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What Fords have keyless entry?

Many Ford models offer keyless entry as a standard or optional feature, allowing drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without a traditional key. This article provides an overview of the Ford models that feature keyless entry technology.


Ford Models with Keyless Entry


Ford has incorporated keyless entry systems into a wide range of its vehicle lineup, from sedans and SUVs to trucks and sports cars. Some of the Ford models that offer keyless entry include:



  • Ford Mustang

  • Ford F-150

  • Ford Explorer

  • Ford Escape

  • Ford Fusion

  • Ford Expedition

  • Ford Ranger

  • Ford EcoSport


These models typically feature a keyless entry system that allows drivers to unlock their vehicle by pressing a button on the door handle or a key fob, without the need to physically insert a key into the ignition.


How Keyless Entry Works in Fords


Ford's keyless entry systems use radio frequency (RF) technology to communicate between the key fob and the vehicle. When the driver approaches the vehicle and presses the unlock button on the key fob, the fob sends a coded signal to a receiver in the vehicle, which then unlocks the doors. Some Ford models also feature a keypad on the door that allows the driver to enter a code to unlock the vehicle, providing an additional layer of security.


In addition to unlocking the doors, keyless entry systems in Fords can also be used to start the engine. Many Ford models feature a push-button start system, where the driver can simply press a button on the dashboard to start the vehicle, as long as the key fob is inside the car.


Benefits of Keyless Entry in Fords


The main benefits of keyless entry in Ford vehicles include:



  • Convenience: Drivers can unlock and start their vehicles without having to fumble for their keys, which can be especially useful in inclement weather or when carrying items.

  • Security: Keyless entry systems provide an additional layer of security, as they use coded signals to communicate with the vehicle, making it more difficult for thieves to gain unauthorized access.

  • Accessibility: Keyless entry can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility challenges, as they can unlock and start their vehicle without having to physically insert a key.


Overall, keyless entry has become a popular and widely available feature in Ford vehicles, offering drivers increased convenience, security, and accessibility.

What Ford vehicles support a phone as a key?


Ford's "Phone as a Key" feature is available on many new models, including all Mustang Mach-E trims, the 2021+ Mustang, EcoSport, and Ranger, as well as various 2021 and newer model years for the F-150, Escape, and Edge. The feature allows you to lock, unlock, and start the car using your smartphone, with requirements including an active Ford account, the FordPass app, a supported phone, and enabled Bluetooth. 
This video demonstrates how to set up Phone as a Key in the FordPass app: 55sCars With SteveYouTube · Oct 22, 2024
Available on a wide range of models 

  • Mustang Mach-E: All trims
  • Mustang
  • EcoSport
  • Ranger
  • F-150 (including Lightning and other 2021+ models)
  • Escape
  • Edge
  • Other 2021 and newer models are being updated to include this feature. 

Requirements to set up Phone as a Key
  • FordPass app: Download the app and have an active account with a logged-in session.
  • Vehicle Connectivity: Your vehicle must be added to the Ford app, and its modem must be activated.
  • Smartphone requirements:
    • Phone: Supported iOS 16.0+ or Android 8.0+.
    • Bluetooth: Must be enabled and at least version 4.2.
    • Security: A passcode, facial recognition, or fingerprint recognition must be set up on your phone.
  • Connectivity Settings: Your vehicle's connectivity settings must be enabled. 



How do I tell if my car has keyless entry?


You can tell if your car has keyless entry by checking for a button on the door handles, seeing if your key fob has lock and unlock buttons, or by doing a simple test: with the fob far away, try pulling the handle; if it won't open, and then opens when you have the fob close by, you have keyless entry. You can also confirm by looking at your owner's manual or contacting the dealership and providing your VIN. 
Physical indicators

  • Key fob: Look for a physical key hidden inside your key fob. If you have to extract a physical key from the fob to manually unlock the door, your car does not have keyless entry. If the fob has no physical key and you must insert it into a slot to start the car, your car has keyless entry and likely a push-button start. 
  • Door handles: Look for a small button on the exterior of the door handles, especially the driver's side. 
  • Push-to-start button: If your car has a push-to-start button instead of a traditional key ignition, it likely has keyless entry. 

How to test for keyless entry
  • Perform the fob-and-door handle test:
    1. Place your key fob at least 25 feet away from your car.
    2. Go to your car and try to open the driver's door by pulling the handle. If the door is locked and won't open, you have a keyless entry system or your car was locked with a separate remote.
    3. Now, put the key fob in your pocket and walk back to the car.
    4. Pull the door handle again. If the door unlocks and opens, your car has keyless entry. 

Other methods to confirm
  • Check the owner's manual: The manual will specify if keyless entry is a feature of your vehicle. 
  • Contact a dealership: Provide them with your car's VIN, and they can look up its original features. 



Did Ford do away with keyless entry?


The so-called SecuriCode was available on most Ford trucks and SUVs, and allowed owners to access their vehicles without needing a key—simply punch in a code, and you're in. But, Ford has quietly removed that factory option from many cars recently—the Bronco Sport, Escape, Explorer, and Maverick included.



What year did Ford introduce keyless entry?


1980
Ford introduced its proprietary keypad system with physical buttons for model year 1980—on the Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Lincoln Continental Mark VI, and Lincoln Town Car—marketed initially as the Keyless Entry System, later as SecuriCode and most recently as the SecuriCode Invisible, the latter where a ...


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Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.