6 Best Ford F-150 Key Fob | Self-Programs in 3 Minutes

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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.

That sinking moment when your truck’s key snaps in the ignition — or the rubber buttons finally wear smooth and stop working — and you brace for a dealer visit. You have options that cost a fraction of that, and a few of them let you program the new fob yourself right in the driveway without any special tools.

I’m Min Islam — the founder and writer behind Trending Car. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.

Here is the honest breakdown of the best 2017 ford f-150 key fob options available right now.

Quick Picks

How To Choose The Best 2017 Ford F-150 Key Fob

Your 2017 F-150 uses one of two key systems: a standard flip key (with a blade that folds out) for models without push-button start, or a smart key fob (a rectangular pod) for trucks with push-button ignition. The FCC ID printed on your original fob tells you exactly which one you need — N5F-A08TAA or N5F-A08TDA for flip keys, or M3N-A2C31243300 for the smart key system. Getting the right ID is the single most important step, because the wrong fob will not program to your truck no matter how many times you try.

Flip Key vs. Smart Key — Know Your Truck

If your 2017 F-150 has a traditional ignition cylinder where you insert and turn a key, you need a flip key fob. These combine a fold-out metal blade with up to four buttons (lock, open up, panic, and sometimes remote start). If your truck has a START button on the dashboard and you only carry a fob with no visible blade, you need a push-to-start smart key. The product descriptions are very clear about which system they support — trust the “does not support push-to-start” warning if you see one.

Programming — Dealer vs. Self-Programming

Most aftermarket flip key fobs require a locksmith or dealership to cut the key blade and program the remote electronics. A few models let you self-program using two existing working keys, which saves you the programming fee. For push-to-start smart keys, the new Smart Key Solution kit includes a plug-in tool that walks you through programming in about ten minutes — this is the only fob in this list you can fully set up without a professional.

Quick Comparison

Model Best For Key Type Button Qty Unit Count Amazon
Smart Key Solution 5-Btn Kit DIY push-to-start Smart Key 5 1 fob + programmer Amazon
Vurkcy 2-Pack Best value 2-pack Flip Key 3 2 Amazon
ARSOMI Cut Flip Key Self-program convenience Flip Key 4 1 Amazon
MechanMagic Flip Key Budget single fob Flip Key 3 1 Amazon
USARemote 4-Button Remote start flip key Flip Key 4 1 Amazon
SUPALAND Remote Start Flip key with warranty Flip Key 4 1 Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

DIY Champion

1. Smart Key Solution 5-Button Smart Remote Key Fob Kit

Push-to-StartSelf-Programming Tool

The one kit that frees you from the dealer entirely — tool, fob, and your own driveway.

This is the only fob on this list specifically made for push-to-start 2015–2017 F-150s with the FCC ID M3N-A2C31243300. Instead of paying a locksmith or dealer to program it, you plug a small on-screen tool into your truck’s OBD port (the diagnostic port under the dashboard), follow the prompts, and program a new fob in about ten minutes with the engine off. The kit includes a CR2032 battery (a common lithium coin cell) already installed inside the fob, so it arrives ready to pair.

Buyers report the process takes “less than ten minutes” and that remote start, locks, and tailgate release all work immediately. One reviewer noted the programmer tool locks to the first vehicle it pairs with — it cannot be reused on a different truck. Also, if your truck already has four fobs programmed, you will still need a dealer to clear the memory before adding a fifth. The key itself is a 5-button smart remote that looks and feels like the Ford original, and you get it for a fraction of the dealership quote many owners mention.

Only for push-to-start trucks: This fob will not work with a standard ignition key. Must have a START button on the dashboard.

One-per-truck tool: The programmer pairs to the first vehicle and cannot be reused. Also cannot delete existing fobs from memory — if four are already stored, you need a dealer clear first.

Your best bet if: You own a push-to-start 2017 F-150, you are down to one key, and you want to avoid a locksmith altogether.

The catch: The programmer tool is single-vehicle only. If you later trade trucks, the tool is dead to the new one.

Best 2-Pack

2. Vurkcy Key Fob Replacement (2-Pack)

2.0 Count24-Month Warranty

Two fully working fobs for the price of one dealer visit — and a warranty that backs them.

This Vurkcy pack gives you two complete flip key fobs (each with electronics and battery pre-installed) for about the same money you would spend on a single aftermarket unit from other brands. That is two fobs compared to the MechanMagic’s single fob. Each fob is compatible with 2015–2022 F-150s, including your 2017 model, but they only work with regular key vehicles — not push-to-start systems. The blades are not cut, so you still need a locksmith to cut and program them. At 0.11 kilograms per pair, compared to the MechanMagic fob at 0.06 kg, which reflects the two complete remotes in the box.

Owners mention these work as direct shell replacements too — one owner called it an “absolute life saver” for his 2018 F-150, transferring the microchip from his broken fob into the new housing. Others mention saving money compared to dealer replacement. Vurkcy includes a 24-month warranty and lifetime support, which is the longest coverage on this list.

Two in the box

  • 2.0 count, compared to MechanMagic’s 1.0 count
  • 24-month warranty plus lifetime support — class-leading coverage here
  • Can be used for a shell swap if you keep your original electronics

Before you buy

  • Strictly for regular key vehicles — no push-to-start support
  • Still requires a locksmith to cut the blade and program the electronics
  • Weight of 0.11 kilograms means two complete fobs, not a single lightweight unit

Reach for these if: You drive a standard-ignition 2017 F-150 and want a spare for both drivers, or a backup plus a primary.

Look elsewhere if: You have push-button start — this fob will not work for your truck.

Self-Cut Convenience

3. ARSOMI Cut Flip Key Fob Replacement (4-Button)

Photo-Based Key CuttingSelf-Programming Guide

Upload a photo of your current key and get a laser-cut blade sent to your door.

ARSOMI takes a different approach: you upload a clear photo of your existing key blade, and they cut a new metal key to match before shipping. That means you skip the locksmith’s key-cutting step entirely — just drop the key into the fob body, and if you have two working keys already, you self-program using the included step-by-step guide in about five minutes. The fob uses FCC ID N5F-A08TDA and is a 4-button flip key with remote start capability, fitting 2015–2022 F-150s with standard ignition.

Customers note that the first key cut from a photo sometimes needs a re-cut with clearer pictures, but the seller offers a free replacement if the first attempt fails. One buyer called it a “great experience” after the second key worked perfectly. The fob has no Ford emblem on the back, which some owners mind and others do not. Battery life on the included cell was short for one reviewer (15 days), but a fresh replacement fixed it. At 4 buttons, compared to the MechanMagic’s 3 buttons.

Shipped already cut: The key arrives laser-cut from your photo — no separate trip to a locksmith for the metal blade.

Self-programming requires two working keys: If you only have one key, the self-programming method will not work and you will need a locksmith.

Grab this one if: You have two working keys, want remote start, and prefer to skip a locksmith visit for both cutting and programming.

skip it if: You only have one key — self-programming will not work and the photo-cut process may add a delay if the first attempt misses.

Slim Budget Pick

4. MechanMagic Flip Key Fob Replacement (3-Button)

1.0 Count0.06 kg Weight

A light, cheap 3-button flip key for 2017 F-150 owners on a strict budget.

It is a 3-button flip key (lock, open up, panic) for FCC ID N5F-A08TAA, compatible with 2015–2022 F-150s with standard ignition. The fob comes with a battery and electronics pre-installed, but a locksmith must cut the key and program the remote.

Buyers have mixed experiences. One reviewer successfully used it as a shell swap from a 2022 Ford Super Duty, calling the flip mechanism “better than OEM (which broke).” Other reviewers point out the buttons are oversensitive — causing accidental lock/open up in a pocket — and one says the battery cover falls off easily. “Programmed fine but: ink wears off buttons,” one verified buyer wrote. For the price, it works as a basic backup if you keep a cover on it, but build quality complaints are consistent across several reviews.

What you get

  • Very low entry cost for a single fob
  • Includes battery and electronics, ready for programming
  • Flip mechanism reported better than OEM by some shell-swap users

Where it slips

  • Sensitive buttons — multiple reviews mention accidental activation in pocket
  • Battery cover reported loose by one verified owner
  • Only 3 buttons — no remote start

Buy it only if: You are on the tightest possible budget for a single flip key backup and accept some quality trade-offs.

Not for you if: You need a daily driver that survives pocket carry without accidental button presses, or you want remote start.

Remote Start Focus

5. USARemote 4-Button Remote Start Flip Key Fob

4 Buttons1.0 oz Weight

A 4-button flip key that promises remote start — but check the reviews closely.

USARemote offers a 4-button flip key fob for 2015–2022 F-150s with FCC ID N5F-A08TDA, adding a remote start button to the standard lock/open up/panic trio. The fob weighs just 1 ounce and comes fully assembled with electronics. Like most flip keys here, a locksmith must cut and program it.

The remote start is the selling point, but buyer reports are split. One verified owner of a 2017 F-150 XLT EcoBoost had the key cut and programmed and says it “works just like my other FOB that came with the truck.” Another reviewer, however, warns: “the remote start does not work on either one” and says they lost money on programming and cutting. A separate buyer with a positive experience on lock/open up and ignition reported the remote start failed. This inconsistency makes it a gamble if remote start is your main reason to buy.

If remote start works: This fob is a good value compared to OEM pricing — one buyer paid a total cost including programming.

The remote start gamble: Multiple verified reviews state the remote start function did not work, even after professional programming. Lock/open up and ignition seem reliable.

Consider this if: You want a 4-button flip key and are willing to roll the dice on remote start working — and you accept it may only operate lock/open up/panic.

Look elsewhere if: Remote start is a must-have for you — consider the SUPALAND or ARSOMI fobs with more consistent reports on that feature.

OEM-Quality Flip

6. SUPALAND Remote Start Control Flip Key Fob

2-Year Warranty4 Buttons

Flip key with remote start and a 2-year warranty — the one that impresses locksmiths.

SUPALAND’s flip key fob supports FCC ID N5F-AO8TDA for 2015–2024 F-150s, giving you a 4-button remote with remote start, lock, open up, and panic. The fob is pre-tested before shipping and includes a battery and electronics. It sits alongside the USARemote at a similar price point, but buyer reports are notably more consistent here. One verified owner said their programmer cut the key and it “works and functions like or better than the Ford original.” Another reviewer’s locksmith was “very impressed by the quality” of the fob before even programming it.

SUPALAND also offers a 2-year manufacturer warranty, which is one of the longer coverage periods among individual flip keys. The only caution: this fob, like most here, requires a qualified locksmith or dealer for programming — no self-programming option. One buyer mentioned the key fob buttons did not work after programming on a 2024 F-150 (the car started with the key, but remote lock/open up failed), though this appears to be an outlier.

Quality points

  • Buyers and locksmiths both praise the fit and finish — called “OEM quality” in multiple reviews
  • 2-year manufacturer warranty longer than most single-fob options
  • Pre-tested at factory, battery and electronics pre-installed

One caveat

  • No self-programming — a locksmith or dealer is required
  • A small number of shoppers say the remote buttons not working after programming
  • Does not support push-to-start vehicles

Best for: A 2017 F-150 owner who wants a dependable 4-button flip key with remote start and does not mind paying a locksmith for setup.

pass on it if: You are trying to avoid a locksmith visit entirely — this fob requires professional programming.

Understanding the Specs

FCC ID — The One Number That Matters

Every Ford key fob has an FCC ID printed on the circuit board inside. For a 2017 F-150, you will see either N5F-A08TAA (standard flip key, no remote start) or N5F-A08TDA (flip key with remote start). Push-to-start trucks use M3N-A2C31243300. If you order the wrong FCC ID, the fob will not communicate with your truck’s receiver, and no amount of programming will fix it. Pop your original fob open or check the sticker on the back before buying.

Self-Programming vs. Locksmith Programming

Most aftermarket flip keys require a locksmith or dealership to both cut the metal blade and program the internal electronics. The exception is fobs that support self-programming — if you have two working keys, you can cycle the ignition a specific sequence to add a third. The ARSOMI fob supports this. The Smart Key Solution kit is unique in that it includes its own OBD programmer tool, so you do not need a locksmith even if you have zero working keys.

FAQ

Will any Ford flip key work on my 2017 F-150?
No — you must match the FCC ID. Your 2017 F-150 uses either N5F-A08TAA (3-button, no remote start) or N5F-A08TDA (4-button, with remote start) for flip keys, or M3N-A2C31243300 for push-to-start smart keys. Check your original fob before ordering.
Can I program a flip key fob myself?
Most aftermarket flip keys require a dealership or locksmith for programming. A few models (like the ARSOMI) support self-programming, but only if you have two working keys already. The Smart Key Solution kit for push-to-start trucks includes its own OBD tool for driveway programming.
How much does it cost to have a key cut and programmed?
Based on buyer reports, locksmiths typically charge between a certain amount to cut the metal blade and program the remote. Dealerships may charge more for the same service. Some fobs that ship with a pre-cut key (like the ARSOMI) save you the cutting fee, but you still pay for programming if you lack two keys.
What is the difference between a 3-button and 4-button fob?
A 3-button fob offers lock, open up, and panic. A 4-button fob adds remote start. If your 2017 F-150 has factory remote start, the 4-button fob (FCC ID N5F-A08TDA) will activate it. If your truck did not come with remote start, the fourth button will not do anything.
Will a Smart Key Solution fob work with a standard ignition key?
No — this fob is specifically for push-to-start vehicles only. It will not work with a traditional key-turn ignition. If your 2017 F-150 has a key cylinder in the steering column, you need a flip key fob.
How long does a replacement key fob battery last?
Most aftermarket fobs include a CR2032 lithium battery pre-installed. Battery life varies by use, but one ARSOMI buyer reported the included cell died after 15 days; a fresh replacement solved the issue. Expect 1–2 years from a standard CR2032 in normal use.
Can I use a 2017 F-150 fob from a different brand’s shell?
Yes — several buyers report successfully swapping their original Ford electronics into an aftermarket shell (a “shell swap”). The MechanMagic and Vurkcy fobs are commonly used this way. You need to open both fobs and transfer the circuit board and transponder chip.
What if my fob buttons work but the key won’t turn in the ignition?
That usually means the key blade was not cut precisely to match your truck’s tumblers. Some ARSOMI buyers needed a re-cut with clearer photos. A locksmith can file down a slightly tight key, but a poorly cut blade may need replacement. Most sellers offer a free re-cut if the first attempt fails.
Does the Vurkcy 2-pack include two pre-cut keys?
No — both fobs come with uncut key blanks. You must take both to a locksmith to have the blades cut to match your existing key. The electronics and batteries are pre-installed, so the locksmith only needs to cut the metal and program the fobs.
Can I delete old fobs from my truck’s memory using these kits?
No — none of the aftermarket fobs or tools on this list can delete existing fobs from your truck’s memory. If your 2017 F-150 already has four fobs programmed, you must visit a dealer or locksmith to clear the memory before adding another key.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

For most owners, the 2017 ford f-150 key fob winner is the Smart Key Solution Kit because it is the only one that handles programming entirely in your driveway — no locksmith, no dealership. If you have a standard flip-key truck and want two complete fobs with the longest warranty, the Vurkcy 2-Pack is the best value. And for a single remote-start flip key that impresses the person cutting it, the SUPALAND delivers OEM-like fit with a 2-year warranty.

How We Picked

We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.

Sources & Methodology

Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.

As an Amazon Associate, Trending Car earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.

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