2008 Mercury Mountaineer

Programming Guide for 2008 Mercury Mountaineer Keyless Entry Remote Fob

Part 1: Programming Standard Keyless Entry Remote Fobs

Important Notice: The 2008 Mercury Mountaineer allows onboard programming for standard keyless entry remotes using a timed ignition cycle. During this process, all remotes must be programmed during the same session, or previously working remotes will be erased and need to be reprogrammed.

Programming Instructions:

  • Step 1: Sit in the driver’s seat with all vehicle doors closed.
  • Step 2: Have all remote fobs you plan to program with you. Each must be included during this session.
  • Step 3: Insert the key into the ignition without starting the engine.
  • Step 4: Within 10 seconds, turn the ignition key from the OFF position to the RUN position (not START) eight times, ending on the eighth turn with the key in the RUN position. Perform this sequence smoothly and quickly.
  • Step 5: After the eighth cycle, the door locks will automatically lock and unlock, confirming the vehicle has entered remote programming mode.
  • Step 6: Within 20 seconds, press any button on the first remote fob. The door locks will cycle again to confirm the remote has been successfully programmed.
  • Step 7: Press a button on the second remote fob within 20 seconds of the previous one. The locks will cycle again to confirm programming.
  • Step 8: Repeat Step 7 for any additional remotes. Each must be programmed within 20 seconds of the last.
  • Step 9: Turn the ignition key to the OFF position. The door locks will cycle once more to indicate that programming mode has ended.
  • Step 10: Test each remote to ensure the lock and unlock functions are working correctly.

Part 2: Programming Remote Head Keys (Integrated Key and Remote)

Important Notice: This procedure requires two previously programmed ignition keys. If you do not have two working keys, this method cannot be completed without special equipment. The new key must be compatible and unprogrammed before starting.

Programming Instructions:

  • Step 1: Gather two previously programmed keys and the new unprogrammed key. Ensure all are readily accessible.
  • Step 2: Insert the first programmed key into the ignition.
  • Step 3: Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start the vehicle). Leave it on for at least 3 seconds but no more than 10 seconds.
  • Step 4: Turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key.
  • Step 5: Within 10 seconds, insert the second programmed key into the ignition.
  • Step 6: Turn the ignition to the ON position again and leave it on for at least 3 seconds but no more than 10 seconds.
  • Step 7: Turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key.
  • Step 8: Within 10 seconds, insert the new, unprogrammed key into the ignition.
  • Step 9: Turn the ignition to the ON position and keep it on for at least 6 seconds.
  • Step 10: Turn the ignition OFF and remove the newly programmed key.
  • Step 11: Test the new key by starting the engine and using the remote entry buttons (if it is an integrated remote head key). Both ignition and remote functions should now work.
  • Step 12: If the key does not function, wait 10 seconds and repeat the entire process from Step 2.

Additional Considerations: All remotes must be programmed in a single session. Any fob not included will be deactivated. Precise timing is essential. Delays may cause the programming mode to cancel. Ensure all key fobs and remote head keys have working batteries prior to beginning.