Ford Owner Help · Keys
How to Start a Ford with a Dead Key Fob Battery
Unlock with the hidden key, set the fob in the backup spot, and press Start with your foot on the brake.
Need a new fob? → request one from our Parts Center
Start It with a Dead Fob
- Pull out the hidden key. Slide the release latch on the fob and pull the mechanical key straight out.
- Unlock the driver's door with it. The alarm may sound. That is normal, and the next steps shut it off.
- Set the fob in the backup start spot. See the table below for your model.
- Press Start with your foot on the brake. It may take two presses. Once the engine is running you can take the fob back out.
Where the Backup Start Spot Is
| Model | Backup start spot |
|---|---|
| F-150 / F-Series (console shifter) | Bottom of the cupholder farthest from the dash, under the rubber mat |
| F-150 (bench seat, column shifter) | Storage bin under the center flip-up seat |
| Explorer (2020+, bucket seats) | Rear cupholder, under the mat |
| Explorer / Fusion (older, console) | Center console near the AUX / USB ports |
| Escape / Edge | Center console |
| Expedition | Front cupholder, under the mat |
| Mustang Mach-E | Front of the center console, or use your passcode on the touchscreen |
Buttons usually face up or toward the rear. If it will not start, flip the fob and try again, and confirm the exact spot in your Owner's Manual.
Replace the Fob Battery
Most recent Ford fobs take a CR2032 coin cell. Some use a CR2450 or CR2025, so check the number on the old battery first. Pop the fob open at the seam, swap the cell with the + side matching, and snap it shut. A new battery does not erase your key programming.
When It's a Shop Job
If a fresh battery doesn't bring the fob back, the contacts may be worn or the fob may need replacing and programming. Lost your only key? We cut and program Ford keys and fobs in-house, backed by our 3-Hour Diagnosis Guarantee, with free pickup and delivery within 20 miles of Keyport.
Need a replacement fob or battery? Send a parts request with your VIN and we'll match the right genuine Ford fob.
Dead Key Fob: FAQs
Where is the backup start spot on my Ford?
It varies by model: often the cupholder (F-150), the center console (Escape, Edge, older Explorer), or the bin under a flip-up bench seat. See the table on this page.
Why did my alarm go off when I used the key?
That is normal when you unlock with the mechanical key. Put the fob in the backup spot and press Start to silence it.
What battery does my Ford key fob take?
Usually a CR2032. Some take a CR2450 or CR2025. Check the number on the old battery before you buy.
Will a new fob battery erase my key programming?
No. Swapping the coin cell does not affect pairing.
How do I get the mechanical key out of the fob?
Slide the small release latch and the key pulls straight out.
Can I take the fob out of the slot after it starts?
Yes. The backup spot is only needed to start. The fob can be anywhere in the cabin while you drive.
How long does a Ford fob battery last?
Typically two to three years.
The fob still won't work with a new battery. Now what?
Check the battery orientation and contacts and try a second new battery. If it is still dead, the fob may need replacing and programming.
The information on this page is provided as a general guide for Ford owners, for convenience only. Procedures, locations, and specifications vary by model, year, and trim and may change over time. Always follow your vehicle's Owner's Manual, which takes precedence over anything on this page. These steps are not a substitute for professional service, and some can risk personal injury or vehicle damage if done incorrectly — proceed at your own risk, and contact a qualified technician if you are unsure. Tom's Ford assumes no liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from use of this information.