How to Reset MyKey in Ford? We Explain

MyKey options in Ford allow you to personalize your driving experience. In this article, you will learn how to reset MyKey easily. The article explains MyKey technology in Ford models, including the configurable and non-configurable settings. You will also learn how to troubleshoot MyKey issues if the resetting or programming guidelines fail.

Car software settings problems highlights

• Howcommon:very common
• Main reasons:hard-to-operate software, glitch, hardware issues
• DIY diagnosis:possible
• DIYrepair:possible
• Solutions:resetting, learning how to set, asking for professional help
• Can you drive?yes
• Price in dealership:$150 - $250

What is MyKey in Ford?

MyKey in Ford lets you control your car's driving mode to promote safety and cautious driving. The availability of this technology depends on your car model. The restrictions are essential for a shared family Ford, especially when allowing teenagers to drive. You can use MyKey options to restrict the top speed, low-fuel warnings, radio content, and maximum volume.

MyKey restrictions also help companies promote responsible driving among their drivers. When you program MyKey options and insert it into the ignition, anyone who drives your Ford must drive within your restrictions. The driver cannot change the settings or deactivate the programmed MyKey. Hence, you will always have peace of mind when another person, including young or hired drivers, drives your car. 

MyKey options are available in specific Ford models. Check your owner's manual for MyKey technology to configure your Ford into your desired driving settings.

How to Reset MyKey in Ford

You may need to reset MyKey settings when sharing your car with teenage drivers or other family members. Reprogramming is also necessary if you move to a new city or town with different traffic rules. Your settings must allow you or the designated driver to abide by speed rules to avoid accidents or breaking the law. 

The resetting steps are simple: you can reset a key as often as you wish until you get the best driving experience.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to reset your key:

1. Open the car with an admin key and keep it around.
2. Insert the key that you wish to reset into the ignition. Some Ford models come with push-button or keyless start. If your car has this feature, insert the intelligent access key you are resetting into the backup slot.
3. Go to the information display control. Use the left arrow to navigate the menu until you get to "Settings."
4. Scroll down the setting until you see "MyKey." A new menu will pop up with a "Create MyKey" option.
5. Select "Create MyKey" and then click "OK." The system automatically selects and labels the key in the ignition or backup slot.
6. The restriction settings are activated and applied every time you or another driver turns on the vehicle.

If you need to change any settings in the reset key, turn on the car with an admin key. Navigate to the MyKey Menu, select the specific feature that needs change, and make the desired changes.

Which Settings Can You Configure With MyKey?

When you enable MyKey technology in your Ford, you can configure some settings with an admin key. However, you cannot adjust some settings, even with an admin key. First, let us look at the configurable settings.

• Speed limit

You can set a speed limit for your car with MyKey. For instance, you can set the maximum speed at 65, 75, or 80 miles per hour. Remember to observe the traffic rules in your city or destination when setting the speed limit.

If the driver attempts to accelerate beyond the set speed, the system will send warnings on the information display and then give an audible warning. It is impossible to override the restrictions with cruise control or the accelerator pedal.

• Audio volume

You know how young drivers enjoy loud music on the road, which often offends other road users. You can restrict such behavior with MyKey by setting the audio system to a maximum volume of 45%. The system will send an alert on the display if the driver exceeds the limit. The system will also disable any speed-sensitive volume controls.

• Safety features

MyKey in Ford restricts drivers from turning off essential safety features, such as Advance Trac, Park Aid, Emergency Assist, or 911 Assist. If your Ford model has such aids and the always-on feature is enabled, the drivers cannot disable the safety settings.

• Radio content

If the satellite radio labels some channels as explicit, you can use MyKey to block the channels. You do not have to worry about your kids listening to explicit content when enjoying a family trip. 

Non-Configurable MyKey Settings

An admin key allows you to override, reset, program, and clear other created keys. However, the admin key cannot change the default settings, which include the following.

• Low fuel and low charge warnings
• Automatic restrictions on adult content on satellite radio
• Safety belt reminders
• Driver Assist Features

How to Troubleshoot MyKey Issues

The setting and resetting procedures work when your Ford MyKey is functioning properly. The solution to any key issues you may experience depends on the cause. Here are some of the common problems and possible causes.

You cannot create MyKey settings:

• The key you used to start your vehicle lacks admin privileges
• The key you used to start the car is the only admin key. The system needs at least one admin key
• The SecuriLock passive anti-theft system is unlimited or disabled
• If your car has keyless start, you did not place the intelligence access key in the backup slot

You cannot program or clear configurable settings:

• The key you used to start your vehicle lacks admin privileges
• You have not created any key

MyKey Distances fail to accumulate:

• Existing MyKeys were cleared, and new keys were created with an admin key
• The MyKey system was reset
• MyKey user is not using the configured settings

MyKey does not work when you insert a key:

• The admin key is in the car start
• You have no programmed MyKeys

Most issues are easy to fix when you identify the underlying cause. However, contact an authorized Ford dealer for assistance if you experience issues beyond this list or cannot fix any issues at home. In addition, you can buy a new admin key from an authorized dealer if you lose an admin key.

Conclusion

You can reset MyKey options easily from the information display. Start the car with an admin key and insert the key you wish to reset into the ignition. Go to the settings on the display menu, and select MyKey. Click on Create MyKey option and then OK.

You can use the previous settings or adjust the settings on the same menu. Remember to select settings that enable you and other drivers to abide by the traffic laws in your city.