What frequency is the Ford key radio?

Ford key fobs typically operate at 315 MHz in North America and 433.92 MHz in Europe; some newer models or specific markets may use around 868 MHz. The key’s immobilizer transponder, which authenticates the key at startup, uses a different low-frequency band (around 125 kHz).

Regional frequencies for Ford key fobs

Regional differences determine the radio frequency used by a Ford key fob. The following are the most common configurations you’ll encounter.

• United States and Canada: 315 MHz


• Europe and many other markets: 433.92 MHz


• Some newer models or specific markets: around 868 MHz

In practice, these frequencies cover the vast majority of Ford remote keys. Always verify with your vehicle’s documentation or dealer if you’re replacing a remote or programming a new one.

Understanding the two main radio channels in a Ford key

A Ford key contains two separate radio systems: one for the remote lock/unlock and engine start, and another for the immobilizer that powers up the engine authorization process. They operate on different frequency bands and serve distinct security roles.

• Remote keyless entry frequency (MHz): 315 MHz (US/Canada), 433.92 MHz (Europe), or 868 MHz (some newer models/regions)


• Immobilizer transponder frequency (kHz): about 125 kHz

The remote frequency handles convenience features like lock/unlock and remote start, while the immobilizer frequency powers the engine authentication when you insert or bring the key near the start sensor.

Finding the exact frequency for your vehicle

To confirm the precise frequency for your specific Ford, use these methods:

• Check the owner’s manual or the underside of the key fob for any frequency markings or regulatory IDs (such as an FCC ID in the United States).


• Look up the FCC ID (US) or equivalent regulatory markings to confirm the nominal frequency band used by your remote.


• Contact a Ford dealer or service department with your vehicle’s VIN; they can confirm the exact frequency used for your model and market.

Because frequencies can vary by model year and region, verifying through official documentation or a dealer is the safest approach.

Summary

Ford key fobs do not use a single universal frequency. The most common bands are 315 MHz in North America and 433.92 MHz in Europe, with some models using around 868 MHz in certain markets. The key’s immobilizer operates separately at about 125 kHz. For replacement remotes or programming, confirm the exact frequency via the owner’s manual, regulatory markings on the fob, or by contacting a Ford dealer with your VIN.

What radio frequency do key fobs use?

You can find a key fob's frequency by checking for a sticker on the fob, using a dedicated RF frequency tester, or using an SDR (Software-Defined Radio) with spectrum analysis software. Another method involves measuring the antenna's physical length, though this provides a less precise estimate. 
1. Look for a sticker on the fob 

• Open the key fob by separating the case, which may require removing a small screw or prying the halves apart. 
• Look for a sticker inside with the frequency listed, typically in MHz (e.g., 433433433 MHz or 315315315 MHz). 

This video shows how to open a key fob to find a sticker: 54sSecurity in mindYouTube · Apr 10, 2024
2. Use an RF frequency tester 

• Purchase a remote key fob frequency tester, which can be found on sites like Amazon or through auto parts stores.
• Place the key fob near the tester and press a button.
• The tester's display will show the frequency in MHz. 

You can watch this video to see how a key fob frequency tester works: 59sAnthonyJ350YouTube · Jan 23, 2018
3. Use a Software-Defined Radio (SDR) 

• Connect an SDR dongle to your computer.
• Install and run SDR software like GQRX or SDR#.
• Press a button on the key fob while the software is monitoring the radio spectrum.
• Look for a brief spike or jump in the signal to find the frequency. You may need to manually scan up or down by a few megahertz to find the signal. 

This video demonstrates how to use SDR to find a key fob's frequency: 56sNoisy HackerYouTube · Apr 18, 2021
4. Measure the antenna (Less precise) 

• Disassemble the fob to expose the antenna, which is often a thin, flexible wire or a printed circuit on the inside. 
• Measure the total length of the antenna wire or trace, accounting for any bends or curves. 
• Use online calculators and formulas that relate antenna length to frequency (typically for a quarter-wave or half-wave antenna) to get an approximate frequency. 

What signal does a car key give off?

radio frequency (RF)
Key fobs emit signals in a simple way using a technology called radio frequency (RF). Inside the key fob, there is a small electronic device that contains a transmitter. When you press a button on the key fob, it sends a signal to the receiver in your car or another device.

How do I get my Ford key code?

So we're only in accessory mode. No feet on the brake pedal to start it up. Take do the same. Thing. Press it down slide it in hit accessories again.

How do I know my car key frequency?

You can figure out what frequency your key fob transmits on using your SDR and use GQRX or SDR# to monitor the spectrum. When you push a button on the fob, you should see a brief jump in the spectrum. You may need to shift the frequency band up or down by a couple of MHz to find the signal, mine was almost 2.5 MHz low.