2020 Ford Explorer Key Fob Programming
Updated 2026 Programming, battery & replacement fob
The 2020 Ford Explorer key fob can't be programmed at home — it needs a locksmith or dealer with a diagnostic tool. Below is the exact replacement fob you need (FCC ID and part number) and what to expect.
Professional programming required
This key fob can't be programmed with a do-it-yourself procedure. The vehicle needs a diagnostic tool connected to its OBD port to pair a new fob, so a replacement has to be set up by an automotive locksmith or a dealer.
Order the correct replacement fob below — match the FCC ID on your current fob first — then have a local automotive locksmith or the dealer program it to your vehicle.
Replacement key fobs
Find your key type below, then match the FCC ID printed on the back of your existing fob — or, for a plain transponder key, the blank code — to be sure of the right part.
Proximity Key
2 versionsStays in your pocket — the car unlocks and starts without inserting a key.
3/4-button Proximity Key
Find on Amazon- FCC ID
- M3N-A2C931423, M3N-A2C93142300
- OE part #
- 164-R8150, 164-R8159, 164-R8163, 164-R8187, 164-R8197, 164-R8246 +23 more
- Frequency
- 315 MHz
- Chip
- NXP HITAG PRO ID49 128 BIT
4/5-button Proximity Key
Find on Amazon- FCC ID
- M3N-A2C931426, M3N-A2C93142600
- OE part #
- 164-R8149, 164-R8162, 164-R8182, 164-R8198, 164-R8244, 164-R8275 +17 more
- Frequency
- 902 MHz
- Chip
- NXP HITAG-PRO ID49 128-BIT
Remote Head Key
One piece: a cut metal blade with the lock/unlock buttons built into the head.
3-button Remote Head Key
Find on Amazon- FCC ID
- N5F-A08TAA, N5F-A08TDA
- OE part #
- 164-R8130, 164-R8283, 5923667, 5939702, FL3T-15K601, FL3T-15K601-AB +3 more
- Frequency
- 315 MHz
- Chip
- NXP HITAG-PRO ID49 128 BIT
Remote
A separate key fob that only handles locking and unlocking.
3-button Remote
Find on Amazon- FCC ID
- CWTWB1U0009
- OE part #
- GB5T-15K601-FA, GB5Z-15K601-C
- Frequency
- 315 MHz
Transponder Key
4 versionsA cut metal key with a chip in the head. No buttons.
Transponder Key
Find on Amazon- Key blank
- BH75
- OE part #
- BH75
Transponder Key
Find on Amazon- Key blank
- FO25
- OE part #
- 11196FD
Transponder Key
Find on Amazon- Key blank
- FO-15DE
- OE part #
- JMA-H75
Transponder Key
Find on Amazon- Key blank
- IAX00012124
- OE part #
- H128-PT, H128PT
- Chip
- HITAG PRO 128-BIT
Photos show the OEM part for each number listed. Aftermarket replacements sold online are often slightly different in appearance — the FCC ID, not the shape, is what determines whether a fob will work with your car.
2020 Ford Explorer key fob battery
Your 2020 Ford Explorer key fob uses a CR2450 3V lithium coin cell. A fresh one typically lasts 3–5 years.
Find CR2450 batteries on AmazonHow to replace the battery
- 1 Slide the release latch and pull the metal emergency key out of the fob.
- 2 Use that key (or a coin) to pry the two halves apart at the seam.
- 3 Lift out the old coin cell — note which side faces up.
- 4 Drop in the new battery the same way (printed + side usually faces the back cover).
- 5 Press the case back together until it clicks, then test lock/unlock and push-to-start.
Battery tips
- Use a fresh, name-brand 3V lithium cell — bargain cells drain quickly.
- Even with a dead fob battery you can usually still start the car by holding the fob against the start button — check your owner's manual.
- If the fob still won't work after a new battery, it may need re-syncing or programming.
We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. It never affects which product we recommend. Learn more.
Rather hire a pro?
See what it actually costs, broken out by dealer, locksmith, and DIY: