Ford Mustang V6 and GT 2005-2014: How to Program Keyless Remote

If your keyless remote stops working, there is a good chance you'll be able to fix it without needing to make a trip down to a local Ford dealership or garage for expensive repair work.

By Charlie Gaston - October 2, 2015

This article applies to the Ford Mustang V6 and Mustang GT (2005-2014).

If your keyless remote stops working or starts to only work intermittently (as it is losing functionality as time goes on), don't panic. You won't necessarily need to visit a local Ford dealership, but you will need to complete a few do-it-yourself troubleshooting exercises to see if you can resolve the problem on your own. And in most cases, you will. If for some reason you cannot resolve the problem on your own, don't worry. We've got you covered in that regard as well. We'll explain costs on both sides of the spectrum (e.g., DIY and professional), as well as offer insight into when it might be a good idea to seek outside professional help.

Materials Needed

  • Include sizes such as 3/4" socket

Step 1 – Unlock the car

  • Unlock your Mustang, hop into the driver's seat, and put your valet key into the ignition. Turn the key so it moves from the second position (locked) into the third position (off).
Figure 1. Close your door once you're inside.

Step 2 – Cycle your engine

  • Cycle your engine off and on for a total of eight passes; this should take no more than 10 seconds (maximum). You should end with your engine on.
  • Wait for your doors to lock and unlock, signalling that the programming process is activated and you are now ready to program your first keyless remote.
  • Press any key on your first keyless remote; you must do this within 20 seconds of hearing your doors lock. If you wait long than 20 seconds, you will need to begin again.
  • Wait for your doors to lock and unlock, signalling that your first keyless remote is programmed to your Mustang.
  • Repeat Step 2 for each additional keyless remote that you need to program.
  • Turn your ignition off.
  • Wait for your doors to lock and unlock, signaling that you have exited the programming mode.
Figure 2. You can press any key once the activation process is complete.

Step 3 – Visit a local Ford dealer

  • If after attempting to program your keyless remote(s) you are unable to complete the programming process, it's recommended that you visit your local Ford dealership.
  • Your keyless remote(s) might be so severely damaged that it cannot be re-programmed. This can occur when the motherboard is exposed to water, or the life of the remote expires due to old age or bad contacts.
Figure 3. In some cases, professional assistance is needed.

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