Ford Remote Programming: Reset and Relearn Every Remote
Updated 2026 487 vehicles 1998–2016
This procedure covers 487 Ford, Lincoln, Mazda and Mercury vehicles from 1998 to 2016. Check that yours is listed below, then follow the steps.
Need the fob itself?
Pick your vehicle to see replacement fobs on Amazon. Match the FCC ID on your old fob before you buy.
Not sure which fob is yours? Find your year below for the exact FCC ID and part number.
Programming a remote on this Ford resets every remote for the vehicle, so you reprogram them all together. There are two common methods — try Method A first, and if it doesn't work use Method B. Do not press the brake pedal at any point.
Before you start
- Every remote you want to use with the vehicle
- Your key
Method A
If it won't enter programming mode, try the same steps with the driver's door closed.
- 1Close all doors, then open the driver's door. With it open, press Unlock on the driver's-door panel and insert the key into the ignition.
- 2Turn the ignition from OFF to RUN 8 times within 8 seconds, ending in RUN. The door locks cycle to confirm programming mode. (OFF is where you can remove the key; RUN is just before starting.) If the locks don't cycle, remove the key and start over.
- 3Within 10 seconds, press any button on the first remote. The locks cycle to confirm. If you have only one remote, skip to the last step.
- 4Within 10 seconds, press any button on the next remote; the locks cycle again. Repeat for any other remotes.
- 5Turn the ignition to OFF. The locks cycle once more to end programming mode.
Method B
- 1Fasten your seatbelt and close all doors.
- 2Turn the ignition from OFF to RUN 4 times within 3 seconds.
- 3Turn the ignition OFF. The system chimes to confirm programming mode.
- 4Within 10 seconds, press and hold any button on the first remote until you hear a chime.
- 5Within 10 seconds, press and hold any button on the next remote until it chimes.
- 6Turn the ignition to RUN to exit programming mode.
Tips & troubleshooting
- Work quickly — the steps need to be done in fast succession.
- If you never get the first chime or lock cycle, the car didn't enter programming mode. Remove the key, open and close the door, and start over.
Which fob does your vehicle take?
These steps program a fob to your car — they can't tell you which fob to buy, and one that isn't the right part for your vehicle will not pair no matter how carefully you follow them. Find your vehicle below: tap your year for the exact fob it takes — FCC ID, OE part number and battery — or "Shop fobs" to browse replacements for that model.
Vehicles this procedure covers
These steps apply to the 487 vehicles below — 71 models across 4 makes. Tap a year for that exact vehicle's fob details — FCC ID, part number and battery — or "Shop fobs" to browse replacements for that model on Amazon.
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Rather pay someone to do it?
What a locksmith or dealer charges to program a fob, and what a lost key costs to replace outright: