Lost your spare key fob or need to program a new one for your 2011 Ford vehicle? It’s a common issue, and fortunately, Ford has made it possible to program additional keys yourself, provided you meet certain conditions. This guide will walk you through the process of programming a 2011 Ford Key Fob, ensuring you get back on the road with a working set of keys.
Before you begin, it’s crucial to understand that for self-programming, you will need two previously programmed, working keys. These are keys that currently start and operate your 2011 Ford vehicle. If you only have one working key or none at all, you will need to visit an authorized Ford dealer or a qualified locksmith for programming. This procedure is outlined in your 2011 Ford Owner’s Manual, typically on page 159, which also covers the remote entry functions.
Here’s how to program a spare key for your 2011 Ford using the two existing programmed keys method:
Step-by-Step Programming Instructions
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Prepare Your Keys: Ensure you have your two original, working Ford keys and the new, unprogrammed key blank readily available. The new key blank will need to be cut to match your vehicle’s ignition.
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Insert First Programmed Key and Turn Ignition ON: Insert your first working, programmed key into the ignition cylinder. Turn the ignition from the “Off” (position 1) to the “On” position (position 3). Maintain the ignition in the “On” position for at least one second, but no more than 10 seconds.
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Turn Ignition OFF and Remove First Key: Turn the ignition back to the “Off” position (position 1) and remove the first programmed key from the ignition.
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Insert Second Programmed Key and Turn Ignition ON: Within three seconds, but no more than 10 seconds after removing the first key, insert your second working, programmed key into the ignition cylinder. Turn the ignition from the “Off” position to the “On” position. Again, maintain the ignition in the “On” position for at least one second but no more than 10 seconds.
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Turn Ignition OFF and Remove Second Key: Turn the ignition back to the “Off” position and remove the second programmed key from the ignition.
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Insert New Unprogrammed Key and Turn Ignition ON: After three seconds, but within 10 seconds of removing the second programmed key, insert your new, uncut and unprogrammed key into the ignition cylinder. Turn the ignition from the “Off” position to the “On” position. Keep the ignition in the “On” position for at least one second, but again, no more than 10 seconds.
Alt text: 2011 Ford key fob with remote buttons for lock, unlock, panic, and trunk release.
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Programming Completion: If the programming is successful, your new key will now be programmed to your vehicle. To program additional new unprogrammed keys, simply repeat steps 1 through 6.
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Test the New Key: Remove the new key from the ignition and attempt to start your 2011 Ford. If the vehicle starts, the key has been successfully programmed. Also test the remote entry functions to ensure they are working correctly.
Important Considerations:
- Key Cutting is Necessary: Before programming, ensure your new key blank is properly cut to match your vehicle’s ignition. A key that is not correctly cut will not work, even after successful programming.
- Maximum Keys: A maximum of eight keys can be programmed to your 2011 Ford vehicle.
- SecuriLock Keys Only: Only Ford SecuriLock keys are compatible with your vehicle’s immobilizer system and can be programmed.
- Troubleshooting: If the programming procedure is not successful, double-check that you are following each step precisely and within the specified timeframes. If issues persist, consult your 2011 Ford Owner’s Manual or seek assistance from a Ford dealer or a qualified automotive locksmith.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to program a new key fob for your 2011 Ford. This process provides a convenient way to add a spare key without the need for specialized tools or a trip to the dealership, assuming you have the necessary two programmed keys. Always prioritize accuracy and patience when performing these steps to ensure successful key programming.
