2011 Ford Explorer Key Replacement

The 2011–2015 Explorer uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the Ford Explorer key guide.

2011 Ford Explorer: key facts

Key type: Remote-head key
Push-to-start: No
Transponder chip: 4D63 (80-bit)
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

80-bit remote-head keys list 2011-2015 Explorer fitment; optional Intelligent Access smart fob with push-button start on upper trims.

What kind of key does a 2011 Explorer use?

Most 2011 Explorers use a remote-head key. That is one piece: a metal blade that turns the ignition, with the lock, unlock and panic buttons built into the head. Inside the plastic is a transponder chip from the 4D63 family, an 80-bit chip. Our sources for that, American Key Supply and UHS Hardware, agree, and we treat it as verified for this year.

What that means for you: a blade cut to match your ignition is not enough. The truck's PATS anti-theft system has to read a chip it recognizes, or the engine will not run. A key that turns the lock but has no programmed chip will crank and then die.

The 80-bit remote-head keys are listed for 2011 through 2015 Explorers. The 2011 also has a mechanical backup key, so if the remote side fails, a plain blade can still get you into the vehicle. It will not start the engine on its own.

Key type: remote-head with a 4D63 80-bit transponder chip
Standard setup is not push-to-start
Programming is done through the OBD port
No NASTF SDRM access is needed for this programming

Spare key or all keys lost: what changes?

The two situations are different jobs on this truck, and it helps to know which one you are in before you call.

If you still have one working key, we duplicate from it. For this setup the original key is needed to make the copy. We cut the blade, program the chip and remote through the OBD port, and test everything before you leave. This is the easier situation, and having a spare made now is usually more economical than waiting until the last key is gone.

If every key is lost, it is still possible to get you a working key. We cut a new blade from the ignition or door lock and program a new key to the truck, which takes more steps than a copy. Because we have a storefront and mobile vans, we can come to the Explorer wherever it is parked rather than asking you to tow it first.

Tell us the year, model and whether you have any working key
We confirm the key type, and for odd cases the VIN, before we cut or program anything
We cut the blade, from your key or from the lock if all are lost
We program the chip and remote through the OBD port
We test starting, locking, unlocking and the backup blade, then check the PATS light

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

We answer around the clock, every day of the year.

Call (213) 577-1366

What affects the cost of a 2011 Explorer key?

We will not quote a number in a web page, because the real figure depends on your situation. These are the things that move it:

Whether you have a working key to copy or all keys are lost
Whether you need a remote-head key or the optional smart fob that some upper trims carry
How many keys you want made in one visit
Whether the truck is at our Westwood storefront or we drive a van to you
The condition of the ignition, since a worn ignition can add work
The time of day, since we answer around the clock and night calls are staffed differently

Problems we see with this key and truck

Not every key problem needs a new key, so it is worth matching the symptom to the fix.

Cracked shells and worn buttons are common on the remote-head design. Often the chip and electronics are fine and the key can be moved into a new shell, depending on its condition. A weak or dead key battery can also look like a failed remote, so try that first.

A flashing PATS theft light with an engine that cranks but will not start usually means the truck is not reading the chip. That could be a damaged key, an unprogrammed key or a different cause, so we test before replacing anything.

On high-mileage Explorers, worn ignition lock wafers can make a key stick, turn roughly or fail to turn. Fixing the lock may be the real repair, even when it feels like a key problem.

What we confirm in person, and why call us

The data for the standard remote-head key is verified. The optional Intelligent Access smart fob with push-button start on upper trims is noted only as an option, and our verified data does not cover its programming details. If your Explorer has a start button instead of a key slot, we confirm the exact fob by VIN or in person before we promise anything, and we tell you plainly if a case needs the dealer.

Wilshire Lock & Key has been in business since 1987 and serves 140 cities across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. You reach us directly at (213) 577-1366, any hour, and the work is done by our own technicians under David's oversight, not passed to a dispatch middleman. California requires locksmith companies to hold a BSIS LCO license, and you should ask any locksmith for it.

For other models, see our Ford key replacement page or the Explorer overview. You can also browse all car key services or contact us with your VIN.

Frequently asked questions

Does a 2011 Ford Explorer have a push-to-start ignition?

The standard setup is not push-to-start. It uses a remote-head key turned in the ignition. Some upper trims offered the Intelligent Access smart fob with push-button start as an option, so we confirm by VIN or in person which you have.

What transponder chip does the 2011 Explorer use?

The remote-head key uses a 4D63 chip, an 80-bit type. Two parts suppliers list it, and we treat it as verified for this year.

Can you make a key if I lost all my 2011 Explorer keys?

Yes, it is possible. We cut a new blade, program a new key through the OBD port and test it. It involves more steps than copying an existing key.

Do I need my original key to get a copy made?

For this setup, yes. Duplication works from an existing original. If you have one, make the spare now, before the last key is lost.

Why does my Explorer crank but not start, with a flashing theft light?

That is the PATS system not reading the chip in your key. The key may be damaged or unprogrammed, or the cause may be elsewhere. We test it before recommending a replacement.

Can I just replace a cracked key shell?

Often yes, if the chip and electronics are intact. We check the condition first, and if the key itself is failing, we replace the key.

Do you need dealer-only equipment for this key?

Not for the standard remote-head key. Programming goes through the OBD port and does not require NASTF SDRM access. For smart-fob trucks we confirm the details by VIN first.

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Reviewed by David, Owner & Lead Technician, Wilshire Lock & Key — in the locksmith trade since 1987.

Last updated 2026-10-11.