Code
B1A01
MITSUBISHI
B — Body
KOS key2 internal error
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Weak or dead key fob battery (KEY2)
- Damaged or defective key transponder (KEY2)
- Faulty KOS antenna/read coil or wiring to the antenna
- Poor power or ground to the KOS control module
- Corroded/loose connectors at KOS module, antenna or key reader
- Software fault or corrupted data in KOS/BCM/immobilizer module
Symptoms
- Ignition push-button won’t start or engine not recognized when using KEY2
- Security/immobilizer warning lamp illuminated or flashing
- Intermittent recognition of KEY2 (works sometimes, fails other times)
- No response from push-button start for that key, but other keys may work
- Remote functions (lock/unlock) may still work while KOS start not recognized
What to check
- Read and record all stored DTCs and freeze frame data with a capable scanner
- Try starting with the other registered key(s) to confirm if problem is limited to KEY2
- Check key fob battery voltage (replace if below nominal ~3 V for coin cell types)
- Inspect antenna/read coil location, connectors and harness for damage or corrosion
- Verify vehicle battery voltage and KOS module supply and ground pins with ignition on
- Check CAN/ LIN communication errors and verify KOS module is seen by the network
Signal parameters
- Key fob coin cell battery voltage (target ≈ 3.0 V for usual CR2032-type fobs)
- Vehicle battery voltage with ignition on (should be ≈ 12–14.5 V)
- KOS module supply and ground continuity and voltage at connector pins
- RF/transponder read pulses at the antenna coil when key is presented (presence/absence or amplitude change)
- CAN bus messages between KOS and ECM/BCM — presence of periodic ID and immobilizer status frames
- Module self-diagnostics or status bytes reported by factory scan tool
Diagnostic algorithm
- Connect a factory-level or capable OBD scanner; record DTCs and freeze frame data. Note whether code is stored as current or history.
- Verify whether the fault affects only KEY2 by testing with a known-good spare key. If spare key works, focus on the KEY2 fob.
- Replace the KEY2 coin cell battery and retest recognition. Inspect key internal PCB and antenna coil for damage or corrosion.
- Inspect antenna/read coil and its wiring/harness around the start area for physical damage or poor connections. Wiggle-test connectors while observing live data or scanner status.
- With ignition off, check power and ground at the KOS module connector. With ignition ON, verify proper supply voltage and CAN communication lines for faults (use multimeter/scan tool).
- Use oscilloscope or scan-tool live-data to verify transponder read pulses at the antenna when KEY2 is presented; compare with KEY1 or a working key if possible.
- If wiring, power/ground and antenna are good, attempt KOS module reset/clear codes and re-learn procedure per factory service manual. Reattempt key registration and start test.
- If code persists after keys and wiring verified, check for software updates or TSBs; perform module reprogram/reflash if recommended by manufacturer.
- If module still fails and diagnostics point to internal fault, replace KOS/immobilizer module or antenna unit as per service manual. After replacement, perform key registration and final verification.
- Clear DTCs and perform repeated start tests and road test to confirm repair. Re-scan to ensure no related network codes remain.
Likely causes
- Key fob battery depleted (most common)
- Damaged transponder or key electronics
- Faulty/shifted antenna coil or poor connector
- Module power/ground supply problem
- KOS module internal fault or corrupted programming
Fault status
Status
KOS (Keyless Operation System) reports KEY2 internal error — KEY2 not recognized or internal module/read error detected. Check key battery, antenna, wiring, and KOS module.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.0-3.0 hours
Similar codes
Repair manuals
Manual library for MITSUBISHI
406
Browse 406 MITSUBISHI manuals: repair procedures, diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component locations, service data and Labor Times by year, model and trim.
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