Are you looking to add the convenience of remote start to your 2011 Ford F-150? You’re in luck! Many owners of the 2011 F-150 are surprised to learn that adding remote start functionality is often much simpler and more affordable than dealerships might lead you to believe. If you’ve been quoted hefty prices and long installation times, you might be getting steered in the wrong direction. Let’s dive into how you can easily upgrade to a 2011 Ford F-150 key fob with remote start and potentially save yourself a significant amount of money and time.
Many Ford F-150 owners desire the comfort of starting their vehicle remotely, especially in extreme weather conditions. Imagine hopping into a pre-cooled truck on a scorching summer day or a warm, defrosted cabin in the winter. For the 2011 Ford F-150, this isn’t just a dream – it’s a readily achievable upgrade, often through a plug-and-play system. The key is understanding the right parts and avoiding unnecessary dealership markups.
One common misconception is that adding remote start to a 2011 Ford F-150 is a complex, time-consuming process requiring extensive labor. Dealerships sometimes quote several hours for installation, leading to inflated costs. However, for many 2011 F-150 models, particularly the XLT trim, the process is surprisingly straightforward thanks to Ford’s plug and play remote start kit.
This kit simplifies the installation dramatically. Instead of requiring extensive wiring and modifications, the plug-and-play system is designed for easy integration with your existing vehicle electronics. The core of this upgrade revolves around the correct 2011 Ford F-150 key fob with remote start and the associated module.
The key component you need to look for is the Ford RPO Plug’n Play Remote Start Kit. For the 2011 Ford F-150, the specific part number you’ll want to reference is BC3Z-19G364-A. This kit is designed to be user-friendly and significantly reduces installation time.
An example of a Ford F-150 key fob, similar in style to those included in remote start upgrade kits, highlighting the integrated key and remote functionality.
This kit typically includes:
- Two new Integrated Keyhead Transmitters (IKT) – these are your new 2011 Ford F-150 key fobs with remote start buttons.
- A wiring harness and antenna module that plugs into your vehicle’s existing electrical system.
The installation process generally involves:
- Plugging in the wiring harness/antenna: This is the “plug and play” part. The harness is designed to connect directly into existing connectors in your F-150, usually located under the dashboard.
- Cutting and Programming the New IKT Keys: The new key fobs need to be cut to match your ignition and programmed to your vehicle’s immobilizer system. This step is crucial for security and proper function. Professional key cutting and programming services are usually required, but are often readily available at locksmiths or even some dealerships at a more reasonable price than the initial quote for the entire remote start installation.
- IDS (Integrated Diagnostic System) Activation: After the physical installation, your F-150 will need to be connected to a diagnostic tool, specifically Ford’s IDS, to enable the remote start feature in the vehicle’s computer system. This step configures your truck to recognize and respond to the remote start commands from your new 2011 Ford F-150 key fob with remote start.
While the plug-and-play nature of the BC3Z-19G364-A kit simplifies things, some 2011 Ford F-150 models might require an additional component: the Remote Start Hood Switch Kit (Part Number: BC3Z-19G366-A).
A Remote Start Hood Switch Kit, which may be necessary for certain 2011 Ford F-150 models to ensure the remote start system functions correctly and safely.
The hood switch is a safety feature. It ensures that the remote start system will not activate if the hood is open, preventing accidental starting while someone might be working under the hood. Whether or not you need this kit depends on your specific 2011 F-150 configuration. It’s best to consult your Ford dealer or a reliable automotive parts source to determine if your vehicle requires the hood switch. It is often a small additional cost but crucial for the system’s safety and proper operation.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the cost. The original poster in the forum mentioned being quoted $600 for parts and installation, which is significantly higher than necessary. By sourcing the BC3Z-19G364-A kit yourself and potentially seeking installation from a different source than the quoting dealer, you can drastically reduce the expense.
Based on the information from the original forum post, the parts alone for the Remote Start System, RPO Plug’n Play Kit (BC3Z-19G364-A) were listed around $217, and with installation from the dealership (after negotiation!), the total came to approximately $310. Even factoring in the potential need for the Remote Start Hood Switch Kit (BC3Z-19G366-A), priced around $22, the total parts cost should be significantly less than $600.
The key takeaway is to be informed. Dealerships may not always be aware of or promote the plug-and-play option for the 2011 Ford F-150 remote start upgrade. By knowing the correct part numbers (BC3Z-19G364-A and potentially BC3Z-19G366-A) and understanding the relatively simple installation process, you can confidently approach dealerships or independent installers and negotiate a fair price. You might even be able to handle the plug-in part of the installation yourself, further reducing labor costs and only needing professional help for key cutting and IDS programming.
Upgrading to a 2011 Ford F-150 key fob with remote start doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right information and a little initiative, you can enjoy the convenience of remote start without overpaying. Start by identifying the correct parts, get a realistic quote for key programming and IDS activation, and get ready to enjoy the comfort and convenience of remote start in your Ford F-150.
