How to Program a Lincoln Key Fob (DIY, Dealer, or Locksmith)
Many Lincolns let you add a spare key yourself if you already have two working programmed keys, using Ford’s PATS two-key procedure. Older separate remotes can often be added with an ignition-cycling sequence. With fewer than two keys, or on many push-button models, a dealer, locksmith or FORScan setup is needed. Expect $150 to $450 with the key.
Lincoln uses Ford’s key systems, which is good news for owners. Ford’s Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) has long included owner procedures that other brands do not offer. The catch is that most of them depend on already having two working keys.
Lincoln Key Types by Era
Years are approximate and vary by model.
| Key type | Example models and years | Owner programming |
|---|---|---|
| PATS transponder key + separate remote | Late 1990s to about 2010s: Town Car, LS, early Navigator, MKZ (2007 to 2012), MKX (2007 to 2010) | Two-key procedure for the key; ignition-cycling procedure for many remotes |
| Remote head key (integrated) | About 2011 to 2015 on some turn-key models | Two-key procedure often programs both chip and remote |
| Intelligent Access (IA) smart key | MKZ, MKX, MKS, MKT, MKC and Continental from about 2010s with push-button start | Some models support a two-key spare procedure; otherwise tool |
| Current IA key + Phone As A Key | Aviator (2020 on), Corsair, Nautilus, Navigator (2018 on) | Phone As A Key via the Lincoln app; new fobs typically need a tool |
How to Program a Lincoln Key Fob Yourself
Method 1: PATS two-key spare procedure (turn-key Lincolns)
You need two keys already programmed to the car and a new, correctly cut PATS key. Timing matters; the figures below are the commonly published Ford/Lincoln values, but check your owner’s manual under “programming spare keys.”
- Insert the first programmed key and turn to ON. Leave it about 3 seconds (but less than 10), then turn OFF and remove it.
- Within about 10 seconds, insert the second programmed key and turn to ON for about 3 seconds, then OFF and remove.
- Within about 10 seconds, insert the new key and turn to ON. Leave it about 6 seconds.
- Remove the key and test. The new key should start the car. On many integrated keys, the remote buttons also start working.
The procedure will not work with only one key, and it may be disabled on some vehicles by a dealer setting.
Method 2: Separate remote, ignition-cycling procedure
Many older Lincolns with a separate keyless-entry remote use Ford’s eight-cycle procedure:
- Close all doors and have every remote with you.
- Insert the key and switch from OFF to RUN eight times within about 10 seconds, ending in RUN. The locks cycle to confirm programming mode.
- Within about 20 seconds, press any button on each remote you want to use, including your old ones. The locks cycle after each.
- Turn the ignition OFF to exit, then test.
Remotes not entered during this session are typically erased.
Method 3: Push-button Lincolns
Some IA push-button Lincolns support a two-key spare procedure that uses the backup transponder location (often near the steering column or in the console, as shown in the owner’s manual) and the START button. If your manual does not list one, the key needs a tool. DIY owners often use FORScan with a compatible adapter, which can program keys on many Ford and Lincoln models with only one working key.
What You Need
- A compatible key or fob matching FCC ID and part number.
- A correctly cut blade for turn-key models and the IA emergency blade.
- Two programmed keys for the owner two-key method.
- A healthy 12V battery, especially for tool-based programming.
Lincoln Replacement Key Fob or Intelligent Access Key
Match the FCC ID and part number, and confirm whether your car uses a turn key, integrated key or Intelligent Access fob before ordering.
As an Amazon Associate, ReplaceKeyFob earns from qualifying purchases.
Lincoln Key Fob Programming by Model
Lincoln MKZ key fob programming
The 2007 to 2012 MKZ typically uses a PATS key with a separate or integrated remote, so the two-key method and remote procedure often work. The 2013 to 2020 MKZ uses an Intelligent Access key on most cars. Check your manual for a spare-key procedure; otherwise use a locksmith, dealer or FORScan.
2011 Lincoln MKX key fob programming
The 2011 to 2015 MKX uses Intelligent Access with push-button start on most trims. A dealer or locksmith can add keys; some owners use FORScan.
2013 and 2016 Lincoln MKX key fob programming
Both years are Intelligent Access cars (the 2016 is the second generation). Programming works the same way: tool-based, or an owner spare-key procedure if your manual lists one.
Lincoln Key Fob Programming Cost
| Option | Typical 2026 US cost |
|---|---|
| Owner two-key or remote procedure | Key or remote cost only |
| Locksmith, PATS key | About $120 to $250 |
| Locksmith, Intelligent Access key | About $200 to $400 |
| Dealer, Intelligent Access key | About $300 to $450 |
See the key fob programming cost guide for more.
If It Doesn’t Work
- Theft light flashes, car won’t start: the new key’s chip was not accepted. Check timing and the key cut.
- Locks don’t cycle on the eight-cycle procedure: your model may use a different method or the IA system.
- Weak remote range: Lincoln fobs commonly use a CR2032 or CR2450 depending on generation; see the key fob battery size chart.
Our Ford key fob programming guide covers the same systems in more depth. For all brands, see the key fob programming hub.
Tips for the Lincoln Two-Key Method
- Cut the new key first. The blade must turn the ignition smoothly before any programming can work.
- Use a PATS-compatible key. A blank without the correct transponder chip will never program, no matter how good your timing is.
- Keep the timing tight. Practice the sequence with your two working keys before inserting the new one.
- Watch the theft light. A steady or flashing theft indicator after the procedure means the car did not accept the key; wait a minute and retry.
- Keep two keys at all times. Once you are down to one key, the free owner method is no longer available, so add a spare early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not with the owner two-key method. With one key, use a locksmith, dealer, or a tool such as FORScan that supports your model.
Turn-key MKZs (about 2007 to 2012) can often use the two-key PATS procedure. Later push-button MKZs use Intelligent Access keys that usually need a tool unless your manual lists a spare-key procedure.
A feature on newer Lincolns such as the Aviator, Corsair, Nautilus and Navigator that lets your phone lock, unlock and start the vehicle via the Lincoln app.
Typically about $120 to $250 for a PATS key and $200 to $450 for an Intelligent Access key, including programming.
With the ignition-cycling remote procedure, yes, remotes not entered in the session are usually erased. Program them all together.