Can I unlock my Ford Explorer with my phone?
Yes. In many Explorers you can unlock your vehicle with a smartphone, either via FordPass remote unlock or the Digital Key/Phone-as-a-Key feature—availability depends on the model year, trim, and regional software support.
What makes phone-based unlocking possible
There are two primary pathways that enable a phone to unlock your Explorer. The exact option available to you depends on your vehicle’s hardware, software, and the region where you own the car.
- Remote unlock through the FordPass app: You use your phone to lock or unlock the doors from anywhere with cellular service, as long as your Explorer has FordPass Connect enabled and you have an active FordPass account linked to the vehicle.
- Digital Key / Phone-as-a-Key: A built-in Digital Key lets you use your compatible smartphone as an actual key to unlock (and sometimes start) the vehicle when you’re near it. This requires a compatible FordExplorer model year and a supported smartphone, plus the Digital Key feature activated in FordPass and the vehicle’s software.
Either path can be highly convenient, but not all Explorers support both options. Availability varies by year, trim, and region, and some features may require a Ford Connected Services subscription or trial period. Always verify compatibility for your exact vehicle configuration with Ford’s official guidance or your dealer.
Using FordPass to unlock remotely
FordPass offers remote features that let you manage door locks from your phone. The steps below outline how to set it up and use it, if your Explorer supports this capability.
- Verify hardware and service: Your Explorer should be equipped with FordPass Connect (the in-vehicle modem). Some features may require an active Connected Services subscription or trial from Ford.
- Install and sign in: Download the FordPass app on iOS or Android and sign in with your FordPass account, or create one if you don’t have one already.
- Link your vehicle: In the app, add your vehicle by entering the VIN or scanning the vehicle’s QR code and complete the linking process to associate your car with your FordPass account.
- Use remote unlock: Once linked, you can use the app to lock or unlock the doors remotely. A network connection (cellular data) is required when you’re not near the vehicle.
- Test and secure: Test the feature while you’re in a safe location to confirm it works. Keep your FordPass credentials secure and enable any available security features in the app.
Remote unlocking via FordPass provides convenience when you’re away from the vehicle, or if the keys are misplaced. Your ability to use this feature depends on the vehicle’s installed hardware and the status of Connected Services in your region.
Digital Key / Phone-as-a-Key compatibility
The Digital Key or Phone-as-a-Key option uses your smartphone as a digital key. This can offer a more seamless experience—unlock as you approach, and in some cases start the vehicle—without pulling out a physical key. Compatibility varies, so check your exact Explorer model year and region.
Compatibility checklist
Before attempting to use a phone as a key, confirm these basics apply to your setup.
- Your Explorer is a model year and trim that supports Digital Key (or Phone-as-a-Key) in your region.
- Your smartphone is a supported device (iPhone or Android) with the appropriate OS version and FordPass app installed.
- FordPass is linked to your vehicle and Digital Key is enabled in the app (and the vehicle’s software is up to date).
- The vehicle has the necessary hardware (Digital Key capable ECU/firmware) and a working data connection, if required by your region.
Once compatibility is confirmed, you typically pair your phone with the vehicle through FordPass, and—depending on your phone and system—use the car’s door handles, the Wallet/CarKey feature on iPhone, or an Android equivalent to unlock. Always follow Ford’s on-screen prompts and refer to your owner’s manual for precise steps for your exact model year.
What you need to know about setup and limits
Phone-based unlocking offers convenience, but setup requirements and limitations vary. Some caveats to keep in mind include:
- Regional availability and feature scope: Digital Key and remote unlock may be restricted to certain regions or markets.
- Subscription and service status: FordPass remote unlock and Digital Key features may require an active subscription or trial period for Connected Services.
- Software updates: Ensure both your vehicle’s firmware and the FordPass app are up to date to maintain compatibility.
- Battery and proximity: Phone-based access relies on proximity or Bluetooth/NFC; keep your phone charged and within the recommended range.
If you’re unsure whether your specific Explorer supports these features, check the vehicle’s manual, visit Ford’s official support pages for Digital Key and FordPass, or contact your local dealer for a definitive compatibility check.
Summary
Many Ford Explorers today can be unlocked with a phone, either via FordPass remote unlock or through the Digital Key/Phone-as-a-Key feature. Availability depends on the model year, trim, region, and whether the vehicle has FordPass Connect and Digital Key activated. If your Explorer supports it, setting up FordPass and enabling Digital Key can provide a seamless, hands-free unlocking experience. If not, you can still rely on the traditional key fob or remote unlock through the FordPass app where supported. Always keep your software up to date and verify features for your exact vehicle configuration.
