2017 Ford F-250 Super Duty Key Fob Programming Guide

As an ASE-certified electrical technician and locksmith, I see countless Ford Super Duty owners overpaying for key fob replacements and programming. The 2017 Ford F-250 Super Duty utilizes Ford's advanced Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS). Whether you have the switchblade-style flip key (turn-to-start) or the Intelligent Access Smart Key (push-to-start), replacing and programming a new fob doesn't always have to mean a costly trip to the dealership.

Below is your complete guide to sourcing, cutting, and programming a new fob for your 2017 F-250.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

Ford is one of the few manufacturers that still allows owners to program their own immobilizer keys—with a major caveat: You must already have two unique, currently working programmed keys. If you only have one working key, or have lost all your keys, you cannot do this DIY procedure.

Here is the on-board programming procedure for the Push-to-Start Intelligent Access Key:

1. Locate the backup slot: Open your center console and remove the rubber mat at the bottom of the front cup holder. You will expose a key slot specifically molded for your smart key.
2. Insert the first working key: Place your first working, programmed fob into the backup slot.
3. Cycle the ignition: Without pressing the brake pedal, press the Engine Start/Stop button to turn the ignition ON. Wait about five seconds, then press the button again to turn the ignition OFF.
4. Insert the second working key: Remove the first key and insert your second working, programmed fob into the slot.
5. Cycle the ignition again: Without pressing the brake, press the Engine Start/Stop button ON. Wait five seconds, then press it again to turn it OFF.
6. Insert the new unprogrammed key: Quickly remove the second key and place your new, unprogrammed key into the backup slot.
7. Program the new key: Press the Engine Start/Stop button ON. Wait 3-5 seconds. You should hear the doors lock and unlock, and the instrument cluster will display a message indicating the key has been successfully programmed. Press the button to turn the ignition OFF.

Note for Flip Keys: The procedure is similar, but instead of using a backup slot, you insert the keys directly into the ignition cylinder, turning them to ON (not start) for three seconds each before inserting the new key.

Battery replacement

If your 2017 F-250 fob is simply losing range or displaying a "Key Battery Low" message on the dash, you likely just need a new CR2032 battery.

1. Slide the release latch on the back of the fob to remove the emergency mechanical key.
2. Insert a flathead screwdriver or the tip of the mechanical key into the pry notch exposed at the bottom of the fob.
3. Gently twist to separate the two halves of the fob shell.
4. Remove the old battery and pop in a fresh CR2032 battery. Ensure the positive (+) side is facing up.
5. Snap the two halves back together firmly and test the fob.

Where to buy a replacement fob

You have three main avenues for sourcing a replacement fob for your Super Duty:

• The Dealership: Going OEM through the dealer guarantees you receive the correct, functioning key. However, this is the most expensive route. A new OEM fob plus programming usually runs $250 to $400+.
• Automotive Locksmith: A local automotive locksmith can provide an OEM or high-quality aftermarket fob. They come to you and usually charge between $150 and $250 for the key, cutting the blade, and programming.
• Amazon or eBay: You can find aftermarket fobs online for $30 to $60. The pro is the massive upfront savings. The con is that quality is wildly inconsistent, and you still have to pay a locksmith to laser-cut the emergency blade and potentially program it if you don't have two working keys.

If on-board programming isn't supported

If you only have one working key (or zero), the DIY method above will not work. Ford designed the PATS immobilizer system this way to prevent valet drivers or mechanics from easily cloning your key when you hand it over.

In this scenario, a specialized OBD2 scan tool or diagnostic computer is required to connect to the truck's Body Control Module (BCM), bypass the security gateway, and authorize the new transponder.

Expect to pay a mobile locksmith or the dealer around $75 to $150 just for the labor of plugging in their machine and programming the immobilizer, on top of the cost of the key itself. It's highly recommended that owners buy and program a third key as a backup while they still have two working keys!

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.