Is your 2012 Ford Explorer Key Fob malfunctioning, or did you recently get a replacement? Luckily, programming a new key fob for your Ford Explorer can often be done right at home without a trip to the dealership. This guide provides clear, easy-to-follow instructions for programming your 2012 Ford Explorer key fob, ensuring you regain seamless access and control of your vehicle. Whether you need to program just the remote functions or a complete remote key combo, we’ve got you covered.
Programming Instructions for Remote Only
This method is for programming the remote control functions (locking, unlocking, panic button) of your 2012 Ford Explorer key fob. Ensure you have all the remotes you intend to program before starting this procedure.
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Enter Programming Mode: Turn your Ford Explorer’s ignition from the OFF position to the RUN position eight times in quick succession (within 10 seconds). Make sure the eighth turn ends in the RUN position. You should hear the door locks cycle (lock then unlock) to confirm that the vehicle has entered programming mode. (OFF is the position where you can remove your key; RUN is the position just before starting the engine).
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Program the First Remote: Within 20 seconds of entering programming mode, press any button on the first keyless remote you wish to program. The door locks will cycle again to confirm successful programming of this remote.
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Program Additional Remotes (If Applicable): If you have more than one remote to program, within 20 seconds of the last confirmation, press any button on the second keyless remote. The door locks will cycle again. Repeat this step for all remaining remotes you need to program.
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Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. The door locks will cycle one last time to indicate that the programming mode has been exited.
Test all programmed remotes to ensure they are working correctly with your 2012 Ford Explorer.
Programming Instructions for Remote Key Combo (Transponder Chip)
This procedure is specifically for programming the transponder chip within a remote key combo. This chip is essential for starting your 2012 Ford Explorer. Important: You must have two previously programmed, original Ford keys to perform this procedure. If you do not have two working keys, you will need to visit a dealership or locksmith for programming.
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Insert First Programmed Key: Insert your first previously programmed and working Ford key into the ignition cylinder.
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Turn to RUN Position and Hold: Turn the ignition from the LOCK position (position 1) to the RUN position (position 3). Keep the ignition in the RUN position for at least 3 seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds.
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Return to LOCK and Remove Key: Turn the ignition back to the LOCK position (position 1) and remove the first key from the ignition.
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Insert Second Programmed Key: Within 10 seconds of removing the first key, insert your second previously programmed and working Ford key into the ignition.
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Turn to RUN Position and Hold (Second Key): Turn the ignition from the LOCK position (position 1) to the RUN position (position 3) with the second key. Keep the ignition in the RUN position for at least 3 seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds.
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Return to LOCK and Remove Second Key: Turn the ignition to the LOCK position (position 1) and remove the second programmed key from the ignition.
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Insert New Key: Within 20 seconds of removing the second programmed key, insert the new, unprogrammed key (the new key or valet key) into the ignition.
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Turn to RUN Position and Hold (New Key): Turn the ignition from the LOCK position (position 1) to the RUN position (position 3) with the new key. Keep the ignition in the RUN position for at least 6 seconds.
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Remove New Key: Remove the newly programmed key from the ignition.
If the new key has been successfully programmed, you should be able to start your 2012 Ford Explorer with it.
Troubleshooting:
- Key Not Programmed? If the new key does not start your vehicle, repeat steps 1-9 carefully.
- Remote Not Working After Key Programming? If the key starts the car but the remote functions (lock/unlock) are not working, perform the “Remote Only” programming procedure outlined in the first section to program the remote portion of your remote head key.
By following these instructions, you should be able to program your 2012 Ford Explorer key fob and remote key combo efficiently. If you encounter any difficulties, it is always recommended to consult your Ford Explorer owner’s manual or seek assistance from a qualified automotive locksmith or Ford dealership.
