2017 Ford F-150 Key Fob Programming Guide

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to program a new key fob for your 2017 Ford F-150, replace the battery in your existing remote, and your options for purchasing a replacement.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

Ford vehicles offer a convenient on-board programming procedure that allows you to add a new key yourself, but it comes with a critical requirement: you must already have two unique, working keys. If you only have one key (or none), you cannot use this DIY method and will need to see a locksmith or the Ford dealer. The two keys cannot be "cloned" keys; they must be two distinct keys separately programmed to the truck.

If you have your two working keys and your new, un-programmed key (with the blade already cut), follow these steps precisely:

1. Insert the first working key into the ignition.
2. Turn the ignition from the OFF/LOCK position to the ON position. Wait for three seconds. The engine does not need to be running.
3. Turn the ignition back to OFF and remove the key.
4. Within five seconds, insert the second working key into the ignition.
5. Turn the ignition from OFF to ON. Wait for another three seconds.
6. Turn the ignition back to OFF and remove the second key.
7. Within ten seconds, insert your new, un-programmed key into the ignition.
8. Turn the ignition to the ON position. Wait for at least six seconds.
9. You will hear the door locks cycle (lock and then unlock). This is the signal that your truck has entered programming mode and has successfully recognized the new key's transponder chip.
10. To program the remote portion (for locking/unlocking doors), turn the ignition OFF. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on the new remote fob. While holding it, turn the ignition to ON, then back to OFF. Release the button.
11. The door locks should cycle again, confirming the remote has been programmed.
12. Turn the ignition off and remove the key. Test all functions of the new key and remote, including starting the engine. If it fails to start, the transponder programming may not have been successful, and you should repeat the steps carefully.

Battery replacement

If your remote's range is diminishing or it works intermittently, a simple battery change is likely the fix. The 2017 F-150 fob uses a single CR2032 3V coin battery.

1. Locate the small slot on the side or bottom edge of the key fob case.
2. Insert a small flathead screwdriver or pry tool into the slot and gently twist to separate the two halves of the fob.
3. Carefully remove the old CR2032 battery. Note the orientation, paying attention to which side is positive (+).
4. Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing up, just like the one you removed.
5. Align the two halves of the key fob and snap them firmly back together until you hear a click.
6. Test the remote to ensure it is working correctly.

Where to buy a replacement fob

• Ford Dealership: This is the most expensive option, often running from $250 to $400+. You are guaranteed an OEM part, and the cutting and programming service will be done correctly, but you pay a premium for it.
• Automotive Locksmith: A locksmith can provide OEM or high-quality aftermarket fobs and has the specialized equipment to cut the high-security key blade and program the transponder. This is often more affordable than the dealer, typically in the $150 to $250 range, with the added benefit of mobile service.
• Amazon/eBay: You can find replacement fobs online for as little as $30-$80. While this is the cheapest way to get the hardware, you are only buying the part. You will still need to find a locksmith or dealer to cut the key blade. Be aware that the quality of these online fobs can be inconsistent.

If on-board programming isn't supported

As mentioned, the DIY method only works if you have two existing keys. If you have lost one and are down to a single key, you have lost the ability to program more keys yourself. This is a security feature to prevent unauthorized key duplication.

In this scenario, the vehicle's computer must be accessed with a professional diagnostic scan tool. This tool communicates with the truck's immobilizer system to authorize a new key. An automotive locksmith is the best resource for this. They can erase the lost key from the system (so it can no longer be used to start the truck) and program one or more new keys for you. This process is generally quick and much more cost-effective than a dealership visit.

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.