2023 FORD F-150 Keys and Smart Key – How to Use Smart Key

Introduction

Welcome to the 2023 Ford F-150, where cutting-edge technology combines with the famed toughness and dependability that the F-150 series is known for. The development of keys and smart key systems in this period has effortlessly combined convenience and security, raising your driving experience to new heights.

With its upgraded keys and smart key technology, the 2023 Ford F-150 completely redefines the idea of key access. Traditional keys are a thing of the past; the future is here, and it is as sophisticated and advanced as the vehicle it is paired with. These keys offer a look into a new era of vehicle convenience with a design that expertly blends aesthetics and utility.

Keys and Remote Controls

REMOTE CONTROL LIMITATIONS
WARNING: Changes or modifications not expressively approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. The term “IC:” before the radio certification number only signifies that Industry Canada technical specifications were met.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Make sure a valid remote control is within 3 ft (1 m) from the front door handles and rear of vehicle.
The system may not function if:

• The remote control remains stationary for about a minute.
• The vehicle battery has no charge.
• The remote control battery has no charge.
• There is interference causing issues with the remote control frequencies.
• The remote control is too close to metal objects or electronic devices, for example keys or a cell phone.

USING THE REMOTE CONTROL – POLICE RESPONDER

Note: If there is a problem with the remote entry system, make sure to take all remote controls with you to an authorized dealer in order to aid in troubleshooting the problem.

Unlock
Press the button to unlock all doors. See Unlocking and Locking the Doors Using the  Remote Control.

Lock
Press the button to lock all doors. See Unlocking and Locking the Doors Using the Remote Control .

Sounding the Panic Alarm (If Equipped)
Press the button to sound the panic alarm. Press the button again or switch the ignition on to turn it off.

Note: The panic alarm operates regardless of the ignition position.
USING THE REMOTE CONTROL
Use your remote control to access various vehicle systems.

Note: The buttons on your remote may vary depending on the vehicle region or options.

Unlock
Press the button to unlock all doors. See Unlocking and Locking the Doors Using the Remote Control.

Lock
Press the button to lock all doors. See Unlocking and Locking the Doors Using the Remote Control.

Remote Start (If Equipped)
Press the button to remote start. See Remotely Starting and Stopping the Vehicle .

Tailgate (If Equipped)
Press the button to open the tailgate. See Opening the Tailgate Using the Remote Control.

Panic Alarm (If Equipped)
Press the button to sound the panic alarm. See Sounding the Panic Alarm .

OPENING AND CLOSING THE FLIP KEY
Opening Your Flip Key
Press the round button on the remote control to extend the flip key.

Note: Inspect the key blade for debris. Periodically clean with a brush.

Closing Your Flip Key
Press and hold the round button on the remote control to fold the key blade when not in use.

REMOVING THE KEY BLADE

Push the release button on your passive key and pull the key blade out.

SOUNDING THE PANIC ALARM
Press the button to sound the panic alarm. Press the button again, or switch the ignition on to turn it off.
Note: The panic alarm only operates when the ignition is off.

LOCATING YOUR VEHICLE
Press the lock button twice within three seconds. The turn signal lamps flash.

Note: We recommend you use this method to locate your vehicle.

CHANGING THE REMOTE CONTROL BATTERY – POLICE RESPONDER
WARNING: Keep batteries away from children to prevent ingestion. Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or death. If ingested, immediately seek medical attention.

WARNING: If the battery compartment does not securely close, stop using the remote control and replace it as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep the remote control away from children. Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or death.
The remote control uses one coin-type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent.

Make sure you dispose of old friendly way. Seek advice from local authorities about recycling old batteries.

1. Twist a thin coin in the slot of the remote control near the key ring to remove the battery cover.
   Note: Do not remove the rubber cover and circuit board from the front housing of the remote control.
   Note: Do not wipe off any grease on the battery terminals or on the back surface of the circuit board.
2. Remove the old battery.
3. Insert the new battery. Refer to the symbols inside the remote control for the correct orientation of the battery. Press the battery down to make sure you have it fully seated in the housing.
4. Reinstall the battery housing cover onto the remote control.

Note: Replacing the battery does not erase the programmed key from your vehicle. The remote control operates normally.

CHANGING THE REMOTE CONTROL BATTERY -VEHICLES WITH: PUSH BUTTON START
WARNING: Keep batteries away from children to prevent ingestion. Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or death. If ingested, immediately seek medical attention.

WARNING: If the battery compartment does not securely close, stop using the remote control and replace it as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep the remote control away from children. Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or death.
The remote control uses one coin-type 3-volt lithium battery CR2450 or equivalent.

1. Push the release button and pull the key blade out.
   
2. Twist a thin coin under the tab hidden behind the key blade head to remove the battery cover.
   
3. Insert a screwdriver, and carefully remove the battery.
4. Install a new battery with the + facing upward.
5. Reinstall the battery housing cover onto the transmitter and install the key blade.

Dispose of old batteries in an environmentally friendly way. Seek advice from your local authority about recycling old batteries.
Note: Do not wipe off any grease on the battery terminals or on the back surface of the circuit board.

Note: Replacing the battery does not erase the programmed key from your vehicle. The remote control should operate normally.

CHANGING THE REMOTE CONTROL BATTERY -VEHICLES WITH: FLIP KEY
WARNING: Keep batteries away from children to prevent ingestion. Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or death. If ingested, immediately seek medical attention.

WARNING: If the battery compartment does not securely close, stop using the remote control and replace it as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep the remote control away from children. Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or death.

Battery Replacement Procedure
The remote control uses one coin-type 3-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent.
Press the button to release the key blade before beginning the procedure.

1.  Insert a screwdriver, in the position shown and gently push the clip.
2. Press the clip down to release the battery cover.
   
3. Carefully remove the cover.
   
4. Insert a screwdriver as shown to release the battery.
   Note: Do not touch the battery contacts or the printed circuit board with the screwdriver.
5.  Remove the battery.
6. Install a new battery with the + facing up.
7. Replace the battery cover.

Dispose of old batteries in an environmentally friendly way. Seek advice from your local authority about recycling old batteries.

Note: Do not wipe off any grease on the battery terminals or on the back surface of the circuit board.

Note: Replacing the battery does not erase the programmed key from your vehicle. The remote control should operate normally.

REPLACING A LOST KEY OR REMOTE CONTROL
You can purchase replacement keys or remote controls from an authorized dealer. Authorized dealers can program remote controls for your vehicle.

Note: Your vehicle keys came with a security label that provides important key cut information. Keep the label in a safe place for future reference.

PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE CONTROL – VEHICLES WITH: PUSH BUTTON START
General Information
You must have two previously programmed remote controls inside your vehicle and the new unprogrammed remote controls readily accessible. Contact an authorized dealer to have the spare remote control programmed if two previously programmed remotes are not available. Make sure that your vehicle is off before beginning this procedure. Make sure that you close all the doors before beginning and that they remain closed throughout the procedure. Perform all steps within 30 seconds of starting the sequence. Stop and wait for at least one minute before starting again if you perform any steps out of sequence.
Read and understand the entire procedure before you begin.

Note: You can program a maximum of four remote controls to your vehicle.

Note: If your programmed remote controls are lost or stolen and you do not have an extra coded remote, you need to have your vehicle towed to an authorized dealer. Store an extra programmed remote away from your vehicle in a safe place to help prevent any inconvenience. Contact an authorized dealer to purchase additional spare or replacement remotes.
Steps for Programming Your Spare Remote Control

Note: Your vehicle is equipped with one of the following center consoles.

Programming Backup Location

1. Place the first programmed remote in the backup slot inside the cup holder or center console with your foot off the brake pedal, press and release the push button ignition switch.
2. Wait five seconds and then press and release the push button ignition switch again.
3. Remove the remote control.
4. Within 10 seconds, place a second programmed remote control in the backup slot. Press and release the push button ignition switch.
5. Wait five seconds and then press and release the push button ignition switch again. Keep the ignition on for at least three seconds, but no more than 10 seconds.
6. Remove the remote control.
7. Place the unprogrammed remote control in the backup slot and press and release the push button ignition switch.

Programming is now complete. With your foot on the brake pedal, press the push button ignition switch to verify the remote control functions operate and your vehicle starts with the new remote control.
If programming was not successful, wait 10 seconds and repeat Steps 1 through 7. If you are still unsuccessful, take your vehicle to an authorized dealer.

PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE CONTROL – VEHICLES WITH: FLIP KEY
General Information
You can program your own remote control to your vehicle. This procedure programs both the engine immobilizer keycode and the remote entry portion of the remote control to your vehicle.
Only use remote controls with an integrated mechanical key.
You must have two previously programmed coded remote controls and the new un–programmed remote readily accessible. Contact an authorized dealer to have the spare remote control programmed if the two previously programmed coded remote controls are not available.
Read and understand the entire procedure before you begin.
Steps for Programming Your Spare Remote Control

1. Insert the first previously programmed coded key into the ignition.
2. coded key into the ignition. the ignition on for at least three seconds, but no more than 10 seconds.
3. Switch the ignition off and remove the first coded key from the ignition. After three seconds but within 10 seconds of switching the ignition off, insert the second previously coded key into the ignition.
4. 5. Switch the ignition from off to on. Keep the ignition on for at least three seconds, but no more than 10 seconds.
   6. Switch the ignition off and remove the second previously programmed coded key from the ignition.
   7. After three seconds but within 10 seconds of switching the ignition off and removing the previously programmed coded key, insert the new un–programmed key into the ignition.
5. 8. Switch the ignition from off to on. Keep the ignition on for at least six seconds until you hear the door locks cycle.
   9. Remove the newly programmed coded key from the ignition.

The key starts the engine if programming is successful. You can operate the keyless remote entry system with the new remote control with integrated key.
If programming was not successful, wait 20 seconds and repeat Steps 1 through 8. If you are still unsuccessful, take your vehicle to an authorized dealer.
Note: You can program a maximum of six coded remote controls to your vehicle.

KEYS AND REMOTE CONTROLS – TROUBLESHOOTING

KEYS AND REMOTE CONTROLS – INFORMATION MESSAGES

Message	Action
Key Battery Low Replace Soon	Replace remote control battery.

FAQs

Useful Links

View Full PDF: 2023 FORD F-150 Owner’s Manual| Auto User Guide
Download Manual: Ford Vehicle Owner Manuals | Ford