Used Ford Not Working? MyKey Settings Explained

Power - by Lexi Wood - updated on 8/31/2026

See if this sounds familiar: After a lot of careful research on used vehicles, you decide on a reliable Ford. You drive off the lot, only to find your new (to you) vehicle won't go over 55 miles per hour. Or the radio volume doesn't go all the way up. And the touchscreen doesn't respond right. You take it to a mechanic who can't find anything wrong. What gives?

Your used Ford is probably limited by MyKey programming. And if you weren't given the administrator key, there's no way of changing those settings. Fortunately, the solution is as easy as getting a new admin key cut and programmed at Batteries Plus.

Here's everything you need to know about Ford MyKey (and how to change it):

MyKey Settings: What It Does (and Why)

MyKey is designed to allow Ford owners a way to restrict drivers in their vehicle. For example, a parent can set a seatbelt reminder for their new teen driver. And fleet managers can set early refueling reminders on company vehicles. There are plenty of other scenarios for using MyKey, but these are the most common.

MyKey programming offers these safety settings:

• Blindspot alert
• Cross-traffic alert
• Collision warning
• Seatbelt alert

And these additional alerts:

• Low-fuel warning: Chimes when the vehicle should be refueled before it gets to "Empty"
• Radio screening and maximum volume: Restricts access to satellite radio stations, and limits the top volume of the radio
• Speed limits and reminders: Limits top speed, even when pressing the accelerator, a warning tone will sound when exceeding the speed
• Touch-screen restriction: No changes can be made to the navigation unless the vehicle is in park or operating below a certain speed

MyKey Settings: How It Works

MyKey places restrictions on drivers based on the key fob they use to start the vehicle. It is only available in Ford vehicles with touch-screen displays. This can be found in vehicles from 2008 to today.

The owner of the vehicle inserts the key into the ignition and then goes to the MyKey setting using the touch screen. They can then select different settings which will be enabled whenever that MyKey is used. Multiple MyKeys can be made if there are different drivers in the vehicle.

How to Remove MyKey

While MyKey is useful for training new teen drivers or enforcing safety regulations in company cars, it's annoying for new owners. This is especially true if the previous owner forgot to mention those limitations. Unfortunately, the only way to remove MyKey settings is with an administrator or admin key. This is another key fob paired to the vehicle, one which doesn't have any MyKey restrictions in place.

Did your used Ford only come with one key fob? Then you'll need to get an admin key made in order to remove those MyKey settings. New key cutting and programming is available at a dealership or your local Batteries Plus.

Similar Key Fob Restrictions

While MyKey is a very specific issue limited to Ford owners, other car manufacturers offer similar programming options.

• Buick: Teen Driver monitoring via designated key fob
• Chevrolet: Teen Driver package via designated key fob
• Hyundai: Blue Link system via app
• Kia: Connect (formerly UVO eServices) via app
• Lexus: Enform Remote service via app
• Lincoln: MyKey (via Ford)
• Toyota: Safety Sense (TSS)
• Volkswagen: Car-Net system via app

Not all of these options are available via key fob, as some are connected via smartphone apps. As such, getting a new key fob won't fix the problem like getting an admin key for a used Ford. If you buy a used car, it's best to ask about any extra keys or apps so this programming won't impact your driving experience.

Key Fob Services of Batteries Plus

Batteries Plus is here to help everyone with their key fob needs. In fact, our programming and replacement services are available for up to 50% less than dealership prices! If you're dealing with MyKey restrictions in a "new-to-you" Ford, you can get an admin key cut and programmed at Batteries Plus.

We don't just do key fobs: we replace and recycle auto batteries for your car!

Ready to experience the Experts in Charge?

Find your local store to get a new key fob cut and programmed today.