How do I turn off the speed limit on my Ford Explorer?
The speed limiter can usually be disabled or adjusted within the vehicle’s Settings—either in the instrument cluster or on the SYNC touchscreen. The exact path varies by year and trim.
Modern Explorers rely on GPS-based speed limit data and road signage to cap your speed. You may choose to disable it for off-road testing or personal preference, but turning off safety features can raise safety risks and may violate local laws or void warranties. This guide explains how to locate and change the setting, plus important caveats.
Where the setting is located
There are two common ways to access the limiter, depending on your vehicle’s configuration: via the instrument cluster and via the central touchscreen. The steps below cover both paths.
Instrument cluster controls
Use the steering wheel controls to navigate the speed-limiter option on the digital driver information display.
- Open the Settings or Vehicle menu on the driver information display using the left/right toggle on the steering wheel.
- Scroll to Intelligent Speed Limiter or Speed Limiter and select it.
- Toggle the limiter to Off, or set the maximum speed to unrestricted if your model offers that option.
- Exit the menu and confirm the change if prompted.
Disabling via the instrument cluster generally disables GPS-based speed caps, but you should still obey posted limits and local laws.
SYNC touchscreen controls
Access the limiter through the central touchscreen, typically under Vehicle settings.
- From the home screen, tap Settings, then Vehicle, then Driver Assist or Speed Limiter.
- Find Intelligent Speed Limiter or Speed Limiter and switch it Off, or set the limit to No Limit if the option exists.
- Confirm the change and exit the menus.
Some software versions require disabling Intelligent Speed Limiter in conjunction with GPS or sign-based limits. After changing the setting, test at a safe, legal speed to ensure the feature is off.
Safety, legality, and warranty considerations
Turning off the speed limiter increases the risk of speeding and can reduce the vehicle’s ability to adapt to changing road conditions—such as curves, construction zones, or school zones. In many jurisdictions, exceeding posted speed limits is illegal, and modifying safety features can affect warranty coverage or insurance. If in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or a Ford dealer before disabling the feature.
Troubleshooting: what if you can't find the option?
If you don’t see a speed-limiter option, it may be due to a different model year, software version, or trim level. Check the manual for your exact configuration or contact Ford support or a dealership for guidance. Some markets display the feature under a different name (for example, Intelligent Speed Control), so searching the manual by terms like Speed Limiter or Speed Assist can help.
Summary
Most Ford Explorers allow you to disable or adjust Intelligent Speed Limiter through either the instrument cluster or the SYNC touchscreen, though names and paths vary by year and trim. Always weigh safety and legal considerations before turning off the feature, and consult the manual or dealer if you are unsure of the steps.
How do I turn off the speed limiter on my Ford Explorer?
The system is operated by adjustment controls mounted on the steering wheel. Press LIM CNCL/OFF to set the limiter in standby mode. The information display prompts you to set a speed. Press LIM CNCL/OFF with the limiter in standby mode to turn the system OFF.
How to remove Ford speed limiter?
To remove a Ford speed limiter, you can either use a professional diagnostic tool like Ford IDS to reprogram the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) or, on some models, adjust the "MyKey" settings through the instrument cluster. For professional removal, a mechanic uses a tool like the Ford VCM II to access the programmable parameters and disable the limiter, while clearing any error codes afterward. If your vehicle has the "MyKey" feature, you can clear these settings using an admin key by navigating through the vehicle's settings menu.
Method 1: Professional reprogramming (e.g., using Ford IDS)
This method is used for factory-installed speed limiters that are not part of the "MyKey" system.
- Access the programming menu: Connect the diagnostic tool (like a VCM II) to the vehicle and launch the Ford IDS software.
- Navigate to the speed limiter settings: Go to the "Toolbox," then "Module Programming," followed by "Programmable Parameters" and "Speed Items".
- Disable the speed limiter: Select "Vehicle Speed Limit (PCM)" and choose the option to "Disable Speed Limiter".
- Complete the reprogramming: Follow the on-screen instructions to erase the old data and program the new calibration. Cycle the ignition on and off as prompted.
- Clear error codes: After programming is complete, clear any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may have been set.
This video demonstrates how to remove the speed limiter using Ford IDS software: 59sTool Hut USAYouTube · Dec 25, 2024
Method 2: Clear "MyKey" settings
This method is for vehicles that use the "MyKey" system to create a speed-limited key.
- Start with an admin key: Turn on the vehicle using a key that is not a "MyKey".
- Access the settings: Use the steering wheel controls to navigate to the "Settings" menu on the information display.
- Find MyKey: Scroll to and select the "MyKey" option.
- Clear MyKey: Choose the "Clear MyKey" option and then press and hold the OK button until a message confirms that all MyKeys have been cleared.
You can watch this video to learn how to clear MyKey settings: 56sShaners Mechanic LifeYouTube · Jul 27, 2025
This video shows how to clear the speed limiter from MyKey settings: 58sDIYrepair CornerYouTube · Jan 24, 2023
Important considerations
- Professional help: If you are not comfortable with the technical steps, it is best to have a qualified mechanic or dealership perform the procedure.
- Vehicle variations: The exact steps and menu options may vary depending on the Ford model and year.
- Potential consequences: Disabling the speed limiter can cause excessive wear on the vehicle's components, potentially leading to costly repairs.
How to turn off speed limit warning Ford?
If you hold down the LIM button the speed limiter. You'll see on the dash. Hold for speed warning. On. And that turns it off speed warning is now off.
How do I remove MyKey restrictions from my Ford?
To remove MyKey restrictions from your Ford, start the vehicle with an admin key (the original key), go to Settings, then Vehicle, then MyKey on the SYNC screen, and select Clear MyKey. You will need to follow the on-screen prompts and press and hold "OK" until the "All MyKeys Cleared" message appears to erase all settings.
This video demonstrates how to clear MyKey settings on a Ford vehicle: 54sLocksmith Chronicles (Urban Lock N Key)YouTube · Aug 14, 2022
Step-by-step guide
- Start the car: Begin with an admin key. This is the key originally used to program the vehicle, and it's required to make changes to MyKey settings.
- Access Settings: On your SYNC or information display screen, navigate to the main menu and select Settings.
- Navigate to MyKey: From the Settings menu, select Vehicle, and then find and select MyKey.
- Clear MyKey settings: Select the option to Clear MyKey.
- Confirm the action: Follow the on-screen instructions. You will need to press and hold the OK button until a confirmation message, such as "All MyKeys Cleared," appears on your display.
- Turn off the vehicle: Turn the engine off to save the changes. Both your keys will now be admin keys without any restrictions.
What if I don't have the admin key?
This video explains what to do if you don't have the admin key to remove MyKey restrictions: 48sStudent LessonYouTube · Jun 20, 2025
If you cannot find the admin key, you may need professional help.
- Contact a locksmith: A qualified automotive locksmith can access the system to clear the MyKey settings for you.
- Visit a Ford dealership: Alternatively, a Ford dealership can help you disable the MyKey system.
