25 Lobo Start/Stop Eliminator Install Thwarted?

[Luminvent]

Today I was in the process of installing a start stop eliminator on my 2025 Maverick Lobo, and I was following the instructions and got to the step where I remove the metal bracket covering the plug. I tried putting a 7 mm socket back there, but it seems that perhaps Ford from the factory crushed the hex head and now I can't remove the bracket to unplug the connector. Is this something that anyone else has experienced? I've provided a picture of the backside where the head of the bolt is located.

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[RodLS]

From 4Dtechs website.

• PLEASE NOTE: Ford has started replacing he 7mm screw with a security screw in some vehicles. If this is the case, simply use your fingers to bend the metal connector cover out of the way.

It takes a bit of force but just bend it out of the way.

 

[GA Hot Pepper]

If you want to defeat Auto Start Top. Just plug in a trailer light checker in the 4 pin connector. Start stop doesn’t work when trailer is connected.

 

[Luminvent]

And now my truck won't start, even if I put it back to normal...

 

[mwelby]

Today I was in the process of installing a start stop eliminator on my 2025 Maverick Lobo, and I was following the instructions and got to the step where I remove the metal bracket covering the plug. I tried putting a 7 mm socket back there, but it seems that perhaps Ford from the factory crushed the hex head and now I can't remove the bracket to unplug the connector. Is this something that anyone else has experienced? I've provided a picture of the backside where the head of the bolt is located.

Yes. Same issue. I returned it to Amazon for a full refund.

 

[bluelobo26]

On my 2026 Lobo, I did have to bend that metal cover out of the way to plug in the eliminator, then bent the cover back to its normal position. Works fine and I really like not having to punch the button every time I start.

Regarding the no start, check the factory plug very carefully for bent pins. Something likely got misaligned in the truck-side connector since it won't start even when put back to normal.

 

[Glen Baker LLC]

If you want to defeat Auto Start Top. Just plug in a trailer light checker in the 4 pin connector. Start stop doesn’t work when trailer is connected.

I have that this plug will disable the BLIS system.​

 

[Luminvent]

The pins look all right to me. It makes the little chirps and whirrs when I try to start it and the airbag lights illuminate but the dash screens don't come on and the engine doesn't start.

I also tried disconnecting the negative battery terminal and leaving it to reset the computers, but that still didn't work.

 

[grumpytoo]

If you want to defeat Auto Start Top. Just plug in a trailer light checker in the 4 pin connector. Start stop doesn’t work when trailer is connected.

Brilliant

 

[jonshep]

I installed an eliminator in my 2024 XLT last week but did not run into any bolt protection. I had to remove the console to get to the switch, which took some time, but I am retired and my time is not worth much. Install was, unplug, install eliminator, reinstall console. I did notice that console bolts/screws were not very snug so I snugged them a bit more when it went back together. Only one is against metal, the others tighten against plastic, so don't over do it. I don't have a 2026.

 

[Luminvent]

It seems Ford may have set a trap starting in '25. They moved it below, covered it with a thick metal shield, and fastened it with a security screw.

I had a local mechanic look at it and he was stumped. So, now I'm contacting the dealership... Not looking forward to it.

 

[jonshep]

It seems Ford may have set a trap starting in '25. They moved it below, covered it with a thick metal shield, and fastened it with a security screw.

I had a local mechanic look at it and he was stumped. So, now I'm contacting the dealership... Not looking forward to it.

Let us know what you learn from the dealer.

 

[RodLS]

Which eliminator is it? 4D Tech?

The one I got from 4D Tech works with no issues.

 

[havoc]

I’m curious what the dealer says too, seems like that adapter might have shorted something out on the module that plug connects to. I imagine this would throw a DTC code if you were plugged into the OBD2.

 

[Luminvent]

This is the one I purchased:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYDHLT2T

The mechanic that checked it out this morning was not able to get anything out of the OBD port. Not that nothing was wrong, but he was getting no information whatsoever.

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