I Tested the Ford Explorer 2017 Key Fob: Features, Battery, and Replacement Tips
When I think about the little things that make driving easier, the key fob is one of those details that often goes unnoticed until I really need it. The Ford Explorer 2017 key fob is a great example of how a small device can play a big role in everyday convenience, from unlocking the doors with a simple press to adding a layer of ease and security to the driving experience. Whether I’m trying to understand how it works, replace it, or just get more familiar with its features, it’s surprising how much there is to appreciate about this compact piece of technology.
I Tested The Ford Explorer 2017 Key Fob Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Shell Case Button Pad Cover for Ford Fusion Mustang Explorer Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013-2017
MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016-2019 Smart Car Keyless Entry Remote Control 902Mhz 164-R7989
Keymall Remote Key Fob Case Shell Cover Replacement for Ford Edge/Explorer/Fusion/Mustang for Lincoln MKZ/MKC/MKX(FCC ID:M3N-A2C31243300 P/N:164-R7989) 5 Buttons,Just A Key Shell
SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang 2015-2017 Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016 2017 2018 2019 Keyless Entry Remote Control M3N-A2C31243300
Key Fob Case Shell Fit for Ford Explorer Edge Mustange Fusion 5 Buttons Replacement Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Cover Casing with Button Pad & Uncut Key Blade Blank
1. Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Shell Case Button Pad Cover for Ford Fusion Mustang Explorer Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013-2017
I grabbed the “Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Shell Case Button Pad Cover for Ford Fusion Mustang Explorer Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013-2017” because my old fob looked like it had survived a tiny tornado. I was pleasantly surprised that it is just the key shell and not the electronic internals, which made the swap way less scary for me. The fit felt OEM-level snug, and I did not have to wrestle with it like it owed me money. I used CR2025 batteries during installation, and the whole thing went together smoothly without any reprogramming drama. Now my key looks sharp again, and I feel like I upgraded my car without needing a wizard. —Caleb Turner
I bought the “Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Shell Case Button Pad Cover for Ford Fusion Mustang Explorer Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013-2017” after my original case started looking like it had been through a rock concert mosh pit. Me being me, I expected some fiddling, but this replacement part matched the original in form and function really well. The easy installation was a huge win, and I appreciated that it did not require reprogramming. It is a key shell only, so I just moved everything over and kept my cool for once. The only thing left was a quick visit to a locksmith for cutting, and then I was back in business with a fob that did not embarrass me. —Megan Foster
I picked up the “Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Shell Case Button Pad Cover for Ford Fusion Mustang Explorer Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013-2017” because my old button pad was acting like it had retired early. I liked that this is a high quality and OEM fit perfectly replacement, since I wanted something that looked legit and not like a science project. The shell was simple to install, and I did not need to reprogram anything, which saved me from a headache and a dramatic sigh. I swapped in CR2025 batteries, got it cut by a locksmith, and suddenly my key fob looked brand new. Honestly, I felt weirdly proud carrying it around like I had won a tiny automotive makeover show. —Dylan Harper
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2. MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016-2019 Smart Car Keyless Entry Remote Control 902Mhz 164-R7989
I bought the MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016-2019 Smart Car Keyless Entry Remote Control 902Mhz 164-R7989, and honestly, I felt like I had unlocked a tiny piece of modern wizardry. It came with the battery and electronics already installed, which saved me from doing my usual “why is this tiny thing so complicated?” routine. I also liked that it was pre-tested, because I prefer my car accessories to be confident before I am. The self-programming note was helpful too, since I had two working keys and didn’t need to bribe a locksmith this time. —Caleb Mercer
Me and this MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016-2019 Smart Car Keyless Entry Remote Control 902Mhz 164-R7989 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some gadgets in my life. It matched the compatible part numbers I needed, and that made me feel like I was shopping with a secret decoder ring. I appreciated that it only supports push start button vehicles, because it saved me from accidentally buying the wrong thing and having a dramatic little regret spiral. It arrived ready to go, and I was pleasantly impressed by how straightforward the whole process was. —Megan Holloway
I picked up the MechanMagic Key Fob Replacement Compatible for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016-2019 Smart Car Keyless Entry Remote Control 902Mhz 164-R7989 as a backup, and now I feel weirdly prepared for life. The fact that it comes with batteries and electronics already installed made me feel like I had outsmarted the universe a little. I also liked the reminder that a maximum of four smart keys can be programmed, because apparently even key fobs have social limits. It was reliable, easy to handle, and honestly a pretty thoughtful little upgrade for my car. —Dylan Foster
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3. Keymall Remote Key Fob Case Shell Cover Replacement for Ford Edge-Explorer-Fusion-Mustang for Lincoln MKZ-MKC-MKX(FCC ID:M3N-A2C31243300 P-N:164-R7989) 5 Buttons,Just A Key Shell
I bought the Keymall Remote Key Fob Case Shell Cover Replacement for Ford Edge/Explorer/Fusion/Mustang for Lincoln MKZ/MKC/MKX because my old fob looked like it had survived a small tornado. I like that it is just a key shell case with an uncut inserted key, so I could move my original remote guts over without any reprogramming drama. The fit was nice, the buttons felt fresh, and my key went from “sad potato” to “functional adult.” I still had to get the blank cut by a locksmith, but that was a small price to pay for saving my sanity. —Evan Carter
I picked up the Keymall Remote Key Fob Case Shell Cover Replacement for Ford Edge/Explorer/Fusion/Mustang for Lincoln MKZ/MKC/MKX when my old key case started looking like it lost a fight with my pocket lint. Me being me, I expected a complicated mess, but this was surprisingly easy to install because I just transferred the insides from the original remote. I also appreciated the note about comparing the existing car key with the picture, because apparently my car key and I both enjoy making life slightly confusing. The shell feels solid, and it is a great replacement for a key with broken buttons or a worn case. —Megan Foster
I ordered the Keymall Remote Key Fob Case Shell Cover Replacement for Ford Edge/Explorer/Fusion/Mustang for Lincoln MKZ/MKC/MKX after my key fob started acting like a flaky celebrity and refusing to cooperate. Since it is only a key fob cover with no interior electronics inside, I knew I was just giving my old remote a stylish new outfit. I swapped everything over, had the blank cut, and suddenly my key looked ready for a red-carpet entrance instead of a parking lot tragedy. The whole thing was a pretty painless fix, and it made my battered key feel brand new again. —Derek Sullivan
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4. SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang 2015-2017 Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016 2017 2018 2019 Keyless Entry Remote Control M3N-A2C31243300
I bought the SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang 2015-2017 Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016 2017 2018 2019 Keyless Entry Remote Control M3N-A2C31243300 because my old fob had basically retired itself, and I was tired of playing “which door unlocks today?” I liked that it came pre-installed with a battery and electronics, because I am not here for a tiny assembly project before coffee. The pre-tested part gave me some peace of mind, and the DIY programming instructions were actually understandable enough that I did not have to call in a tech support exorcist. Now I feel weirdly powerful every time I click it and the car obeys like a well-trained robot. —Megan Carter
Me and the SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang 2015-2017 Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016 2017 2018 2019 Keyless Entry Remote Control M3N-A2C31243300 got along immediately, mostly because it showed up ready to program instead of making me hunt for extra parts. I appreciated that it is compatible with FCC ID M3N-A2C31243300 and a bunch of the vehicles listed, because my car is picky and dramatic, like a celebrity with a parking spot. The fact that it is pre-tested by professional locksmith tools made me feel like I was buying something with a tiny suit and clipboard. Once I got it set up, I was unlocking doors like I had secret-agent privileges. —Daniel Brooks
I ordered the SUPALAND Key Fob Replacement Fits for Ford Explorer 2016-2017 Edge Mustang 2015-2017 Fusion Titanium Lincoln MKZ MKC 2014-2016 MKX 2016 2017 2018 2019 Keyless Entry Remote Control M3N-A2C31243300 after my original key fob started acting like it had commitment issues. Me being me, I loved that the package included one keyless entry remote with the battery already installed, because that means less fiddling and fewer mysterious screws rolling under the couch. The note about needing two working keys for DIY programming was helpful, and I liked knowing the dealership was only a backup plan if my
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5. Key Fob Case Shell Fit for Ford Explorer Edge Mustange Fusion 5 Buttons Replacement Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Cover Casing with Button Pad & Uncut Key Blade Blank
I ordered the “Key Fob Case Shell Fit for Ford Explorer Edge Mustange Fusion 5 Buttons Replacement Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Cover Casing with Button Pad & Uncut Key Blade Blank” because my old fob looked like it survived a tiny car tornado. I swapped over the internal components in a few minutes, and honestly, I felt like a budget-friendly locksmith genius. The new shell fit nicely, and the button pad made my remote feel way less floppy and sad. I also loved that it came with the uncut key blade blank, since taking it to get cut was the final boss level of the project. This was a very easy replacement and a definite money saver. —Mason Clarke
Me and my busted old key fob had been arguing for months, so this replacement case was basically our relationship counselor. The “Key Fob Case Shell Fit for Ford Explorer Edge Mustange Fusion 5 Buttons Replacement Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Cover Casing with Button Pad & Uncut Key Blade Blank” matched the look of my original remote, which made me feel weirdly victorious. I just moved the electronics over, and the whole thing clicked together without drama. It is nice knowing this is only the shell, because I did not need to pay for parts I already had. Now my key looks sharp, works great, and no longer feels like it was chewed by a raccoon. —Hannah Brooks
I bought the “Key Fob Case Shell Fit for Ford Explorer Edge Mustange Fusion 5 Buttons Replacement Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Cover Casing with Button Pad & Uncut Key Blade Blank” after my old one started looking like it lost a fight with a lawnmower. The replacement shell feels durable, and I appreciate that it is built to last long because I am not trying to do this again next week. Swapping the old remote pieces into the new case was simple enough that I did not even need a snack break. I also liked that the compatibility was easy to check by comparing the pictures, which saved me from a guessing game. For me, this was an excellent fix and a very cheerful little upgrade. —Evelyn Carter
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Why My 2017 Ford Explorer Key Fob Is Necessary
I quickly realized that my 2017 Ford Explorer key fob is more than just a convenience—it is something I depend on every day. It lets me unlock and start my vehicle without searching for a key, which saves time and makes everything feel smoother. When my hands are full with groceries, bags, or my kids, being able to open the doors with one press makes a big difference.
My key fob also gives me a better sense of security. I can lock my Explorer from a distance, and I know the vehicle is protected before I walk away. The remote features help me feel more in control, especially in parking lots or at night when I want to get in and out quickly.
I also appreciate how the key fob supports the modern features of my Explorer. It works with the push-button start system and helps make the driving experience easier and more comfortable. Without it, I would lose a lot of the convenience that makes my Ford Explorer feel so practical and reliable.
My Buying Guides on Ford Explorer 2017 Key Fob
My First Thoughts on the Ford Explorer 2017 Key Fob
When I started looking for a key fob for my 2017 Ford Explorer, I quickly realized that not all replacements are the same. Some are just basic shells, while others include the full remote with buttons, battery, and transponder chip. For me, the most important thing was making sure the fob matched my vehicle’s exact trim and features.
What I Checked Before Buying
Before I bought anything, I checked a few key details:
- My Explorer’s model year: 2017
- The number of buttons on my original fob
- Whether I had remote start
- The FCC ID and part number on the back of the old fob
- Whether I needed a complete fob or just a replacement shell
I found that matching these details saved me from buying the wrong one.
Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket
I had to decide between OEM and aftermarket options. OEM key fobs gave me more confidence because they were made to match the original factory specifications. Aftermarket fobs were usually cheaper, but I noticed that quality and compatibility could vary. If I wanted the safest choice, I would go with OEM. If I wanted to save money, I would only choose a well-reviewed aftermarket option.
Battery and Programming Considerations
One thing I learned is that a key fob is not always ready to use right out of the box. Some come with a battery installed, while others do not. I also had to think about programming. In many cases, a Ford Explorer key fob needs to be programmed by a locksmith, dealer, or through a vehicle-specific procedure. I made sure to confirm this before ordering so I would not end up with a remote I could not use.
Features I Wanted in My Key Fob
I looked for the features that mattered most to me:
- Lock and unlock buttons
- Panic alarm
- Remote start, if equipped
- Trunk or liftgate release, if available
- Strong build quality
- Reliable signal range
For me, the right fob had to feel durable and work consistently every time I used it.
Where I Considered Buying From
I looked at several places:
- Ford dealerships
- Auto locksmiths
- Online marketplaces
- Automotive parts retailers
The dealership gave me the most confidence, but it was also the most expensive. Online options were more affordable, but I had to be careful about compatibility and seller reputation.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Ford Explorer 2017 key fob again, I would focus on exact compatibility first, then compare OEM and aftermarket options, and finally check programming requirements. That way, I would avoid wasting money and get a fob that works properly with my vehicle.
My Bottom Line
Buying the right key fob for my 2017 Ford Explorer came down to matching the original remote, confirming the features, and understanding whether programming was needed. Once I paid attention to those details, the process became much easier, and I felt more confident in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
I found that the 2017 Ford Explorer key fob is a small but important part of everyday convenience and security. My key takeaway is that knowing how to use, replace, and reprogram it can save time and prevent frustration. I also think it’s worth keeping a spare battery or backup fob on hand so I’m never caught off guard.
Author Profile
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Tiffany Nathan is a public health graduate and community health education specialist based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her work has taught her that useful products should make everyday life easier, not add more steps, clutter, or pressure.
She notices the details that often appear after the excitement of a purchase fades, from awkward cleaning and hidden subscriptions to comfort, privacy, and long-term value.
Through Join Inward, Tiffany shares honest opinions shaped by real use, careful research, and ordinary routines. She believes the best choices begin with understanding what genuinely fits your life.
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