You can use a key fob to unlock your car doors and start your vehicle seamlessly. However, a fob can fail, in which case the car will no longer recognize it. Your Ford Expedition may display a 'No Key Detected' error message. If this has happened, don't worry. We researched the issue and have the answers for you.
If you try to use the start button, and the dashboard warning "No key detected" appears, it is possible that:
- The key fob battery is dead
- The key fob is no longer programmed to your vehicle
- Your car battery is weak or dead
- Radio interference low
- Button Loose
Keep reading this article, as we will go into more detail about each potential problem and how to unlock your car when the key fob is not working.
The Key Fob Battery Is Dead
A key fob is a device that will use a lot of energy, and its batteries will not last long. If the battery in your key fob battery is running low, it will not be able to properly interact with the receiver, as the connection might become intermittent.
Key Fob Isn't Programmed Correctly For The Vehicle
To work effectively, you must correctly configure the key fob for the vehicle. If changing the battery in your key fob does not help, the key fob may not have been set up correctly for the car, or your car battery is weak or empty.
Your Car Battery is Weak or Dead
One of the reasons why the car does not recognize your key fob is because the car battery is nearly dead or weak. You should always check your car's battery so you can immediately change it if it's damaged or dead.
Sometimes the problem is not with the key fob but with the car. Modern automotive systems are demanding, which can cause the battery to weaken or die.
A dead or weakened battery will prevent it from responding to the key fob. Charge the battery and consider replacing it when it is old and worn out.
Radio Interference
If your key fob suddenly stopped working, radio interference could be the cause. Wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency as the key fob, such as radar detectors and intruder alarms, can interfere with the signals of the key fob.
Buttons Loose
It is also possible that the problem lies with the buttons. Most key fobs have rubber buttons that can loosen or wear out over time. If one or more of the buttons do not pop out properly or are stuck, you can follow along these steps to fix the buttons:
- Unscrew the case
- Remove the buttons
- Clean them
- Reassemble the key fob.
If this doesn't work, you may need to buy a new key fob.
When Should I Reset My Ford Key Fob?
If you have done each of the solutions above to your Ford key fob and it still does not work, you will need to reset it. You can achieve this by following these steps:
- Remove the key from the ignition and close all doors to the vehicle.
- Put the key in the ignition and withdraw it. Do this six times in ten seconds.
- Put the key in the ignition, turn it to the on position, push the key fob's lock button and release it.
- Turn the car off and take the key out of the ignition. If the reset worked properly, the doors should now unlock and lock.
How Often Should I Change The Battery In My Ford Key Fob?
The battery in a key fob typically does not last a long time, because the device uses a lot of energy. It's a good idea to replace the battery in your Ford key fob every one to two years to make sure it keeps working.
Need to repair or replace your key fob? You may be wondering if you should replace or repair your key fob when it stops working.
Let's see when to fix your key fob and when to replace it.
- Dirty Key Fob - If your key fob is not working properly and is obviously dirty, you should clean it first for a quick and easy repair.
- Dead Battery - If you think your key fob battery is dead, you can easily replace it or have it replaced to keep it working like new.
- Key Fob Replacement Damaged - If your key fob is visibly damaged and no longer working properly, it should be replaced. Even if a battery can get it working again, it's only a matter of time before the damage worsens and necessitates the purchase of a new key fob.
- Battery Replacement - If you tried replacing the battery and cleaning the fob and those steps did not help, you will need to replace it. If there is no apparent damage, your key fob most likely died of old age.
What Battery Type Does My Ford Key Fob Use?
A CR2032 battery is used in most Ford key fobs. This small, coin-sized battery is widely available at hardware stores and online.
Check out This Amazon Basics 4 Pack CR 2032 Battery on Amazon!
How To Replace A Battery In Your Ford Expedition Key Fob?
You would need a CR2032 battery and a flathead screwdriver to replace the battery in your key fob. Here are the following steps:
- Remove the emergency key that's in the bottom of the key fob by pressing the release on the back, then just set aside the emergency key.
- Grab a flathead screwdriver and use it to open up the back cover; look for the battery and use your screwdriver to get under the edge so you can remove it.
- Place the new battery with the plus (+) sign upside down and just put the two halves back together.
- Put your emergency key back in.
As for the key fob for 2018 onwards, it would be the same; however, you may need a different type of battery, a CR2450.
Check out this Duracell 2450 Battery on Amazon!
How Much Will You Pay To Replace A Ford Key Fob?
If you've tried everything and still can't get your fob to work, it's time to replace it. The cost depends on several factors. The most significant factor is whether the dealer does it or you do it yourself.
If you decide to get a replacement key fob from your dealer, the cost can run between $75 to $300. The cost depends on your dealer and on the kind of fob you purchase.
However, if you decide to replace your Ford Expedition key fob, you will probably pay between $20 to $60 for a new one. The cost depends upon where you buy the key fob.
Starting The Ford Expedition With The Backup Slot
If your key is damaged, the first thing to do is determine the nature of the problem and whether it is easier to repair the key fob or replace it entirely.
There are several approaches that can be used. If the key is near metal objects or electrical devices such as cell phones, or the key's battery is dead, the keyless starting system may not work.
If you cannot start your car, try the following:
- Insert the backup key into the backup slot.
- The backup slot's position varies, but in a Ford Expedition, you can find it in the front cup holder, and you need to remove the rubber piece in the bottom.
- Place the key in the backup slot position upside down and the button facing the rear of the vehicle.
- To start your car, press the brake pedal with the key in this position, then the push-button ignition switch.
Can I Lock And Unlock My Ford Expedition Remotely Using The FordPass®* App?
The answer is yes but only in 2018 models up to present. To use the FordPass®* App, your vehicle must have:
- SYNC/Ford Pass Connect
- The vehicle must be activated
- You must add vehicle to the Home Tab to use the Remote features
Steps on how to use the FordPass®* App:
- Open the FordPass®* app.
- Go to the home page.
- Press and hold the unlock or lock button for one second to unlock or lock your vehicle
Summing Up
So that's how you fix the "no key error" of your key fob for your Ford Expedition. The problem will likely be that the key fob is not correctly programmed, the receiver is not working, the key fob battery is low, or there might be an issue with the key fob itself.
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