I was driving yesterday when I noticed a red "remote control" alert pop up briefly. I don't know what it was trying to indicate. Has anyone else seen this? 2023 Powerboost.

 

Try googling the issue, like I did for you....

Remote control alert 2023 Powerboost" likely refers to the common "Remote Features Disabled" or similar notifications in the FordPass app or on the dashboard of a 2023 Ford F-150 Powerboost. These alerts are typically related to the vehicle's 12-volt battery health or a software issue, not an external alarm system remote. Common Causes and SolutionsThe alerts are often triggered by the vehicle's Battery Management System (BMS) detecting a low state of charge (SOC) in the 12-volt battery.

• Low Battery Voltage: The most frequent cause is a low or failing 12V battery, which can be due to short trips, the vehicle sitting unused for several days, or a defective battery cell.
  • Solution: Charge the 12V battery with a "smart charger" designed for AGM batteries, or if the battery is faulty, have it replaced under warranty at a Ford dealership.
• Software Glitches/Failed Updates: Sometimes the alert is a false alarm caused by a software bug or a failed over-the-air (OTA) update that drains the battery.
  • Solution: Drive the vehicle to reset the remote start settings, or perform a Battery Management System (BMS) reset, which is a simple procedure that can be found in online forums or YouTube.
• Deep Sleep Mode: If the vehicle enters "Deep Sleep" mode, remote start requests will be denied.
  • Solution: Drive the vehicle to wake it up and restore full functionality.

Troubleshooting StepsIf you receive this alert, you can take the following steps:

1. Check the Battery: Test the 12-volt battery's cranking amps, not just the voltage, to determine its health.
2. Perform a BMS Reset: A simple BMS reset can often clear the error.
3. Drive the Vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is not in Deep Sleep mode and give the battery a chance to charge.
4. Contact the Dealership: If the problem persists, especially in a new 2023 model, it may be a warranty issue or a known software bug that requires a dealer visit. Dealerships have access to specific technical service bulletins (SSMs) related to these issues.

I should get paid to spoon feed people.

 

Interesting but, as I said, it flashed up while driving which seemed odd - too fast for me to see much detail. If related to the battery issue according to the information you posted the solution is to drive the vehicle. If it happens again/more often I will see the dealer. Could you wipe my chin?

 

Ha at least you got a since of humor!

The only chin I've wiped was my own.

 

There are hundreds of posts about this issue. I joined the Forum looking for advice about my battery. I've installed a NoCo trickle charger under the hood and plug it in once per week and that has solved the problem. The most interesting thing I learned is that recommendations to drive the vehicle to charge up the battery are not necessarily helpful. A technician at a battery shop told me it can take 4+ hours of driving to restore a significantly depleted battery. This is because while you're using the vehicle the alternator output is trying to generate enough electricity to keep your truck operating. Only a small percentage of "surplus" energy is directed to the battery. All modern vehicles are subject to this problem while some handle it better than others. If I was able to have a beer with an automotive engineer, I'd ask them to provide more robust alternators.