Lost your Lincoln Navigator car remote or need to program a new one? You might be surprised to learn that you can often program a new remote yourself without a trip to the dealership. This guide provides simple, step-by-step instructions on how to program a new intelligent access key for your Lincoln Navigator, potentially saving you time and money.
Step 1: Preparation is Key for Remote Programming
Before you begin the programming sequence, ensure you have everything you need and understand the process fully. Careful preparation is crucial for successful programming.
- Gather Your Keys: You will need two previously programmed intelligent access keys that currently work with your Lincoln Navigator. You’ll also need your new, unprogrammed intelligent access key readily available. Replacement keys can be purchased from authorized dealers or reputable online retailers.
- Vehicle Readiness: Make sure your Lincoln Navigator’s ignition is switched off completely. Close all doors firmly and ensure they remain closed throughout the entire programming procedure.
- Understand the Timing: It’s important to carry out each step within 30 seconds of the previous one. If you exceed this time or perform any step out of sequence, stop and wait for at least one minute before restarting the process from the beginning.
- Read the Instructions: Familiarize yourself with all the steps outlined below before you start. This will help ensure a smooth and successful programming experience.
Step 2: Initiating the Key Programming Sequence
With your preparations complete, you can now begin the programming sequence inside your Lincoln Navigator.
- Remove the Key Blade: Locate and remove the mechanical key blade from your first programmed intelligent access key transmitter.
- Access the Backup Slot: Open the center console storage compartment lid to access the backup slot. This slot is designed to program your keys.
- Insert First Programmed Key: Insert your first previously programmed intelligent access key fully into the backup slot.
- Press Ignition Button (First Time): Press the push button ignition switch briefly. Do not start the engine.
- Press Ignition Button Again: Wait for five seconds, and then press the push button ignition switch again briefly. Again, do not start the engine.
- Remove First Key: Take the intelligent access key out of the backup slot.
Step 3: Programming with the Second Existing Key
The next steps involve using your second existing programmed key to continue the programming process.
- Insert Second Programmed Key: Within 10 seconds of removing the first key, place your second previously programmed intelligent access key into the backup slot.
- Press Ignition Button (First Time): Press the push button ignition switch briefly (do not start engine).
- Press Ignition Button Again: Wait for five seconds, and then press the push button ignition switch again briefly (do not start engine).
- Remove Second Key: Remove the intelligent access key from the backup slot.
Step 4: Finalizing Programming with the New Remote
Now you will use the new, unprogrammed remote to finalize the process and link it to your Lincoln Navigator.
- Insert New Key: Wait for five seconds after removing the second programmed key. Then, place the new unprogrammed intelligent access key into the backup slot.
- Press Ignition Button: Press the push button ignition switch.
- Programming Confirmation: Once the programming is successfully completed, the information display in your instrument cluster will show a message confirming that the key has been programmed. You will also see the direction indicators flash and hear the horn sound briefly.
Step 5: Test Your Newly Programmed Remote
Congratulations! Programming should now be complete. It’s crucial to test the new remote to ensure it functions correctly.
- Check Remote Functions: Verify that all remote control functions are working as expected. Test the lock, unlock, remote start (if equipped), and panic buttons.
- Start Your Vehicle: Ensure that you can start your Lincoln Navigator using the newly programmed intelligent access key.
If the programming was unsuccessful for any reason, wait for 10 seconds and carefully repeat steps 1 through 7. If you continue to experience difficulties, it is recommended to take your Lincoln Navigator to an authorized Lincoln dealer for professional assistance. They have specialized equipment and expertise to program your remote or diagnose any underlying issues.
