Anti theft light no start?

2002 FORD F-150
170 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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FRANK CARDOVA
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
hi, yes, wondering how to reset theft light code 16 i have no key fob and this happened after i swapped the PCM out. the one i put in is exactly the same computer as the old one. Theft light won't let it start up.
Jan 17, 2025 at 12:58 PM
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STEVE W.
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 15,200 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Theft light is on because you swapped the PCM out. They are not plug and play systems. It will need to have the VIN and security information in it changed to match the original unit and your vehicle. To do that with used ECM you need a proper Ford dealer scan tool and access to Fords online programming system. No way around that.
Jan 17, 2025 at 5:34 PM
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