start relay.

The PCM recognizes the correct inputs from the BCM and the 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 request.

If cumulative crank time exceeds 60 seconds within 60 minutes, the starter is disabled for 15 minutes and the PCM sets a DTC. Refer to the Owner's Literature for more information.