Is your 2018 Ford F150 Key Fob looking a little worn out, or perhaps you just want an upgrade? Replacing your key fob can be a great way to freshen things up, and you might be surprised to learn you can program a new one yourself, potentially saving time and money. This guide will walk you through the process, drawing on real-world experiences from Ford F150 owners.
Finding the Right Replacement Key Fob
When it comes to getting a new key fob for your 2018 Ford F150, you have a couple of options. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) key fobs, like the one discussed in a popular Ford truck forum, ensure compatibility and quality. These can often be found online from reputable sources. For example, one user sourced a new OEM key fob for their Raptor model from eBay. While this specific example is for a Raptor, the same principle applies to all 2018 F150 models. Sourcing online can sometimes offer better prices than dealerships.
New Raptor branded key fob for a 2018 Ford F150, showcasing the upgrade from a standard key.
DIY Key Fob Programming for Your 2018 F150
If you already have two working programmed keys for your 2018 Ford F150, you’re in luck! You can program a new key fob yourself without needing to visit a dealership. The process is surprisingly straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. Here’s a user-reported method that has worked for F150 owners:
- Insert the first working programmed key into the backup position (usually the ignition).
- Press the Start/Stop button with your left hand.
- Count to three or four seconds.
- Press the Start/Stop button again.
- Quickly swap the first programmed key with the second programmed key.
- Press the Start/Stop button again.
- Count to three or four seconds.
- Quickly swap the second programmed key with the new, unprogrammed key fob.
- Press the Start/Stop button again.
- Wait for the door locks to cycle and the dashboard to display a “Key Programming Successful” message.
This method, shared by a forum user, highlights the ease of DIY programming when you have two existing keys. Always ensure you follow the steps carefully for successful programming.
Key Cutting: Locksmith or Dealership?
Once your new 2018 Ford F150 key fob is programmed, you’ll likely need to get the physical key cut. While dealerships can handle this, they often come with higher costs. Many owners have found success and cost savings by using local locksmiths. One user reported a dealership quote of around $180 for cutting and programming, which drastically reduced to $120 when they mentioned the key was already programmed – still a high price for just cutting the key. Locksmiths, on the other hand, can often cut the key for around $40, as another user experienced.
It’s worth calling a few local locksmiths to inquire about their key cutting services for Ford F150 keys. Some locksmiths might be more familiar with these types of keys than others, so it’s good to ask if they have experience with Ford vehicle keys.
What If You Only Have One Working Key?
The self-programming method described above relies on having two existing programmed keys. If you only have one working key for your 2018 Ford F150, the process becomes a bit more complex. In such cases, you might need to visit a dealership or a locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program a key with only one existing key. Alternatively, some advanced users have explored using tools like FORScan, which might offer DIY programming options even with just one key, but this typically requires more technical knowledge and equipment.
Conclusion
Upgrading or replacing your 2018 Ford F150 key fob can be a straightforward process. By sourcing an OEM key fob online and utilizing the DIY programming method (if you have two existing keys), you can save both time and money. Remember to get your key cut by a locksmith for a cost-effective solution. Having a functional key fob is crucial not just for vehicle access but also for features like remote start and even accessing your spare tire, making this a worthwhile maintenance task for any Ford F150 owner.
