How do I start my Ford vehicle using my Backup Passcode?

How do I start my Ford vehicle using my Backup Passcode?

You can enter your backup passcode on your vehicle's SYNC®* screen to start your vehicle. For more information, use the steps below. 

Note: You also use your backup passcode if your phone is lost, stolen, broken, does not have a Bluetooth connection, or if your vehicle does not detect your Phone As A Key™**

Starting my Vehicle With a Backup Passcode

To start your vehicle with your backup passcode:

  1. Enter your vehicle's door code to enter the vehicle.
  2. Depress the brake pedal and press the Push to Start button. Your instrument cluster will display "No Key Detected."

    Note: A prompt will display on your SYNC screen to enter your backup code. If SYNC does not prompt you to enter your backup code after the welcome animation, press the Push to Start button again.

  3. Enter your backup code, and tap Enter. 

    Note: Selecting Enter must be done within 30 seconds of inputting your password. Your vehicle will notify you that the code has been accepted.

  4. Depress the brake and Push to Start button to start your vehicle. This must be done within 20 seconds. 

The system will lock after five attempts of trying to enter a Backup Start Passcode, resetting a current passcode, or entering an incorrect Valet Mode passcode.

If you have forgotten your backup code or need additional assistance, contact a Guide using the Account > Help options in FordPass®

Additional Information

How do I create a backup code?
How do I set up Phone As A Key? 
How do I troubleshoot my Backup Start Passcode?


*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. 

**Available on select vehicles. Requires feature activation. Not compatible with all mobile phones.

FordPass® App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.