Are you tired of the basic, unimpressive OEM keys that came with your Ford Escape? Many Ford Escape owners share this sentiment and look for better alternatives. Upgrading to a stylish and functional flip key is a popular choice. If you’ve purchased an aftermarket flip key for your Ford Escape and are wondering how to get it working, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through the process of programming your new key to control both the remote functions and the ignition, allowing you to start your vehicle with ease.
Programming Your Ford Escape Remote Key Functions
This section will guide you through synchronizing the remote button functions of your new key fob with your Ford Escape’s system. This process allows you to use the buttons on your key to lock, unlock, and utilize other remote features of your vehicle.
Here are the steps to program the remote functions:
-
Open the Driver’s Side Door and Unlock: Begin by opening the driver’s side door of your Ford Escape. Once open, press the unlock button located on the door panel.
-
Ignition Cycle (8 Times): Insert your key into the ignition. Turn the key from the OFF (I) position to the RUN (III) position repeatedly, doing this a total of eight times. It’s crucial to turn the key to the RUN position, which is just before starting the engine – do not start the car. After the eighth cycle, return the key to the OFF position.
-
Confirmation Beep: If the process is followed correctly, your Ford Escape will emit a quiet beep. This beep is your confirmation that the vehicle has successfully entered programming mode and is ready to learn new remote commands.
-
Remote Synchronization: Within ten seconds of hearing the confirmation beep, press any button on each remote you wish to program. This includes both your new aftermarket keys and any original keys you still possess. Each time you press a button on a remote, you should hear a beep from the vehicle, confirming that the signal from that remote has been recognized and programmed. Make sure to press a button on all remotes you want to work with your car during this step.
Programming Your Ford Escape Ignition Key for Starting
After programming the remote functions, you’ll need to ensure your new key is recognized by the Ford Escape’s immobilizer system to start the engine. This process typically requires having two already working keys.
Follow these steps to program the ignition recognition:
-
Insert and Turn First Working Key: Insert your first working Ford Escape key into the ignition. Turn the key to the RUN position (without starting the engine) and then turn it back to the OFF position. Remove the key.
-
Insert and Turn Second Working Key: Immediately insert your second working Ford Escape key into the ignition. Again, turn the key to the RUN position and then back to OFF. Remove this second working key.
-
Insert and Turn the New Key: Now, insert the new key that you are programming into the ignition. Turn this new key to the RUN position. If the programming is successful, your Ford Escape will recognize the new key, and you will be able to start the vehicle. Turn the key back to the OFF position and remove it.
-
Repeat for Additional Keys (If Needed): If you have more new keys to program for ignition, repeat steps 1-3 for each additional key.
By following these instructions, you should be able to successfully program your aftermarket flip key to both remotely control your Ford Escape and start the engine. Enjoy the enhanced functionality and style of your upgraded key!