Ford Smart Key Programming: Backup Slot Sequence
Updated 2026 16 vehicles 2013–2019
This procedure covers 16 Ford and Lincoln vehicles from 2013 to 2019. 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.
If your Ford has push-button start, you can add a new smart key yourself when you already have two working smart keys. You'll have 30 seconds to complete the sequence, so read it through first. Up to 4 smart keys total.
Before you start
- Two already-programmed, working smart keys
- Your new, unprogrammed smart key
- Engine off and all doors closed (keep them closed throughout)
- 1Place an existing programmed smart key in the backup slot in the center console — key ring at the top, buttons facing the rear.
- 2Wait 5 seconds, then press START/STOP without starting the engine.
- 3Remove that smart key from the backup slot.
- 4Within 10 seconds, place the second programmed smart key in the backup slot and press START/STOP without starting the engine.
- 5Wait 5 seconds, then press START/STOP again without starting the engine.
- 6Remove the second smart key from the backup slot.
- 7Wait 5 seconds, place the new unprogrammed smart key in the backup slot, and press START/STOP without starting the engine. Programming is complete.
- 8To add another new key, repeat the last two steps.
Tips & troubleshooting
- Maximum of four smart keys per vehicle.
- If it doesn't work, wait 10 seconds and repeat from step 1.
- No two working smart keys? A dealer or automotive locksmith must program the spare.
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 16 vehicles below — 5 models across 2 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.
| Make | Model | Years covered |
|---|---|---|
| Ford | Edge Shop fobs for the Ford Edge on Amazon | |
| Ford | Mustang Shop fobs for the Ford Mustang on Amazon | |
| Lincoln | MKC Shop fobs for the Lincoln MKC on Amazon | |
| Lincoln | MKX Shop fobs for the Lincoln MKX on Amazon | |
| Lincoln | MKZ Shop fobs for the Lincoln MKZ 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: