PKU-F1 problems, 2003 Ford Escape

I am having trouble programming this unit. Can some one please tell me what I am doing wrong. Black wire of PKU-F1 to 3rd ign. output of alarm, red wire to 12V constant. Loop is wrapped perfectly around that sensor ring on the ignition, so close it is right against it. Put the first key in turned to "run" waited for THEFT light to go out. Put second key in within 5 sec. and turned key to "run" waited for THEFT light to go out. Pulled key out and hit remote start button withing 5 sec. I have done this a thousand times faster and faster and faster and I still cant get it to program. Any suggestions? 2003 Ford Escape XLT Prestige APS785 PKU-F1 thank you

Is the third IGN. wire maybe programmed for something else ie: horn honk or something. This is the case for alot of units. When you try the remote start you should be able to put your hand on the bypass and feel it click. If not try the programming. Then remove the bypass and apply neg and pos direct to the box. No click, no good.

if the 3rd ignition is set right , like on the propper jumper....then it may be a bad bypass, , i have seen that happen,,,the wire in the loop has been pinched, or broken

how long are you waiting before you reattempt? the escape is unique in the ford line. it will remain locked up for over 20 minutes and will not start with the key, unless you turn the key to the run and leave it on for 20 seconds. if you do not do this your re attempt is futile. also the pku f1 is designed for the 8 cut transponder key is it not? the escape and focus use a ten cut key that has a different transponder. the eight cut key is only used in the mustang and excursion as of 04 and in 03 also the f 150. like i said i believe that the pku f1 is designed for the 8 cut keu, but i am not sure i always use an astcbm

are you sure you are using an encrypted key in the bypass unit?? the escape reqires an encrpted key.Joe O'Byrne

Owner / Installer

I am only using the 2 black keys that came with the truck. And they are definitly encrypted. The PKU-F1 says it is for the 2003 Ford Escape. When I hook up to 12V and ground I don't hear a relay snapping in the PKU-F1. I usually don't wait very long between attempts and I have always been able to start it with the key. Any other suggestions would be great. Thank you

might be a bad bypass unit there are rather cheap.Joe O'Byrne

Owner / Installer

Check to make sure that the 3rd IGN wire is outputing a (-) signal to the module when you press the remote starter button. If nothing else jumper the wire to a ground and then physically ground the BLACK wire with the jumper wire to copy the groundout when running feature of the RS unit.Jeff

Velocity Custom Home Theater

Mobile Audio/Video Specialist

Morden, Manitoba CANADA