Navigating the world of car key fobs, especially remote start functionalities, can be confusing. If you’re a Ford Fusion owner wondering about your remote start key fob, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will clarify the differences between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket remote start systems for your Ford Fusion, helping you understand your key fob and troubleshoot potential issues. We’ll focus specifically on the “Ford Fusion Remote Start Key Fob” and what you need to know.
Decoding Your Ford Fusion Key Fob: OEM vs. Aftermarket
One of the first steps in understanding your Ford Fusion’s remote start is identifying whether it’s a factory-installed (OEM) system or an aftermarket addition. This distinction is crucial because it affects the type of key fob you use and how you might troubleshoot problems.
Factory (OEM) Remote Start Systems:
For Ford Fusion models, particularly from 2016 onwards, factory remote start systems are typically integrated directly into the main key fob. This means your standard key fob, the one you use for locking, unlocking, and starting your car normally, will also have buttons to activate the remote start feature. These integrated key fobs usually have multiple buttons, often including a dedicated remote start button depicted by a circular arrow symbol.
If your Ford Fusion came with remote start directly from the factory, you likely have a multi-button key fob that controls all vehicle access and remote start functions.
Ford Accessory Remote Start Systems:
It’s also possible your Ford Fusion has a Ford Accessory remote start system. These systems are genuine Ford products but are installed after the vehicle’s initial production, often at the dealership. While still a Ford product, they might not be integrated into the standard key fob in the same way as a factory-installed system.
Accessory systems can sometimes use a separate, single-button remote specifically for remote start. This separate fob would work in conjunction with your standard Ford Fusion key fob used for everyday vehicle access. Identifying an accessory system can sometimes be trickier, but the presence of a standalone remote start fob is a strong indicator.
Aftermarket Remote Start Systems:
Aftermarket remote start systems are installed by third-party companies after the car has left the factory or dealership. These systems offer a wide range of features and key fob configurations. If your Ford Fusion has an aftermarket system, it could also use a separate, single-button remote, a multi-button remote that’s different in style from the OEM fob, or even integrate with a smartphone app.
A key piece of information to note is that “switchblade style” keys, while popular, were generally not factory OEM keys for Ford vehicles. These were often aftermarket keys purchased and programmed separately. If you have a switchblade key, it’s highly likely it’s an aftermarket addition.
Identifying Your Ford Fusion Remote Start Key Fob Type
To determine what type of “ford fusion remote start key fob” you have, consider these points:
- Number of Fobs: Do you have two separate fobs – one for regular access and one single-button remote for remote start? This suggests a Ford Accessory system or an aftermarket system. If you only have one standard multi-button key fob that handles everything, it’s more likely a factory OEM system.
- Key Fob Buttons: Examine your standard key fob. Does it have a remote start button (circular arrow symbol) integrated with the lock, unlock, and panic buttons? If so, it’s likely an OEM integrated system.
- Vehicle Year: For Ford Fusion models 2016 and newer, factory remote start was typically integrated into the multi-button key fob. For older models, separate systems were more common, even from Ford.
- Owner’s Manual: Your Ford Fusion owner’s manual is a valuable resource. It should describe the factory remote start system if your car was equipped with it. Check the section on remote start or key fobs for details on operation and key fob types.
Troubleshooting Your Ford Fusion Remote Start Key Fob
If your “ford fusion remote start key fob” isn’t working correctly, here are a few basic troubleshooting steps you can try:
- Check the Basics: Ensure your Ford Fusion is in Park (P) and that all doors, hood, and trunk are securely closed. Remote start systems are designed with safety features and will not activate if any of these conditions are not met.
- Key Fob Battery: A weak battery in your key fob can cause intermittent or complete failure of the remote start function. Try replacing the battery in your key fob with a new one. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on battery replacement.
- Reprogramming Your Key Fobs: Sometimes, key fobs can lose their programming link to the vehicle. Your owner’s manual should contain instructions on how to reprogram your key fobs to your Ford Fusion. This is often a simple process involving turning the ignition on and off and pressing buttons on the key fobs in a specific sequence. While reprogramming might not fix all issues, it’s a worthwhile step to try, especially if you suspect the key fob and remote start system are OEM or Ford Accessory.
Important Note: Reprogramming is most likely to be effective for OEM or Ford Accessory systems. Aftermarket systems may have different programming procedures, and you may need to consult the aftermarket system’s documentation or installer.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting and your “ford fusion remote start key fob” still isn’t working, it might be time to seek professional help. Consider contacting:
- Ford Dealership: A Ford dealership service department can diagnose issues with factory OEM or Ford Accessory remote start systems. They have specialized tools and knowledge to troubleshoot these systems.
- Automotive Locksmith: A qualified automotive locksmith can often diagnose and repair key fob and remote start system problems, especially if you suspect key fob issues or programming problems. They can also assist with aftermarket systems in some cases.
- Aftermarket System Installer: If you know you have an aftermarket remote start system, contacting the company that installed it or a specialist in aftermarket car electronics might be the best approach.
Understanding your “ford fusion remote start key fob,” whether it’s OEM, Ford Accessory, or aftermarket, is the first step in resolving any issues you might be experiencing. By following these guidelines and troubleshooting steps, you can gain better control over your Ford Fusion’s remote start functionality.
