FixVault

Starting System - without Push Button Start

Overview 

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 ignition 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 IKT. Once started, the engine runs for 10 minutes. The run time can be extended by the operator.

System Operation 

System Diagram 

GFD57580Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Network Message Chart 

Network Input Messages BCM 

Broadcast Message Originating Module Message Purpose
RKE data TCM Provides the BCM with the RKE TIC and the button press requesting a remote start.

Network Input Messages PCM 

Broadcast Message Originating Module Message Purpose
Starter crank request BCM Provides the PCM with ignition switch and 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 disables the engine, the IPC displays "STARTING SYSTEM FAULT" message center. For additional information, refer to Anti-Theft Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) .

When the ignition is turned to START, the PCM receives the following inputs:

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 and start 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.

Remote Start 

When equipped with remote start, a remote start event is initiated when the IKT transmits a remote start request signal to the TPM. The TPM sends a remote start request message to the BCM. The BCM sends a crank request message to the PCM. The factory equipped remote start system does not operate if the ignition is in the RUN/START position or the hood is not closed.

The remote start system allows the operator to start the engine from up to 100 meters (328 feet) away, by pressing a sequence of buttons on the IKT. The remote start system is activated by pressing the lock button on the IKT once to make sure the doors are locked, followed by 2 presses of the remote start button. The 3 button presses must occur within 3 seconds of each other. The BCM acknowledges the remote start request by flashing the exterior lights twice. Once started, the engine runs for 10 minutes (default run time is 10 minutes; the time can be programmed by the customer to 5, 10 or 15 minutes) and the parking lights remain illuminated until the cycle is complete. The remote start duration can also be extended by initiating remote start while the first timer is still running or by initiating a completely independent start cycle when the first cycle has completed. No more than 2 remote start sequences can occur within a one hour period, unless the ignition is set to the RUN/START position between the remote start requests. During the remote start cycle the power windows are inhibited and the radio will not turn on automatically but may be turned on manually from inside the vehicle. If the remote start system fails to start the horn chirps twice.

To transition from remote start mode to drive mode, use a programmed IKT to switch the ignition to the RUN position. If a programmed IKT is not used, the engine shuts off.

To deactivate the remote start system, press the remote start button once. When deactivating the remote start system the parking lights turn off to give a visual indication that the engine and climate control features have turned off. It may be necessary to be closer to the vehicle to deactivate the remote start feature than it was to initiate it due to ground deflections and added noise from the engine running.

Component Description 

IKT 

The RKE system uses an IKT. The IKT incorporates both the PATS and RKE functions into a single device. The factory installed remote start (if equipped), is controlled by the IKT function and allows the engine to be started from outside the vehicle. The RKE functions control the door lock/unlock features.

Passive Anti-Theft Transceiver 

For additional information, refer to Anti-Theft Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) .

BCM 

The BCM is the gateway module, translating HS-CAN messages to the MS-CAN. This allows a message to be distributed throughout both networks.

Ignition Switch 

The ignition switch is controlled by the ignition lock cylinder with a key. When the ignition lock cylinder is turned using the key, a mechanical connection positions the ignition switch to the selected position and allows the ignition switch to send voltage to specific components. The ignition switch sends voltage to the BCM and PCM during engine cranking.

PCM 

The PCM receives input signals from sensors and other components (switches, relays). Based on this information, the PCM generates output signals to control various relays, solenoids and actuators.

TPM Module 

The TPM module is a receiving antenna that receives high frequency signals. When a remote start request is initiated from the IKT the TPM module receives the signal and communicates that remote start request message via the MS-CAN to the BCM to initiate a remote start event.

TR Sensor 

The TR sensor is located inside the transaxle and indicates gearshift position to the PCM. The PCM uses that information to enable the starting system to start the engine in PARK or NEUTRAL. For additional information, refer to Automatic Transmission 6F50 6F55 .

Starting System - with Push Button Start