Answer
Apr 23, 2025 - 02:03 AM
Right, the P1260 on a 2009–2010 Ford Escape Hybrid is a security-related code. Meaning, the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) has triggered and stopped the engine from starting. Basically, the car thinks someone tried to steal it, so it shuts down the engine control module to protect itself.
Now, this doesn’t always mean there was an actual theft attempt. It could be something simple like:
- A dead or weak key fob battery,
- A bad or misaligned transponder ring around the ignition switch,
- A communication glitch between the PATS module and PCM,
- Or even a low battery or voltage drop during startup that confused the system.
Thankfully, the manual includes a full diagnostic routine for P1260. It could walk you through checking for related PATS or communication codes, verifying key programming and signal detection, testing voltage at the ignition switch and PCM, or doing a PATS system reset or reprogramming if needed.
If you've recently had battery issues or replaced the key, that could be your culprit. Try using a spare key if you have one; sometimes that clears it right up. If not, you’ll want to follow the manual’s PATS diagnosis flowchart to see if it’s the key, wiring, or control module acting up.
Good luck!
