Losing or needing a spare key fob for your 2013 Ford Fusion can be a stressful situation. Fortunately, Ford allows owners to program their own key fobs under certain conditions, potentially saving you a trip to the dealership and associated costs. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to program a spare integrated keyhead transmitter for your 2013 Ford Fusion, directly referencing the procedure outlined in the owner’s manual.
Understanding Your 2013 Ford Fusion Key Fob System
Before you begin, it’s important to understand the type of key fob your 2013 Ford Fusion uses. The model discussed here is the “Integrated Keyhead Transmitter,” which combines the key and remote functions into one unit. Ford’s SecuriLock system is also relevant, as the programming procedure addresses both the engine immobilizer and the remote entry functions. Keep in mind that you can program up to eight coded keys for your vehicle, and all of them can be integrated keyhead transmitters.
Step-by-Step Programming Guide for 2013 Ford Fusion Key Fobs
If you have two already programmed keys, you can program a new key yourself. Here’s the official procedure for 2013 Ford Fusion Key Fob Programming:
- Insert First Programmed Key: Place your first, already working key into the ignition.
- Turn Ignition ON (3-10 Seconds): Switch the ignition from the “off” position to the “on” position. It’s crucial to keep the ignition in the “on” position for at least three seconds, but no longer than ten seconds. Note: “On” position means the ignition is switched on but the engine is NOT started.
- Turn Ignition OFF and Remove Key: Switch the ignition back to the “off” position and remove the first key from the ignition.
- Insert Second Programmed Key (Within 10 Seconds): Within ten seconds of turning the ignition off, insert your second, already working programmed key into the ignition.
- Turn Ignition ON Again (3-10 Seconds): Switch the ignition from “off” to “on” again, holding it in the “on” position for three to ten seconds.
- Turn Ignition OFF and Remove Second Key: Turn the ignition off and remove the second programmed key.
- Insert New Unprogrammed Key (Within 10 Seconds): Within ten seconds of removing the second programmed key, insert the new, unprogrammed key you wish to program into the ignition.
- Turn Ignition ON (At Least 6 Seconds): Switch the ignition from “off” to “on” and leave it in the “on” position for at least six seconds.
- Remove New Key: Remove the newly programmed key from the ignition.
After completing these steps, test the new key. If the 2013 Ford Fusion key fob programming was successful, the new key should start the engine and operate the remote entry system. If it doesn’t work, wait ten seconds and carefully repeat steps 1 through 8.
Troubleshooting Common 2013 Ford Fusion Key Fob Programming Issues
Some users have reported issues with this programming procedure. A common problem is receiving a “no key found” message, even when following the steps correctly. One potential reason, as mentioned by some discussions, is that dealerships might disable the owner programming feature, requiring you to pay for dealership programming services.
It’s important to ensure you are correctly interpreting the “ON” position as ignition on, engine off. This distinction is especially relevant for Ford Fusion Energi models where the engine doesn’t start in the traditional sense during ignition.
If you encounter persistent problems with 2013 Ford Fusion key fob programming, and you are certain you have followed the procedure correctly, it is advisable to contact an authorized Ford dealer for assistance.
The Importance of Spare Keys
Having spare keys, especially for vehicles with transponder or integrated key fobs, is highly recommended. Programming a spare 2013 Ford Fusion key fob yourself, when possible, can be a significant cost saving measure compared to dealership programming. Proactively obtaining a third key immediately after purchasing your car is a wise practice. This ensures that if you lose one key, you can still program a replacement without the added expense and inconvenience of going to the dealer. Maintaining multiple keys provides peace of mind and avoids potential lockout situations and dealership programming fees in the long run.
In conclusion, programming your 2013 Ford Fusion key fob at home is possible if you have two existing programmed keys and follow these steps carefully. If you encounter difficulties, consider potential troubleshooting steps, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a Ford dealership if needed.
