EasyManua.ls Logo

Ford MyKey - User Manual

Ford MyKey
4 pages
Print Icon
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Loading...
1/29/2020 Anti-Theft - Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) - MyKey® Programming - General Procedures • 2012 Ford F-150 • MotoLogic
https://www.motologic.com/car/2012_fd_f-150_4716/article/726d26f798630fd01e8ba900fd66fe86?returnPath=%2Fcar%2F2012_fd_f-150_4716%2Fs
1/4
Report a problem with this article
419-01B Anti-Theft — Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) 2012 F-150
GENERAL PROCEDURES Procedure revision date: 10/31/2011
MyKey® Programming
Program a MyKey®
With Base Message Center
NOTE: After a MyKey® has been programmed, the remaining standard key(s) (the key[s] that is not programmed with the
MyKey® feature) is referred to as an "administrator key(s)" or "admin" key(s). There must always be at least one admin key.
NOTE: The MyKey® feature can be cleared within the same key cycle that it was programmed. Follow the Disable MyKey®
procedure in this section to clear the key of any restricted MyKey® status. If the key has been cycled, an admin key is required
to clear the MyKey® programming.
1. Insert a programmed Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) key into the ignition and turn the key from the OFF to the
RUN position. This key must be the one that is being programmed to the MyKey® restricted status.
2. Press the SETUP button until PRESS RESET TO CREATE MYKEY is displayed.
3. Press and release the RESET button. HOLD RESET TO CONFIRM MYKEY is displayed.
4. Press and hold the RESET button (for approximately 2 seconds) until MARK THIS KEY AS RESTRICTED is
displayed.
5. Wait until KEY RESTRICTED AT NEXT START is displayed, then release the RESET button.
6. The MyKey® feature (standard restricted features) is successfully programmed into this particular key. Make sure it
is labeled for easy identification. If you would like to customize the MyKey® with the audio volume limited, maximum
speed limit, speed alert chimes, and AdvanceTrac® on/off restrictions, refer to Configuring MyKey® Optional
Restricted Features in this section.
If the vehicle is equipped with an aftermarket remote start, also refer to Using MyKey® with Aftermarket
Remote Start Systems in this section.
With Optional Message Center
NOTE: After a MyKey® has been programmed, the remaining standard key(s) (the key[s] that is not programmed with the
MyKey® feature) is referred to as an "administrator key(s)" or "admin" key(s). There must always be at least one admin key.
NOTE: The MyKey® feature can be cleared within the same key cycle that it was programmed. Follow the Disable MyKey®
procedure in this section to clear the key of any restricted MyKey® status. If the key has been cycled, an admin key is required
to clear the MyKey® programming.
Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the Ford MyKey and is the answer not in the manual?

Summary

MyKey Programming

Program a MyKey

Steps to program a MyKey using the vehicle's message center and ignition.

Configure MyKey Features

Details on setting restricted features like speed limits, volume, and AdvanceTrac for MyKey.

Clear MyKey Programming

Procedure to remove all MyKey restrictions and revert keys to admin status.

MyKey with Aftermarket Remote Start

Instructions for integrating MyKey functionality with remote start systems.

Summary

MyKey Programming

Program a MyKey

Steps to program a MyKey using the vehicle's message center and ignition.

Configure MyKey Features

Details on setting restricted features like speed limits, volume, and AdvanceTrac for MyKey.

Clear MyKey Programming

Procedure to remove all MyKey restrictions and revert keys to admin status.

MyKey with Aftermarket Remote Start

Instructions for integrating MyKey functionality with remote start systems.

Overview

The document describes the MyKey® system, an innovative feature designed to promote safer driving habits and provide vehicle owners with greater control over their vehicle's usage. This system allows the owner to program specific keys (MyKeys®) with restricted driving modes, while other keys (administrator keys) retain full functionality. This is particularly useful for parents of new drivers, fleet managers, or anyone who wishes to encourage responsible vehicle operation.

Function Description

The core function of the MyKey® system is to enable the programming of a MyKey® with various restrictions. When a MyKey® is used to operate the vehicle, these pre-set restrictions are automatically enforced. The system distinguishes between MyKeys® and administrator keys. Administrator keys have the ability to create, configure, and clear MyKeys®, ensuring that the primary owner retains full control over the vehicle's settings.

The restrictions that can be applied to a MyKey® fall into two categories: standard restricted features and optional restricted features. Standard restricted features are automatically applied when a key is programmed as a MyKey®. These typically include limitations on certain vehicle functions that are deemed critical for safety. Optional restricted features offer a more granular level of control, allowing the administrator to customize specific aspects of the MyKey®'s operation.

The system is integrated with the vehicle's Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS), ensuring that only programmed keys can start the vehicle. This integration is crucial for the security and proper functioning of the MyKey® system, as it leverages the existing key recognition technology to enforce the MyKey® restrictions.

Usage Features

The MyKey® system offers a user-friendly interface for programming and configuring keys, accessible through the vehicle's message center. The process varies slightly depending on whether the vehicle is equipped with a base message center or an optional message center, but the underlying principles remain consistent.

Programming a MyKey®:

To program a MyKey®, a programmed PATS key (the one to be restricted) is inserted into the ignition and turned to the RUN position. The driver then navigates through the message center menus using the SETUP or arrow buttons. For vehicles with a base message center, this involves pressing the SETUP button until "PRESS RESET TO CREATE MYKEY" is displayed, followed by pressing and holding the RESET button to confirm. For vehicles with an optional message center, the process involves selecting "Settings," then "MyKey," and finally "Create MyKey" from the main menu, confirming with the OK button. Once programmed, the key is marked as restricted, and it's recommended to label it for easy identification.

Configuring MyKey® Optional Restricted Features:

Administrator keys are used to configure the optional restrictions on a MyKey®. This process also utilizes the message center. For base message centers, an admin key is inserted, and the driver presses the SETUP button until "RESET FOR MYKEY SETUP" appears. Pressing the RESET button then allows access to the MyKey® setup menus, where features can be toggled on or off using the RESET button and accepted with the SETUP button. For optional message centers, an admin key is used to navigate to "Settings," then "MyKey," and then to specific features like "AdvanceTrac," "MAX MPH," "Speed Warning," and "Volume Limiter." The left and right arrow buttons are used to configure these settings, and the OK button confirms the selection.

The optional restricted features include:

  • Audio Volume Level: The maximum audio volume can be limited to a pre-determined level (e.g., 45% of the maximum volume). This helps prevent distractions from excessively loud music.
  • Maximum Speed Limit: A maximum speed limit can be set (e.g., 130 km/h or 80 mph). If the MyKey® driver attempts to exceed this speed, a warning will be displayed, and the vehicle's speed will be electronically limited.
  • Speed Alert Chimes: Specific speed alert chimes can be set for various speeds (e.g., 75, 90, or 105 km/h; or 45, 55, or 65 mph). These chimes provide an audible warning when the MyKey® driver approaches or exceeds the selected speed.
  • AdvanceTrac® Control: The AdvanceTrac® (stability control) system can be configured to be always on or to allow the MyKey® driver to turn it on or off. This ensures that critical safety features remain active, promoting safer driving.

Clearing MyKey®:

The MyKey® feature can be cleared, returning all keys to administrator status with no restrictions. This is also performed using an administrator key. For base message centers, the driver presses SETUP until "PRESS RESET TO CLEAR MYKEY" is displayed, then presses and holds RESET until "ALL MYKEYS CLEARED" appears. For optional message centers, the driver navigates to "Settings," then "MyKey," and finally selects "Clear MyKeys," confirming with the OK button. It's important to note that a MyKey® can be cleared within the same key cycle it was programmed without an admin key by following the clearing procedure. However, if the key has been cycled, an admin key is required.

Using MyKey® with Aftermarket Remote Start Systems:

The MyKey® system also provides instructions for integrating with aftermarket remote start systems. An aftermarket remote start system can be programmed as a MyKey®, allowing its operation to be subject to the same restrictions. To program a remote start system as a MyKey®, the vehicle is remote started using the fob, and then the standard MyKey® programming steps are followed. Similarly, to clear MyKey® restrictions when the remote start system is the only admin key, the vehicle is remote started, and then the MyKey® clearing procedure is followed.

Maintenance Features

The MyKey® system itself requires no specific maintenance in terms of physical components. Its functionality is software-based and integrated into the vehicle's existing electronic systems.

The primary "maintenance" aspect for the user involves managing the keys and their programmed status:

  • Key Identification: After programming a key as a MyKey®, it is crucial to label it for easy identification. This prevents confusion and ensures that the correct key is used for the intended driver, maintaining the integrity of the MyKey® restrictions.
  • Administrator Key Management: The system emphasizes the importance of always having at least one administrator key. This ensures that the owner can always access and modify MyKey® settings, or clear all MyKey® restrictions if needed. Losing all administrator keys could potentially lead to a situation where MyKey® settings cannot be changed or cleared without specialized dealer intervention.
  • System Updates: While not explicitly detailed as a user-performed maintenance task, the MyKey® system, being a software feature, would benefit from any potential software updates released by the manufacturer. These updates could enhance functionality, improve security, or address any known issues. Such updates would typically be performed by a dealership during routine service or as part of a recall.

In essence, the MyKey® system is a robust and flexible tool designed to empower vehicle owners with control over driving behavior, contributing to a safer driving environment without requiring complex physical maintenance. Its ease of use and customizable features make it a valuable addition for responsible vehicle management.

Ford MyKey Specifications

General IconGeneral
CategoryAutomobile Accessories
FunctionAllows parents to set restrictions on a car's key to promote safe driving habits.
FeatureEnables setting of speed and audio volume limits, among other safety features.
Speed LimiterYes
Audio Volume LimiterYes, limits audio volume to 45% of maximum.
Seatbelt ReminderYes, mutes audio until seatbelts are fastened.
Early Low Fuel WarningYes
Customizable SettingsYes
Multiple Key SupportYes
Traction Control RestrictionTraction control cannot be deactivated when using MyKey.
ProgrammingProgrammed using the vehicle's infotainment system by an administrator key.

Related product manuals