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Home / DTC / B1601 — passive anti-theft system received incorrect key-code from the key transponder ignition

B1601 — passive anti-theft system received incorrect key-code from the key transponder ignition

Detailed page for trouble code B1601.

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B1601

LAND ROVER B — Body

passive anti-theft system received incorrect key-code from the key transponder ignition

Brand: LAND ROVER
Type: B — Body
Views: UK: 8 EN: 10 RU: 13
AI status
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Damaged or non-programmed key transponder (chip)
  • Faulty immobilizer antenna/coil (key reader ring) around the ignition
  • Poor connections, corrosion or open/short in wiring between antenna and immobilizer/BCM
  • Immobilizer module or body control module (BCM) fault
  • Intermittent CAN or serial communication faults between modules
  • Strong external radio frequency interference (RF) at the antenna

Symptoms

  • Engine cranks but will not start, or starter disabled depending on model
  • Immobilizer / key warning lamp illuminated or flashing on dash
  • Key-not-recognised messages displayed in infotainment or instrument cluster
  • Intermittent starting problems with one or more keys
  • Remote lock/unlock may still work but engine is immobilized

What to check

  • Retrieve B1601 and related codes with a compatible diagnostic tool (Land Rover OEM or capable aftermarket scanner)
  • Attempt to start using each known key; confirm if one key works and another does not
  • Visually inspect key for damage and check remote battery (even if remote operates, transponder chip can be damaged)
  • Check antenna/coil at ignition for secure mounting and connector condition
  • Verify power and ground at immobilizer/BCM connectors and check for blown fuses
  • Check CAN/serial communication between immobilizer, BCM and engine ECU with a scan tool

Signal parameters

  • Transponder ID read by diagnostic tool (key present/not present, ID matches expected keys)
  • Antenna/coil continuity and resistance (compare to spec)
  • Supply voltage to immobilizer/BCM (approx. battery voltage when ignition on)
  • Ground integrity at immobilizer module
  • CAN bus messages between immobilizer, BCM and engine ECU (message presence, error counters)
  • Immobilizer status / rolling-code counters and key programming status reported by scan tool

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Confirm the fault: read and record all stored/active DTCs and freeze frame if available.
  2. Try a known-good key: if another programmed key starts the vehicle, suspect the key transponder (replace/reprogram key).
  3. If no key starts the vehicle, check immobilizer indicator behavior while attempting start and note any displayed messages.
  4. Use OEM diagnostic tool to read the transponder IDs seen by the antenna; verify if the key ID is detected and whether it matches stored keys in the BCM/immobilizer.
  5. Inspect and test the antenna/coil at the ignition barrel: verify connector seating, corrosion, and continuity. Repair or replace if open/short or physically damaged.
  6. Verify power and ground at the immobilizer/BCM and check related fuse(s). Repair wiring or connector faults.
  7. Check CAN/serial communication: confirm modules are communicating and there are no bus errors. Repair wiring or module faults as indicated.
  8. Attempt key reprogramming/learning procedure with the factory tool if the key is present and known to be good; follow manufacturer procedure exactly.
  9. If diagnostics point to immobilizer module failure (no valid input from antenna but antenna OK), consider module replacement or reflash — consult TSBs and reprogram as required.
  10. After repairs, clear codes and confirm successful starts with all keys, and perform a test drive to ensure no intermittent faults.

Likely causes

  • Key transponder not recognized (damaged or not coded to vehicle)
  • Faulty or disconnected antenna/coil at the ignition barrel
  • Wiring/connectors to immobilizer module are damaged or corroded
  • Immobilizer module fault or lost programming

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Passive anti-theft system: incorrect key-code received from key transponder. Immobilizer has rejected the key and starting may be inhibited.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1-3 hours

Similar codes

B1600 B1602 B1603 B1604 B1610 U0100
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