Are you having trouble with your 1996 Ford Explorer key fob? Perhaps it’s stopped working, or you need to program a new one. Understanding the process for 1996 Ford Explorer Key Fob Programming is essential for vehicle owners. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to get your key fob functioning correctly with your classic Explorer.
It’s important to note that not all Ford key fobs are interchangeable, especially across different model years. For your 1996 Ford Explorer, remotes from newer F-series trucks (1998 onwards) will not be compatible. To ensure you have the correct key fob, look for specific identifiers on the back of your remote. Key fobs compatible with your 1996 Explorer will typically have the following specifications:
- FCC ID: GQ43VT4T
- DOC: 1470 K763
- TRW INC Part Number: 3165189
These identifiers are crucial when sourcing a replacement key fob for your vehicle. Using the correct FCC ID and part number will ensure compatibility and simplify the programming process.
The key fob with FCC ID GQ43VT4T is known to be compatible with a range of Ford vehicles from the mid-1990s. This includes, but is not limited to:
- 1993-1997 Ford Explorer
- 1993-1997 Mercury Mountaineer
- 1994-1997 Ford F-Series (F150, F250, F350)
- 1994-1996 Ford Bronco
- 1992-1998.5 Ford Econoline
- 1997 Ford Expedition
- 1993-1997 Ford Probe
- 1995-1998 (Not 1998.5) Ford Windstar
If your 1996 Ford Explorer falls within these year ranges, you can confidently use a key fob with the specified FCC ID.
Now, let’s get to the programming. The following steps outline how to program your 1996 Ford Explorer key fob:
Programming Instructions:
Before you begin, ensure that your vehicle’s anti-theft system is disarmed. All key fobs you intend to use with your vehicle must be programmed at the same time during this procedure.
- Cycle Ignition: Turn your ignition key from the OFF position to the RUN position five times in rapid succession (within 10 seconds). Leave the ignition in the RUN position after the fifth turn.
- Confirmation: If the programming mode is successfully entered, your vehicle’s doors will automatically lock and then unlock. This confirms that the RAP (Remote Anti-theft Personality) module is ready for programming.
- Program Key Fob: Press any button on the key fob you wish to program. Upon successful programming of each key fob, the doors will lock and then unlock again to provide confirmation. Repeat this step for each key fob you need to program.
- Troubleshooting: If the door locks do not respond after pressing a button on the key fob, wait a few seconds and try pressing the button again. If there’s still no response, consult a professional or your vehicle’s service manual for further diagnosis.
- Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. Alternatively, the system will automatically exit programming mode if no key fobs are programmed within five minutes after step 2. Once programming mode is exited, the doors will lock and unlock one final time to confirm the process is complete.
By following these instructions, you should be able to successfully complete the 1996 Ford Explorer key fob programming process. Always double-check the FCC ID and part numbers to ensure compatibility before purchasing a replacement key fob. With the right key fob and these programming steps, you can regain the convenience of keyless entry for your 1996 Ford Explorer.
