How To Program 2011 Ford Explorer Key Fob? The 128 Correct Answer

The most common solution when a car remote isn’t working is to change the battery. But what to do if your key ring no longer works after changing the battery? The first thing you need to do is figure out what’s going on.

Without knowing why a key fob isn’t working after a battery change, there’s no way we can recommend a solution. But once you figure out what’s wrong, you can find your solution too.

Reasons for a key fob not working after a battery change include:

frequently asked Questions

How do I find out what battery my key fob is using?

To find your car key battery, open your fob. If there is a battery inside, there will likely be engraving starting with CR followed by a series of numbers. With no battery or engraving, consult your owner’s manual or search online for your car’s make, model and year.

Will my key fob work again if I replace the battery?

The most likely reason for a key fob not working is a dead battery. That being said, there are more serious issues your key fob could have. If you have a key fob that isn’t working after a battery change, you may need to replace the key fob or even repair some type of car door lock.

How do I know if changing my key fob battery will fix my car key?

A good indication that a car key is not working due to a dead battery is if the key does not work under any circumstances. All buttons are equally ineffective on all door locks. No lights flash when buttons are pressed, indicating no signal is being sent. However, the replacement tag works perfectly.

What do I do if my key fob doesn’t work after changing the battery?

If your key fob isn’t working after a battery change, check that your locks are working properly before proceeding with replacing car remotes. Also check that you have not accidentally deprogrammed your key fob.

Can you fix a key fob that stopped working after a battery change?

While replacing the battery may be the quickest fix when a remote control isn’t working, it’s certainly not your only solution available. Check whether your real problem is with the key fob or with the car. After finding the underlying problem, repair or replace the defective parts.

1. Worn buttons

The worn buttons on a remote control can be the reason why a key fob does not work after a battery change. Buttons on a key fob use contacts that send signals to a circuit board when the button is pressed. The contacts can wear out, or the buttons can wear out so they don’t touch the contacts.

The most obvious sign of a worn button is when the plastic has fallen apart exposing the contact. Without a visual indicator, you must use contextual cues. For example, a key fob will not unlock any doors but the lock button will work, you may have a worn unlock button.

It’s always a good idea to test a replacement remote and see if the problem persists with a different key. If two fobs have the same problem, the reason your fob isn’t working after a battery change is likely not a worn button or a contact issue.

Symptoms:

Pressing buttons sometimes works, but not always.

Buttons can function when pressed in a specific way.

One button works, another doesn’t.

Solutions:

Replace the remote control housing.

Replace the car key.

2. Broken locks

The cause of a key fob not working after a battery change may have nothing to do with the key fob. You may have a car door stuck in the locked position or need to repair car door latches. In any case, the problem could be that part of the lock has broken.

The best way to determine if a broken lock is the cause of your problem is to check if the remote control works to open or lock one or more doors. Sometimes several door locks can fail at the same time, but if they fail one after the other, it is also a sign that your key is not to blame.

If a car door will not open from either the inside or the outside, this is a good indication that no work needs to be done on the key fob. Locks that don’t move no matter how tampered with are broken locks. Aside from doors, you may also come across the need for trunk lock repair.

It’s not a good idea to neglect your car door locks. If the doors don’t open properly, it’s a major safety hazard. And if your locks don’t close reliably, your security suffers. Be sure to repair your locks as soon as damage begins to affect usability.

Symptoms:

The remote control opens some door locks and not others.

Indicator lights will flash to indicate a signal is being sent without the doors opening.

Door locks visibly move without fully engaging or disengaging.

Locks will not open or lock with the key or when tampered with directly.

Solutions:

Repair of car locks.

Replace car lock.

3. Deprogramming

If a car remote doesn’t work after changing the battery, chances are it’s been deprogrammed. Deprogramming refers to instances where the vehicle’s onboard computer has been procedurally instructed to remove all existing keys from its access list.

Deprogramming can be done by pressing buttons on the remote control. Certain key sequences can send a message to the on-board computer to invalidate any existing keys. If more than one fob stops working after a battery change, deprogramming may occur.

Some key fobs can be programmed to multiple vehicles. These keys have a sequence that changes which vehicle the fob opens. It is possible for your key fob to be accidentally placed in an unprogrammed duplicate key state.

You can check online or your owner’s manual to see if this is a feature of your car. If this is the case, see if you can reprogram your key yourself. Keep in mind that programming the key fob may require professional tools if you don’t have a spare key.

Symptoms:

A vehicle has a self deprogramming or reprogramming process.

Replacement remote doesn’t work either.

The key fob suddenly stopped working.

Solutions:

Self-programming (in limited cases)

call locksmith

Contact dealer

4. Damaged key

For this item, “damage” refers to damage done to the key fob outside of normal wear and tear caused by repeated instances of normal use. This type of damage can be caused by water, blunt force impact, scratches on the circuit board, etc.

You should suspect that a damaged key is the reason your key fob is not working after a battery change if the key fob suddenly stops working after being opened, stepped on or gotten wet. Damage can be visible, but not in all cases.

Unlike a key with worn buttons, a damaged key will need to be replaced entirely. For this reason, if you have a damaged key, you are likely to incur higher key fob replacement costs. If your problems are only due to damage to the case, a partial replacement may be an option.

Symptoms:

Problems arise after sudden damage to the key.

Key is visibly broken off.

Keys don’t move.

A spare key works.

Solutions:

housing replacement.

Complete key fob replacement.

5. Electrical problems

In more serious cases, the cause of a key fob not working after a battery change can be damage to the vehicle’s electrical system. This can happen after the vehicle has been serviced where the dashboard trim or side panels have had to be removed and reinstalled.

As the panels are removed, wires are exposed. They can be unknowingly damaged or separated during maintenance or when reattaching the panels. If you just performed this type of work before your key fob started responding, look for other electrical malfunctions.

Other electrical faults that can accompany key fob problems include the car horn now working, lights not coming on, etc. Fixing this type of problem is beyond what an auto locksmith service offers. An auto mechanic has more training and supplies to solve common electrical problems.

Symptoms:

The car has other electrical malfunctions.

The problems started after the wiring was exposed, edited, or otherwise accessed.

Solutions:

Reconnect cable.

Replace damaged wires.

final considerations

When it comes to a key fob that doesn’t work after a battery change, the solutions become a bit more complex. However, you can always reduce this complexity by calling a locksmith. Mobile locksmith services allow a professional technician to come to you and solve your key fob problem.

In many cases, the simplest solution is to replace your car key’s remote control, but not if the problem is with the locks or the electrical system. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please leave a contact below.

Between a dealer and a locksmith, the dealer generally costs more. It is not uncommon for twice as much as the locksmith would charge. Locksmith will also cost you less time with no hidden or additional fees. The dealer has a huge showroom to maintain and a locksmith only has his small shop. So they can pass the savings on to you. The locksmith is also a specialist. They handle both the remote controls and the keys associated with starting and securing your vehicle. If there are any tricks or difficulties that any car can exhibit, they will be able to address them more quickly than a dealer who doesn’t encounter them every day.

The keyless shop in the car locksmith’s shop, specializing in the programming of car remote controls and key fobs. We stock almost all brands and models of car keys and can program them while you wait.

Call us at 800-985-9531 or email us at [email protected] to get a quote and get the best price on your auto locksmith needs.

Well, that depends on several factors. The cost of programming car keys can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle and whether you are taking it to the dealer or your local auto mechanic. Car key programming ranges from $50 to $500 on the low end. The dealership is usually more expensive than your local auto mechanic.

The Keyless Shop specializes in programming car keys and car remote controls. Call us today and have your key fobs and car remotes programmed quickly and at affordable prices.

This is what The Keyless Shop usually charges for key programming:

Programming transponder keys starts at $50-$75.

This includes keys for GM, Ford, Dodge, Honda, Toyota, Nissan.

Hi. You can reprogram a key fob to another vehicle as long as the key for the vehicle is the same. In this case, if the key fits in the doors and unlocks them, you need to do the following:

Remove the battery from the key fob and reinsert it (unless you are installing a new battery).

Disconnect the battery cables from the vehicle, wait 30 seconds, and then reconnect them (reset the computer).

Insert the key in the ignition and turn the key to the “ON” position.

Turn the key to the “OFF” position.

Turn the key to the “ON” position and lock the door with your hand and the remote control at the same time.

Turn the key to the “OFF” position.

Turn the key to the “ON” position and unlock the door with your hand and the remote control at the same time.

Turn the key to the “OFF” position.

Remove the key from the ignition lock.

Put the key in the driver’s door

Unlock and lock the door with the key and simultaneously press the lock and unlock buttons on the fob – (do this 3 times).

Take the key out of the door and with the door closed try to unlock the doors with the remote control.

If the doors lock, put the key in the ignition and try to start the engine.

If the engine starts after these steps, the key fob has been successfully reprogrammed to your vehicle. If the key doesn’t start the engine or lock the doors, the key may be different altogether and you would need to get a new key. If you need further help with your keyless entry system, contact a professional, e.g. B. one from Your Mechanic who will help you.

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Here are the programming instructions for a 2011 Ford F250 key fob remote. If you need an additional key fob or replacement fob for a vehicle, visit us at Keylessentryremotefob.com. You can also leave comments or suggestions at the bottom of this blog. If you like what we offer, please forward it to your friends and family and share it using the social media icons below. People like you are our best advertising medium! ORDER THIS Key Fob PART NUMBER HERE: 8L3T-15K601-AB 1. Close all doors, then open the driver’s door. Press the unlock button on the driver’s door while the door is open. Put the key in the ignition lock. Keep foot off brake pedal.2. Switch the ignition from Off to Run 8 times and end in Run (Do not start the car, the Run position is just before the vehicle starts. Off will be turned all the way back when the key can be removed from the ignition). Must be done within 10 seconds. The locks will cyclically signal that they are entering programming mode.3. Press any button on the remote control to be programmed to confirm the programming. Repeat this step for all additional remote controls.4. Turn the key to OFF, the locks will exit programming mode. Having trouble programming the remote or just want a professional to program the remote for you? Enter your city or zip code in the search box below to find a professional key fob installer near you. ENTER YOUR CITY NAME TO FIND A PROFESSIONAL KEY FOB INSTALLER NEAR YOU

You must have two working remote control keys (keys to start your car) to perform this procedure. If you only have one working key, or none at all, it will need to be programmed by a dealer or locksmith.

1. Insert an existing (working) key into the ignition cylinder.

2. Turn the ignition cylinder ON (position 3) and back OFF (position 1). The ignition should remain in the ON position for at least three seconds but no longer than ten seconds.

3. Remove the existing key and WITHIN TEN SECONDS insert a second working key and turn it ON then OFF again. The ignition should remain in the ON position for at least three seconds but no longer than ten seconds.

4. Remove the second key, before twenty seconds have elapsed, insert the new (unprogrammed) key and turn it ON. Leave it in the ON position for at least six seconds and switch it back to OFF.

5. If the new key is successfully programmed, it will start the vehicle and operate the remote keyless entry system. Theft indicator will illuminate for three seconds to indicate the key has been successfully programmed.

If the new key is not programmed successfully, repeat steps 1-4. If the remote part of the remote has not been programmed but the key starts the vehicle, please follow the procedure below to program the remote part of your remote head key

Remote control part of the key fob (only if the above procedure did not program the remote control)

Get all the remote controls for this vehicle. There is no need to reprogram your working remote control buttons as they will continue to work. If you are programming additional non-remote head key fobs to your vehicle, they must all be programmed during this procedure. You can program up to four remote controls in addition to your remote control buttons.

Do not step on the brake pedal during the process.

1.Turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN 8 times within 10 seconds, the 8th time ending in RUN. The door locks will be cycled through to confirm programming mode. (OFF is the position where you can remove your key, RUN is the position just before your car starts.)

2.Within 20 seconds, press any button on the first keyless remote to be programmed. The door locks will be cycled through to confirm the programming. If you only have one remote, skip to step 4.

3. Press any button on the second keyless remote within 20 seconds. The door locks will be cycled through again to confirm the programming. Repeat step 3. for all other remote controls.

Hi. You can reprogram a key fob to another vehicle as long as the key for the vehicle is the same. In this case, if the key fits in the doors and unlocks them, you need to do the following:

Remove the battery from the key fob and reinsert it (unless you are installing a new battery).

Disconnect the battery cables from the vehicle, wait 30 seconds, and then reconnect them (reset the computer).

Insert the key in the ignition and turn the key to the “ON” position.

Turn the key to the “OFF” position.

Turn the key to the “ON” position and lock the door with your hand and the remote control at the same time.

Turn the key to the “OFF” position.

Turn the key to the “ON” position and unlock the door with your hand and the remote control at the same time.

Turn the key to the “OFF” position.

Remove the key from the ignition lock.

Put the key in the driver’s door

Unlock and lock the door with the key and simultaneously press the lock and unlock buttons on the fob – (do this 3 times).

Take the key out of the door and with the door closed try to unlock the doors with the remote control.

If the doors lock, put the key in the ignition and try to start the engine.

If the engine starts after these steps, the key fob has been successfully reprogrammed to your vehicle. If the key doesn’t start the engine or lock the doors, the key may be different altogether and you would need to get a new key. If you need further help with your keyless entry system, contact a professional, e.g. B. one from Your Mechanic who will help you.

If you want to program a new transponder key but don’t have your car’s original key, here are some tips on how to do it.

For security reasons, the remote control key contains a microchip that uses radio waves to activate your vehicle’s ignition system. Without these signals, the ignition will not turn on, which will get you in trouble if you lose the key or have to order a new one. However, you can learn how to program a transponder key without having the original key at hand.

To program the remote control key, insert it into the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Once you receive the security warning, you must wait 15 minutes before proceeding. When the light goes out, you have to repeat the process a total of three times until the key is programmed.

In this guide we take a closer look at what the remote control key is and how it works. We’ll also walk you through the steps and show you how to program it without having the original handy. Our article also touches on the cost of purchasing and programming a new remote control key.

Steps to program a transponder key without original

Here are some simple steps to program your remote control key without the original key if you bought a new key from the dealer. This only works on some car models and in some cases you may need more advanced diagnostic tools. However, these steps are simple and free to try, so do this before calling your authorized dealer. Switch on the ignition Sit in the driver’s seat and insert the key in the ignition. Turn the ignition to the ON position. The security light should come on. If you don’t see the security light, there may be a problem with the car battery. Test the voltage and charge if necessary. Use a car battery charger to ensure the voltage remains stable throughout the process. Wait The security light must remain on for 15 minutes. Don’t mess with the system for at least 15 minutes if you want to program the key. You could set a timer and walk away. After all, there are many things you can do in those 15 minutes of waiting. Power cycle Once you have waited 15 minutes the security light should turn off. You must return to the key within three minutes of this event, so keep a close eye on it. Turn the key to the OFF position and turn it back ON. Here, too, the safety light remains switched on for 15 minutes. Repeat steps The safety light will turn off after about 15 minutes. You will repeat the same actions as in the previous step. Turn the key off and on again. This should bring the security light back on. If you wait another 15 minutes you might be exhausted. However, this should be the last time you need to perform this step.

After following these simple steps for 45 minutes, the key should be generated and ready to use.

Test the key and make sure it starts the car. Just remember that the original key is no longer useful. If you find it after programming a new key, it will no longer work.

RELATED: How to Program a Keychain by Yourself at Home (8 Easy Steps)

Which vehicles use remote control keys?

Almost every brand new car on the market today has a remote control key. All major brands use this technology, including Chevy, Ford, Nissan, Toyota and Chrysler. In addition, the luxury car manufacturers also use transponder keys, so you can find them on Mercedes Benz, BMW, Genesis and Audi models.

If you have an older vehicle, you may also need a remote control key. Ford introduced the technology to more expensive models in 1996, but slowly integrated it across the board over the years. For example, all 2001 Ranger pickups came with remote control keys. Also, the F-150 was made with the remote control key from 1999 to 2003.

Jeep made the transponder key optional starting with the 1998 Wrangler. It wasn’t until 2007 that the Wrangler came standard with the transponder.

RELATED: 5 Signs of a Bad Immobilizer or Remote Key (& Cost of Replacement)

How to tell if you have a transponder key

1. Key Database

The easiest way to find out if you have a remote control key is to check with the retailer. You can also contact a locksmith who keeps a database of car key types.

By providing your vehicle details, the dealer or locksmith can tell you what type of key you have. Each of them is also able to get you a new key.

2. Security light

If your vehicle has a remote control key, there is a security light on the vehicle’s dashboard. On some vehicles, the light shows an image of a lock, but it could also be a key or provide the letters “sec.” You may see this security light on the dashboard.

When you turn on the vehicle, this security light will flash. If the remote control key works, the security light will go off immediately. However, if the transponder needs to be programmed, it will continue to flash.

3. Identification

The side of your key should have an identification number printed with letters and numbers. This is the key identification code. You can use this information to research the key or have a locksmith examine it.

In addition, the transponder key is equipped with a chip that is located in the head. The plastic head is larger than a simple mechanical key and helps you determine if a transponder is included. If all else fails, you can research your car’s model to see if it requires a remote control key.

4. Testing

Locksmiths have special devices that are made just for this purpose. If you can’t figure out what type of key you have, take it with you to test.

The machine can detect whether a transponder is included or not. Also, the locksmith can help you program it if you don’t want to mess with it.

Cost of replacing the remote control key

Each car type requires a different key, but the average cost could range from $125 to $300. You can only buy the key and program it yourself.

However, if you want to avoid the hassle, it might be better to have it programmed for you. While the dealership will handle this, you could save a little money with a local locksmith instead.

frequently asked Questions