Ford Remote Start Without Button – (3 Easy Method/Techniques)

Remote start is one very function that helps the Ford get ready to roll. You don’t need to be there, press the key fob from anywhere and let your vehicle warm up the engine. The fob should have a separate button to do the job. But what to do if it doesn’t have one? 

The trick is to use FordPass app to get Ford remote start without button if the car has such program integrated into its software. 

You can also try other methods depending on the models and whether it has the system. 

Ford Remote Start Tricks

Here are some of the tricks to start your Ford remotely. 

How To Use Ford Remote Start Without Button?

Even if you don’t have Ford remote start key, it’s still possible to enjoy the benefits. There are 3 ways to start the Ford engine remotely without the button. 

method #1- Ford Remote Start With FordPass App

FordPass app is a straight answer to how to remote start a car without remote start. It lets you start the engine remotely in case the fob doesn’t have any specific button. 

Note that the vehicle has to have such functions and that you need to download the app on your phone. 

• Open the FordPass app. You can use the login information of your Ford owner account or register in case you’re new. 
• Add the vehicle you’re using to the application. 
• On the app, press the button “Activate Vehicle”
• On your vehicle display, there should be a message requesting to “Allow” or “Deny” it. Press “Allow”.
• Now, you should see a “Start Engine” button on the app. Just press and hold it. 

However, it may take 20 seconds to a few minutes to connect to the vehicle and start the engine. Although being a slow process, it’s convenient to get Ford remote start benefits without the button. 

Wanna make it quicker? Then use Alexa, Google, or any digital assistant. Just say “ask FordPass to start my car with pin XXXX” to it and the job will be done within 5 seconds. 

method #2- Ford Remote Start With Other Buttons

Some key fobs may start the engine remotely with a combination of buttons. For that, you don’t even have to have a special Ford remote start fob.

However, it depends on the model and whether the fob and the vehicle have been programmed with such functions. In that case, try any one of the followings.

• Press the “Lock” button thrice within 3 to 5 seconds. This is the most standard way. 
• Press the “Lock” button twice or four times in case the first point doesn’t work.
• Press “Lock-Unlock-Lock”. 

Again, the engine won’t start magically by pressing other buttons if the fob and your vehicle aren’t programmed. You can check the owner’s manual to see if it mentions any combination of buttons or ask an expert. 

Method #3- Ford Remote Start With Kit

Assume your vehicle and the key aren’t programmed with the function. In that case, installing it on your existing fob can be an easy and reasonable upgrade to Ford factory remote start. 

For this, you need to get an aftermarket remote starter kit that’s compatible with your vehicle. 

Let’s say you want a Ford edge remote start bundle, then I’d suggest MPC Remote Starter. You can consider FLASHLOGIC FLRSFO1 for models between 2006 and 2019.

Both are Plug and Play systems. Once installed properly, you need to press the “Lock” button 3 times to remote start the engine. 

Ford Remote Start Function Cost Breakdown

Here’s the cost breakdown of all the factors relating to Ford’s remote start. 

How To Tell If Your Car Has Factory Remote Start?

There are 4 ways to find out whether the vehicle has factory remote start: Arrow logo with 2x on the fob, owner’s manual, an app, and VIN decoder.

1. Arrow Logo With 2x On Ford Key Fob

The fob will have a specific button for such a function. It usually comes with a partial circular arrow symbol and the icon 2X or X2. 

2. Ford Remote Start Feature On Owner’s Manual

If there’s no specific button on the fob, then check the owner’s manual for the feature. It should have information about the factory remote start system and how it works. You should get it easily in the index. 

Almost all the vehicles of 2021 editions automatically come with remote start system. For instance, you’ll find 2021 f250 remote start a standard function. 

I’ve added a list here so you can check the compatibility.

• Ford Ranger
• Ford Edge: Models 2011 and up.
• Ford Mustang Mach E
• Ford Explorer: Models 2011 and up.
• Ford Expedition: Models 2015 and up. 
• Ford Super Duty: Models 2011 and up. 
• Ford Mustang: Models 2015 and up. 
• Ford F-150: Models 2011 and up.
• Ford Taurus: Models 2013 and up.
• Ford Fusion: Models 2014 and up. 
• Ford Flex: Models 2013 and up. 
• Ford Escape
• Ford Bronco
• Ford GT
• Ford Transit Connect
• Ford Transit
• Ford EcoSport
• Ford Bronco Sport

3. FordPass App For Remote Start 

If you didn’t find the special button on Fob, then try Ford remote start app called FordPass. It should show “Start Engine” button if the vehicle has factory remote start system. 

4. VIN Decoder For Ford Remote Start

So, how do I know if my ford has remote start? Simple, check VIN to know that. Every Ford vehicle comes with a unique identifier code that goes by the name VIN. Not only does it provide you with vital info regarding the vehicle but also tells you whether it has remote start system or not. 

The function will be mentioned only if the vehicle has it from the factory. It won’t work if you get it programmed separately. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How To Tell If Your F150 Has Remote Start?

Most of the latest F150 models should come with the ability to remote start.  

Ford F-150 remote start system was integrated into the vehicle’s software back in 2011. So, if you have a model from that year till present, it means you have the system.

The models before 2011 shouldn’t have such feature. However, if it’s specially programmed in the vehicle, then you can find it out by pressing key fob buttons or FordPass app. 

2. How Do I Know If My Ford Has Remote Start Without Key Fob?

Using FordPass app, owner’s manual, and/or VIN decoder can be a convenient way to know if your Ford has remote start without the key fob.  

The manual index and VIN decoder will mention the feature if it’s integrated into the car from the factory. In case it has been programmed later, then you can check it through the app. 

3. Does Ford Ranger Have A Remote Start System?

Almost all the Ford Rangers 2021 models have remote start system. Some older models may or may not have it.

You just need to follow some tricks to find out whether your Ford ranger remote start works or not. Check the instructions I mentioned above. 

4. How Do I Activate Ford Remote Start?

On the key fob, press the signs “Lock” once and “Arrow with 2x” twice to activate Ford remote start. It should respond to the command by giving you headlamp flashes twice. In case it fails, the horn will honk. 

The key fob lights can also let you know through status feedback. 

• Solid Green: Remote start is successful. The car is on.
• Blinking Green: Status pending.
• Solid Red: Remote stop is successful. The car is off.
• Blinking Red: Remote starting or stopping failed.

Final Words

Now you don’t have to fret about the key fob not having the special button. Just try different Ford remote start tricks I mentioned here to run the engine from anywhere. I’d advise you to start with an app so you don’t have to use any other device. 

But make sure the vehicle has the program in the software otherwise you need to do it separately. 

As long as you have proper knowledge regarding the technicalities, you can surely DIY. But if you’re an amateur, take an expert’s help otherwise you may risk hurting the car, your wallet, and yourself.

Iyul Nasruddin

Nasruddin is a passionate car enthusiast with a love for troubleshooting and diagnosing all sorts of vehicle problems. With years of experience in OBD diagnostics, Nasruddin, has become an expert in identifying and solving complex automotive issues.