Lost your key fob or need to program a new one for your 2013 Ford F-150? You might be surprised to learn that you can often handle the programming process yourself right at home, without a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through the steps for programming your 2013 F-150 key fob, ensuring you regain full access and control of your vehicle.
There are a couple of procedures that Ford vehicles use for key fob programming. While the exact method can sometimes vary, these procedures are commonly effective for models like the 2013 F-150. Before you begin, it’s crucial to remember: do not press the brake pedal at any point during or before either of these procedures.
Procedure A: Using the Ignition and Door Locks
This procedure is a common method for Ford key fob programming and is worth trying first for your 2013 F-150.
Step-by-Step Guide for Procedure A
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Prepare the Vehicle: Ensure all doors are closed. Open only the driver’s side door and press the “Unlock” button on the driver’s side door panel while the door is open. Insert your key into the ignition.
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Enter Programming Mode: This is the key step. Turn the ignition key from the “OFF” position to the “RUN” position eight times within 8 seconds. Make sure the eighth turn ends in the “RUN” position. You should hear the door locks cycle (lock then unlock) – this confirms that your 2013 F-150 has entered programming mode. If the locks don’t cycle, you’ll need to start over from step 1, ensuring you perform the ignition turns quickly and correctly. “OFF” is the position where you can remove your key, and “RUN” is the position right before starting the engine.
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Program the First Key Fob: Within 10 seconds of the door locks cycling, press any button on the first keyless remote you want to program. The door locks should cycle again to confirm that this key fob has been successfully programmed.
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Program Additional Key Fobs (If Necessary): If you have more than one key fob to program, repeat step 3 for each additional remote. Make sure to do this within 10 seconds of the previous programming confirmation (door lock cycle).
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Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position. The locks should cycle one final time, indicating that the programming mode has been exited.
* Troubleshooting Tip: If this procedure doesn’t work initially, try repeating it with the driver’s door closed throughout the entire process. Sometimes slight variations in procedure are needed.
Procedure B: Using Ignition and Seatbelt
If Procedure A doesn’t activate the programming mode on your 2013 F-150, Procedure B offers an alternative method.
Step-by-Step Guide for Procedure B
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Prepare the Vehicle: Fasten your seatbelt and ensure all doors are completely closed.
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Initiate Programming Sequence: Turn the ignition key from the “OFF” position to the “RUN” position four times within a rapid 3-second period.
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Confirm Programming Mode: Turn the ignition back to the “OFF” position. Your 2013 F-150 system should chime to indicate that it has successfully entered key fob programming mode.
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Program the First Key Fob: Within 10 seconds of hearing the chime, press and hold down any button on the first keyless remote you wish to program. The system should chime once more to confirm successful programming of this fob.
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Program Additional Key Fobs: If you have additional key fobs, within 10 seconds of the last chime, press and hold any button on the next keyless remote. The system will chime again to confirm. Repeat for all remotes you need to program.
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Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition key to the “RUN” position. This action should exit the programming mode.
Important Notes for Both Procedures:
- Speed is Key: Perform all steps, especially the ignition turns, in fairly rapid succession. Hesitation can prevent the vehicle from entering programming mode.
- No Confirmation? Start Over: If you don’t get the initial door lock cycle (Procedure A) or chime (Procedure B), it means your 2013 F-150 did not enter programming mode. Remove the key from the ignition, open and close the driver’s door, and begin the procedure again from step 1.
- Refer to Your Owner’s Manual: For the most accurate and vehicle-specific instructions, always consult your 2013 Ford F-150 owner’s manual. The manual will provide the definitive procedure for your specific vehicle.
By following these steps, you should be able to program your 2013 Ford F-150 key fob quickly and conveniently. Enjoy the renewed convenience of your keyless entry system!
