How do I activate my vehicle's modem using FordPass®*?
Connecting to your FordPass® Connect** modem 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 be equipped with the SYNC®†/FordPass Connect embedded modem.
- Your vehicle must be added to FordPass.
- Your device has a strong cellular signal.
- Your vehicle is in an open area.
- Your Customer Connectivity Settings are turned on.
Connecting to FordPass Connect
Select your current FordPass App experience for steps to activate or connect to your FordPass Connect modem.
FordPass App 4.X Experience
To activate your FordPass Connect modem:
- Open the FordPass App.
- Select the Home screen.
- Tap Activate Vehicle.
Note: If your vehicle is equipped with the FordPass Connect modem and the Activate Vehicle button does not appear, contact us through Account > Help.
- Enter and start your vehicle.
- Leave it in Park and keep your vehicle running. A message should appear on your vehicle screen.
- Accept the activation confirmation pop-up.
- Refresh the Home screen in FordPass by swiping down on your device screen.
The Remote Commands should appear below your vehicle image.
FordPass App 5.X Experience
To connect to your vehicle:
- Enter and turn your vehicle on.
- Ensure that your vehicle is on, running, parked, and in a well-ventilated, safe area.
- Confirm your Connectivity Settings are enabled within your vehicle.
- Open the FordPass App.
Select Connect to Vehicle.
Note: If your vehicle is equipped with the FordPass Connect modem and the Connect to Vehicle tile does not appear, contact us through Account > Contact Help.
- Tap I've Started my Vehicle.
Read and accept the prompt on your vehicle screen.
Note: It may take up to two minutes for the connection to complete.
- Press Check Connection Status once you accept the in-vehicle prompt.
FordPass 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 receive a "Feature Unavailable for fleet vehicles" message, contact us through Account > Help for additional assistance.
- If you experience activation issues, try the Vehicle Activation Access is Pending Troubleshooting 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 I lost my device and FordPass is still active topic.
- For new devices, visit the I have a new device and want to add FordPass topic.
- If your troubleshooting is unsuccessful, contact us through Account > Help for additional assistance.
Further Troubleshooting Options
If you are experiencing other issues, visit the FordPass Troubleshooting topic folder for additional support.
Additional Information
How do I Remote Start using FordPass?
*FordPass® App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.
**FordPass® Connect, the FordPass® App., and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass Terms for details). Connected service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected service excludes Wi-Fi® hotspot.
†Don’t drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.