Ford has introduced a new anti-theft feature called Start Inhibit, which allows owners to remotely block their vehicle's engine from starting.
The service costs $7.99 per month in the US or CA$9.99 in Canada after a one-year free trial.
The system works like two-factor authentication. When a vehicle is accessed, started, or moved, the FordPass app sends an alert to the owner.
If the owner did not authorize the action, they can remotely engage Start Inhibit, preventing the engine from starting until a code generated by the app is entered on the infotainment screen.
Law Enforcement Integration
Ford's system also assists law enforcement.
After a theft is reported and a police report is filed, Ford's call center can work with officers to trigger Start Inhibit, kill the engine, and track the vehicle's location.
Detroit police aim to recover flagged trucks within an hour to minimize damage.
However, Start Inhibit does not cut power to a moving car.
It only activates once the vehicle has stopped and shut off, blocking the next start rather than stopping the engine mid-drive.
The feature is currently available on select 2024 and newer F-150 and Super Duty models, as well as the 2026 Expedition, Bronco Sport, and Mustang Mach-E.
It is part of Ford's optional Security Package, which includes a one-year free subscription for owners of these vehicles.
Ford acknowledges it is in an arms race with vehicle thieves who use devices purchased online to clone keys, a common issue for vehicles with keyless access.
The company hopes Start Inhibit will help stay ahead of criminals.
