2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty — Key Fob Programming

Quick reference

Item	Detail
FCC ID	Varies by trim and fob style. Check the label inside your existing fob (under the battery door) or confirm by VIN with a dealer/locksmith.
OEM Fob PN	Varies by trim/options. Verify by VIN or the part number printed inside your original fob.
Aftermarket Options	New/unlocked proximity fob or remote-head key compatible with 2023 Super Duty; avoid used/previously paired smart keys. Confirm compatibility by VIN and FCC ID before buying.
Battery Type	CR2032 or CR2450 (depends on the exact fob). Check what’s in your current fob before purchasing.
Programmable On-Board?	Limited. You can add a spare yourself only if you already have two working, programmed keys of the same type. Otherwise, programming requires a dealer/locksmith scan tool.
Cuts Required?	Yes. Push-button trims: the emergency key blade must be cut. Keyed-ignition trims: the primary key blade must be cut and programmed to the immobilizer.

Step-by-step on-board programming

Important: 2023 Super Duty integrates the remote and the immobilizer. There is no separate “remote-only” programming. Adding a new key/fob generally requires security access with a scan tool. The only DIY path is the Ford two-key method—available only if you already have two working, programmed keys of the same type (two working proximity fobs for push-button start, or two working chipped keys for keyed ignition). If you do not have two working keys, skip to the section “If on-board programming isn’t supported.”

Choose the procedure that matches your truck:

A) Push-button start (proximity/Intelligent Access) — add a third key when you already have two working fobs

1. Sit in the truck with doors closed. Have both working fobs and the new, unprogrammed fob.
2. Locate the backup key slot (often inside the center console or near the front console pocket—see your owner’s manual for the exact spot). Place Working Fob 1 in the slot.
3. Without pressing the brake, press the START/STOP button. Wait ~3 seconds, then remove Working Fob 1.
4. Place Working Fob 2 in the backup slot. Press START/STOP again (no brake). Wait ~3 seconds, then remove Working Fob 2.
5. Place the new fob in the backup slot. Press START/STOP once more. Wait for the cluster to confirm (message/locks cycle). Remove the fob and test: start the truck with your foot on the brake and verify lock/unlock/remote start (if equipped).

B) Keyed ignition (chipped key or remote-head key) — add a third key when you already have two working keys

1. Insert Working Key 1. Turn the ignition to ON (run) for 3 seconds, then OFF and remove.
2. Within 10 seconds, insert Working Key 2. Turn to ON for 3 seconds, then OFF and remove.
3. Within 20 seconds, insert the new key. Turn to ON. The security light will come on and then go out; once it goes out, the key is learned. Turn OFF, then test start and remote functions.

Notes

• Timing matters; if you miss the windows above, start over.
• New keys/fobs must be new or “unlocked.” Many used Ford proximity keys cannot be reused.
• If the truck doesn’t accept the new key, professional programming is required.

Battery replacement

Proximity fob

1. Slide out the emergency key blade.
2. Use a coin or plastic pry tool at the seam near the keyring slot to gently split the case.
3. Note battery orientation, then swap the coin cell (CR2032 or CR2450 depending on fob). Avoid touching the new cell’s faces.
4. Snap the case together firmly and reinstall the emergency blade. Test lock/unlock and range.

Remote-head/flip key

1. Look for the small notch or screw. If present, remove the screw; otherwise, pry at the notch to open the shell.
2. Note the battery orientation and replace the cell.
3. Reassemble and test.

Where to buy a replacement fob

• Ford dealer

  • Pros: Parts matched to your VIN; latest supersessions; seamless programming.
  • Cons: Highest price. Typical total (fob + cut + program): $300–$600 depending on trim and options.

• Automotive locksmith (mobile or shop)

  • Pros: Usually lower than dealer; on-site service; can cut the emergency blade and program. Many carry OEM or OEM-equivalent fobs.
  • Cons: Availability varies; you must confirm they stock new/unlocked fobs for 2023.
  • Typical total: $200–$450 depending on fob type and your region.

• Online (Amazon/eBay/parts sites)

  • Pros: Lowest parts prices if you buy a truly new/unlocked unit.
  • Cons: High risk of used/locked or wrong FCC ID. You’ll still need cutting and programming. Returns can be a hassle.
  • Tip: Match by VIN, trim, and the FCC ID/part number printed inside your original fob before ordering.

If on-board programming isn’t supported

Most 2023 Ford Super Duty trucks use Ford’s 80-bit PATS immobilizer. When you don’t have two working keys (or after an all-keys-lost event), a dealer or qualified locksmith must program keys via Ford IDS/FDRS with security access (incode/outcode). Expect:

• Programming labor: roughly $100–$200
• New/unlocked fob: $120–$350 (varies by trim/features like remote start, tailgate, power deploy steps)
• Emergency blade cutting: $15–$40
• All keys lost: add time for security access (10-minute wait) and possible trip/tow fees for mobile service

Heads-up

• The emergency/backup mechanical key blade must be cut for door access, even on push-button trims.
• Some trims require configuration updates in addition to key learning—another reason a scan tool may be necessary.
• Plan to bring government ID and proof of ownership; locksmiths and dealers must verify authorization before programming.

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.