How do I activate my vehicle's modem using the Ford app?

Activating your What can the modem in my vehicle do? enables your remote commands as well as other features. Use the steps below to activate your vehicle. 

Before you begin, the following pre-conditions must be met:

• Your vehicle must have Does my Ford vehicle have a modem?.
• Your vehicle must be How do I add a vehicle to the Ford app?.
• Your device has a strong cellular signal.

Connecting to the Vehicle's Modem 

Important: Ensure that your vehicle is on, running, parked, and in an open, well-ventilated, and safe area.

To connect to your vehicle:

1. Changing Connectivity Settings.
2. Open the Ford app.
3. Select Connect to Vehicle.
   
   Note: If your vehicle is equipped with a modem and the Connect to Vehicle tile does not appear, Contacting a Ford app Customer Experience Specialist with the Ford App through Account > Contact Help.
    
4. Tap I've Started my Vehicle.
5. Read and accept the prompt on your vehicle screen.  
   
   Note: It may take up to two minutes for the connection to complete. 
    
6. Press Check Connection Status once you accept the in-vehicle prompt.

The Ford app will route you back to the Vehicle screen, and the remote commands (if available) should appear below your vehicle image.

Tips if You Are Unable to Activate

• If you are unable to activate, try the How do I remove the vehicle modem access for authorized users? topic.
• If you receive a "Feature Unavailable for fleet vehicles" message, Contacting a Ford app Customer Experience Specialist with the Ford App through Account > Help for additional assistance.
• If you experience activation issues, try the Why is my activation pending in the Ford app? topic.
• If you had remote controls before and changed devices or lost your phone, refer to the following for best practices:
  • For lost or stolen devices, visit the What happens if I lose my device and Ford app is active? topic.
  • For new devices, visit the How do I get my Ford app account on my new phone?topic.
• If your troubleshooting is unsuccessful, Contacting a Ford app Customer Experience Specialist with the Ford App by selecting Account > Help in the Ford app for additional assistance. 

Further Troubleshooting Options

If you are experiencing other issues, visit the Ford app Troubleshooting page for additional support. 

Additional Information

How do I remote start my Ford vehicle?

^*The Ford app, formerly known as the FordPass^® app, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message 
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