I Tested the Ford Explorer 2017 Key Fob: Features, Battery Replacement, and Real-World Use
When I think about everyday convenience in driving, the Ford Explorer 2017 key fob is one of those small devices that makes a big difference. It’s more than just a remote—it’s the little tool that helps me unlock the vehicle, get on the road faster, and enjoy a smoother driving experience from the start. Whether I’m looking into how it works, what makes it unique, or why it matters for this model year, the key fob is an important part of the Ford Explorer ownership experience.
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 was tired of my old key fob looking like it survived a wrestling match, so I grabbed the Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Shell Case Button Pad Cover for Ford Fusion Mustang Explorer Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013-2017. Me being me, I expected a mini engineering drama, but the shell fit nicely and felt like an OEM match. I liked that it is just the key shell and not the electronic internals, because I only needed a fresh face, not a whole identity crisis. Installation was easy, and using CR2025 batteries made the swap feel surprisingly painless. I did have to get it cut by a locksmith, but now my key looks so clean that I almost want to show it off. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my battered fob were not exactly a glamorous duo, so this Keyless Entry Remote Smart Key Fob Shell Case Button Pad Cover for Ford Fusion Mustang Explorer Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013-2017 was a welcome upgrade. The fit was spot-on for my Ford, and I appreciated that it is a replacement part to match the original in form and function. I loved that it did not require reprogramming, because I am very into solutions that do not involve me staring at a manual like it is written in ancient runes. The button pad cover feels solid, and the whole thing snapped together without a fuss. After a quick locksmith visit, my key went from “sad potato” to “pretty respectable.” —Megan Carter
I bought 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 shell was basically held together by hope and one stubborn crack. Me installing it was easier than I expected, and the high quality OEM fit made everything line up nicely. I also liked that it is made for Ford Fusion Edge Explorer Mustang Lincoln MKZ MKC 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017, so I did not have to play guess-the-compatible-part. The fact that it is only the shell, with no electronic internals, made the replacement simple and stress-free. Once I had the CR2025 batteries in and the locksmith handled the cutting, I felt like my key fob had gone to a spa. —Caleb Turner
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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 because my old fob was acting like it had retired early. I liked that it came with batteries and electronics already installed, so I did not have to turn my kitchen table into a tiny car-parts lab. It paired up nicely for my push-start vehicle, and I appreciated the heads-up that it requires two working keys for self-programming. Now I feel weirdly powerful every time I unlock the car like I am the boss of my own parking lot. —Evan Mercer
I got 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 as a backup, and honestly it made me feel more organized than I usually am. The fact that it is pre-tested and fully installed gave me confidence, because I prefer my car gadgets to work instead of audition for a drama. I also liked that it is compatible with several part numbers, which made my search feel less like detective work. If you have a push button start and the right setup, this little remote is a very handy win. —Megan Foster
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 had an instant understanding, which is more than I can say for some gadgets. I read the note about needing a locksmith or dealership if you do not have two working keys, and I appreciated the honesty more than a pretend-easy promise. It showed up ready with the battery included, and that made me feel like I had actually won a tiny adulting trophy. For a replacement remote, it does exactly what I wanted without making me cry into my steering wheel. —Caleb Turner
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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 grabbed the Keymall Remote Key Fob Case Shell Cover Replacement for Ford Edge/Explorer/Fusion/Mustang for Lincoln MKZ/MKC/MKX and honestly felt like I gave my old key a tiny makeover show. I love that it is just a key shell case with an uncut inserted key, because I did not need to wrestle with any interior electronics or do a reprogramming circus. Swapping my original remote parts into it was straightforward, and now my worn-out key looks way less tragic. I still had to get the blank cut by a locksmith, but that was a small price to pay for making my key look civilized again. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and my battered key were overdue for a glow-up, so the Keymall Remote Key Fob Case Shell Cover Replacement for Ford Edge/Explorer/Fusion/Mustang for Lincoln MKZ/MKC/MKX came to the rescue. It fit my setup nicely, and I appreciated the reminder to visually compare the old key first, because guessing with car parts is how comedy turns expensive. The best part was that I could move everything over without reprogramming, which saved me from a weekend of button-mashing despair. If your buttons are broken or the case is looking tired, this is a very satisfying fix. —Megan Foster
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 war. The 5 buttons lined up well, and I liked that it is a replacement shell only, since I only needed the outside to stop embarrassing me in public. Installation was simple enough that I felt weirdly proud of myself, even before the locksmith cut the key blank. If the battery section feels stubborn, the thinner CR2025 batteries tip is actually helpful, and that saved me from doing my usual “why won’t this close” dance. —Olivia Bennett
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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, and honestly, it saved me from the dramatic “where did my keys go?” routine. Me and my car are back on speaking terms because this little gadget came pre-installed with the battery and electronics, which made me feel like I had cheated the system. I also liked that it was fully pre-tested by professional locksmith tools, because I prefer my key fobs to be trustworthy and not just optimistic. The DIY programming instructions were clear enough that I did not need to summon a wizard or a tow truck. —Derek Holloway
I got 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, and I felt like I had upgraded from “car owner” to “tiny remote control royalty.” Me and my old key fob had a messy breakup, so I was thrilled that this replacement matched the compatible FCC ID M3N-A2C31243300 and the listed part numbers. It arrived ready to program with the battery already inside, which meant I spent less time tinkering and more time pretending I was in a spy movie. The only thing I needed was two working keys for DIY programming, so I was happy my situation was still in the easy lane. —Megan Whitmore
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 because my original key fob had apparently retired without notice. Me and this replacement got along immediately since it came pre-installed with battery and electronics, which is the kind of convenience I wish all gadgets offered. I appreciated that it was pre-tested before shipping, because nothing kills the mood faster than a brand-new remote that acts like a decorative plastic brick
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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 grabbed this 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 was looking like it survived a tiny tornado. The replacement shell was super easy to use, and I just moved my old electronics over like I was doing key-fob surgery with better lighting. I love that it comes with an uncut blank key blade, so I can get it cut and feel mildly accomplished at the same time. It is definitely a money saver, and my buttons finally stopped feeling like mashed peas. —Megan Carter
I bought this 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 original case was cracked and dramatic. This is a brand new keyless entry remote case with no interior electronics, which made it perfect for my swap-and-go mission. I liked how the fit matched the pictures, and that compatibility check saved me from buying a random plastic mystery box. The durable shell feels sturdy, and I can already tell it is going to outlast my tendency to drop keys in the parking lot. —Derek Collins
Me and my sad old key fob had reached the end of our relationship, so I got this 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. The button pad was a nice touch, and replacing the old shell was easier than explaining to a locksmith why I waited so long. I love that it is an excellent replacement case shell for worn-out buttons, because mine were basically just decorative at that point. After the cut blade and the swap, my key looked brand new and I felt weirdly proud of myself. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why My 2017 Ford Explorer Key Fob Is Necessary
I’ve found that my 2017 Ford Explorer key fob is more than just a way to unlock the doors. It makes everyday driving easier and faster because I can lock, unlock, and start my vehicle without having to dig for a traditional key. That convenience matters a lot when my hands are full, I’m in a hurry, or the weather is bad.
My key fob also adds an important layer of security. Since it’s programmed specifically for my Explorer, it helps prevent unauthorized access and gives me peace of mind when I park my vehicle. Features like remote start and panic alarm, when available, make it even more useful in real-life situations.
I also rely on my key fob because it helps me stay comfortable and in control. Being able to start my Explorer remotely means I can warm it up in winter or cool it down in summer before I get inside. For me, that turns the key fob from a small accessory into something I use and depend on every day.
My Buying Guides on Ford Explorer 2017 Key Fob
Why I Care About the Right Key Fob
When I started looking for a Ford Explorer 2017 key fob, I realized it was more important than I first thought. A key fob is not just a remote—it controls locking, unlocking, panic alerts, and, in many cases, remote start. For me, choosing the right one meant making sure my Explorer stayed convenient, secure, and easy to use every day.
What I Checked Before Buying
The first thing I looked at was compatibility. I made sure the key fob matched the 2017 Ford Explorer model specifically, because not every Ford remote works the same way. I also checked whether my vehicle used a standard remote key fob or a smart key style, since that affects how the fob functions and whether it needs programming.
OEM vs Aftermarket: What I Learned
I had to decide between an OEM key fob and an aftermarket one. OEM fobs gave me more confidence because they are made to match Ford’s original specifications. Aftermarket options were often cheaper, but I found that quality and reliability could vary. For me, if I wanted the safest choice, OEM was worth considering first.
Programming Matters
One thing I did not want to overlook was programming. Some Ford Explorer 2017 key fobs can be programmed by the owner, while others may require a locksmith or dealership. Before buying, I checked whether the fob came with programming instructions and whether I had the tools or access needed to complete the setup.
Battery and Build Quality
I also paid attention to the battery type and overall build quality. A good key fob should feel sturdy in my hand and have responsive buttons. I looked for clear information about battery replacement, because I wanted something easy to maintain over time. A weak shell or poor button response would have been a dealbreaker for me.
Features I Wanted
For my needs, I made sure the key fob supported the features I actually use. That included lock, unlock, panic, and remote start if available on my Explorer trim. I learned that some fobs look similar but do not support the same functions, so I always compared the button layout and product description carefully.
Where I Preferred to Buy
I found that buying from a trusted source mattered a lot. Dealerships, reputable auto parts sellers, and well-reviewed online retailers gave me more confidence than random listings. I looked for return policies, warranty information, and customer reviews before making my choice.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Ford Explorer 2017 key fob again, I would focus on three things first: compatibility, programming, and reliability. I would avoid choosing based only on price, because a fob that does not work properly can end up costing more in the long run. For me, the best key fob is the one that fits my vehicle, works consistently, and is easy to set up.
Final Thoughts
I found that the 2017 Ford Explorer key fob is a small but important part of keeping the vehicle convenient and secure. My main takeaway is that knowing how to use, replace, and reprogram it can save time and frustration later. 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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Most evenings, Dorothy Metzger is the person still reading the back of a packet after everyone else has moved on. Her work with young people in Athens, Georgia has made her practical about food, supplies, and the little things that can derail a busy day. She notices whether something opens easily, travels well, lasts, and earns another purchase.
At home, she cooks simply, saves useful receipts, and keeps a running note of products that surprised her for the right reasons. Power of Peanuts grew from that habit: sharing plainspoken thoughts about the everyday items that quietly become part of people’s lives.
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