Problem: Security System Prevents Starting

[Marvinmycat]

Greetings,

On a 2001 Ford Escape we own, it has been determined that the Security system is preventing the SUV from starting. The engine cranks, but will not fire. I was wondering if anyone has had this problem, or knows of anyone who has had this happen to them. Currently the vehicle is in a shop, but the service department wants to send it to a Ford shop for an estimated cost of at least $150.

It is my understanding from talking to some people that the cure shouldn't warrant this kind of price tag, as it might be as simple as hitting some sort of reset button for a period of time.

If anyone knows about this, please post something so that we aren’t raked over the coals. By the way, there is a TSB out on this, but as luck would have, there isn't any detailed information as how to correct this problem.

Thanks in advance.

Below is the TSB, as well as a link for other Ford TSB's:

http://www.ford-trucks.com/tsb/tsb.php/m-FORD

TSB data for: 2001 FORD ESCAPE
Bulletin Number: 0162
Sequence Number: 619266
Date: 20010402
Component Name: 116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT CONTROLLER
Make: FORD
Model: ESCAPE
Year: 2001
Summary:
VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS) MAY NOT START OR CRANK. *TT

[LChambers]

What happened with your starting issue? Did you eventually take it to Ford to have it repaired? Were you able to determine what was done to resolve the issue?

I have a friend with a very similar issue. She has gotten the diagnoses of it being a 'cold start' (whatever that is) to a fuel issue. This past weekend I tried to help her start her 01 Escape, but it seemed that something was preventing it from starting. After cranking, and seeming it was going to start, the whole car would jolt as the engine refused to start.

Thanks for any info you have!

[lacynic]

I am looking on this sight for the very same reasons. I just bought a used 02 escape xlt. For the first time since I bought the vehicle I set the alarm off on accident today. I do not have the remote keyless entry since I bought it used. I was told to lock & unlock my door and the alarm would deactivate. Only problem is now all of the sudden everytime I try to crank my vehicle it hesitates and doesn't want to start. I have had no problems with the car until today.
>????????????

[N4cer]

Anybody find a solution yet? I'm having the same problem, and I HAVE to be able to drive my vehicle!

[mbarcus1]

Are you trying to start it with a programed key. If not that will dissable it. I believe it says in your owners manual, how to disable you security system.

Mike B