Losing or needing a spare key fob for your 2013 Ford Escape can be a hassle. Fortunately, Ford provides a few key programming procedures, each with different requirements and levels of accessibility. Understanding these options can save you time and money, ensuring you get back on the road quickly. According to the Ford Workshop Manual, there are primarily three methods to program a key for your 2013 Ford Escape. Let’s explore each of these in detail.
Option 1: Key Programming Using Diagnostic Equipment
This method, as described in the Ford Workshop Manual, involves using specialized diagnostic equipment and the online “TOOL BOX” system. This system is typically exclusive to Ford dealerships. The significant advantage of this procedure is that it allows a new 2013 Ford Escape Key Fob to be programmed even if you don’t have any already programmed keys.
Key Points:
- Requires Dealer Access: This procedure necessitates a visit to your local Ford dealer due to the need for their diagnostic tools and secure online access.
- No Existing Keys Needed: If you’ve lost all your 2013 Ford Escape key fobs, this is the viable option to get new ones programmed.
- Online “TOOL BOX”: Ford dealers utilize a proprietary online system called “TOOL BOX” for secure key programming and other vehicle diagnostics.
Option 2: Key Programming Using Two Programmed Keys
For 2013 Ford Escape owners who already have two functioning, programmed key fobs, there’s a more convenient, do-it-yourself (DIY) option. This procedure, outlined in the workshop manual, doesn’t require diagnostic equipment or dealer intervention. You can potentially program an additional 2013 Ford Escape key fob yourself, provided you have the necessary two original keys and the new key has the correct mechanical cut.
Key Points:
- DIY Possibility: This method can be performed by the vehicle owner without special tools or dealer visits.
- Two Existing Keys Required: You must have two already programmed keys that work with your 2013 Ford Escape to use this procedure.
- Correct Mechanical Cut: The new 2013 Ford Escape key fob must be mechanically cut to match your vehicle’s ignition.
Option 3: Erase All Keys and Key Programming
In situations where the maximum of eight keys has been programmed for your 2013 Ford Escape, or if all keys are lost and you want to start fresh, there’s an “Erase All Keys and Key Programming” procedure. This, like Option 1, requires dealer diagnostic equipment and access to the “TOOL BOX” system. It effectively resets the key memory, allowing you to program a new set of keys.
Key Points:
- Dealer Procedure: This is another procedure that requires a Ford dealership visit due to the need for specialized equipment.
- Resets Key Limit: This option is useful when the 8-key limit has been reached or when dealing with lost or compromised keys.
- Minimum Two Keys for Reprogramming: Even when erasing all keys, the procedure requires at least two keys with the correct mechanical cut for reprogramming, though they don’t need to be pre-programmed.
It’s important to note that regardless of the programming method, the “correct mechanical cut” is crucial. This means the key must physically turn the ignition to the “run” position. Also, any newly programmed 2013 Ford Escape key fob will have full “admin” rights initially. If you wish to set restrictions on a particular key, you can utilize the “MyKey” system through your vehicle’s menu settings.
For detailed instructions and further information, you can access the Ford Workshop Manual (for a fee) at Motorcraft Technical Resource, specifically section 419-01B. Remember that access to the “TOOL BOX” system mentioned in these procedures is restricted to authorized Ford dealerships and requires a dealer-specific security code.
By understanding these 2013 Ford Escape key fob programming options, you can choose the most appropriate path to get your key situation resolved efficiently.
