Key Fob Stolen high urgency

Key Fob Stolen: What to Do for a 2022 Ford F-150 (US)

A stolen key fob is more urgent than a lost one—someone may have the ability to unlock and start your 2022 Ford F-150. Acting quickly can reduce theft risk and help you regain secure access. The safest path is to have the stolen fob erased from the truck and replace it with newly programmed keys.

Understanding Your Situation

When a key fob is stolen, the vehicle may still recognize that fob until it’s removed (erased) from the truck’s memory. On a 2022 Ford F-150 with proximity/remote start features, a thief could potentially return and unlock or start the truck if the stolen fob remains active.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm the truck’s location and secure it now: park in a locked garage if possible, or move to a well-lit area with cameras; remove valuables and any spare keys from the vehicle.
  2. Report the theft: file a police report (keep the report number) and notify your insurance company if you have comprehensive coverage or if other items were stolen.
  3. Arrange key security service ASAP: contact a Ford dealer or a qualified automotive locksmith to erase (delete) the stolen fob from the truck and program replacement keys/fobs.

Your Options

Ford dealer: erase stolen fob + program new OEM fobs

Cost: $250-$700+ Time: Same day to 1-3 days

A Ford dealer can verify ownership, connect factory diagnostic equipment, remove the stolen fob from the vehicle’s key list, and program new OEM fobs. They can also cut an emergency key blade (if applicable) and confirm all remaining keys work.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-level programming
  • Dealer can reliably erase the stolen fob from the truck’s memory
âś— Cons:
  • Often the highest cost option
  • May require towing or scheduling delays if you have no working keys

Mobile automotive locksmith: erase stolen fob + program replacement fob

Cost: $180-$550 Time: Same day

A licensed automotive locksmith can come to the truck, verify ownership, erase the stolen fob, and program a new fob (OEM or high-quality aftermarket, depending on availability). They can also cut a mechanical/emergency key if needed.

âś“ Pros:
  • On-site service (no towing in many cases)
  • Often faster and less expensive than a dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Capability varies—confirm they can erase keys and program 2022 F-150 systems
  • Aftermarket fob quality can vary if OEM is not used

Insurance claim (if covered) + professional rekey/program service

Cost: $0-$500+ (after deductible) Time: 1-7 days

If your policy covers stolen keys or theft-related losses, insurance may reimburse some costs for replacement fobs, programming, towing, or lock services. You’ll still need a dealer or locksmith to erase the stolen fob and program new keys.

âś“ Pros:
  • May reduce out-of-pocket expense
  • Useful if the theft involved other losses or vehicle damage
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible may exceed the key replacement cost
  • Claims process can take time and may affect premiums depending on policy

Temporary risk reduction: disable remote features and increase physical security

Cost: $0-$150 Time: Same day

While waiting for service, reduce exposure by limiting access and adding deterrents (secure parking, steering wheel lock, driveway blocker, camera coverage). If your truck is connected, review FordPass account security and notifications.

âś“ Pros:
  • Immediate steps you can take while scheduling key programming
  • Can deter opportunistic theft
âś— Cons:
  • Does not remove the stolen fob from the truck’s memory
  • Not a substitute for proper key deletion and reprogramming

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Waiting to “see if it turns up” — a stolen fob should be treated as an active security threat until it’s erased from the truck.

âś• Buying the cheapest online fob without confirming FCC ID/part compatibility and return policy; incorrect fobs are common and may not program.

✕ Sharing your VIN, proof-of-ownership photos, or FordPass account credentials with unverified sellers or anyone who can’t prove they’re a legitimate locksmith/dealer.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not deactivating stolen key
  • Delaying reprogramming
  • Not filing police report
  • Ignoring security risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone start my 2022 Ford F-150 with a stolen key fob?

Potentially, yes—if the stolen fob is still authorized in the truck’s system. The safest fix is to have a dealer or qualified locksmith erase the stolen fob from the vehicle and program new keys/fobs.

Do I need to replace the locks if my F-150 key fob was stolen?

Often, erasing the stolen fob and programming new keys is enough for electronic security. Lock replacement may be considered if the thief also has your address/registration or if a mechanical key blade was stolen and you’re concerned about physical entry.

What if I have no spare key left?

A dealer or capable automotive locksmith can typically create and program new keys, but you may need to provide proof of ownership and photo ID. In some cases, towing to a dealer may be required depending on available equipment and the truck’s condition.

Will erasing the stolen fob disable it permanently?

It will no longer start or unlock your specific truck once it’s removed from the truck’s memory. The physical fob still exists, but it won’t function with your vehicle unless it’s re-added through a programming procedure.

Should I change anything in FordPass after a key fob theft?

Yes—change your FordPass password, enable stronger account security if available, and review connected-vehicle settings/alerts. This doesn’t replace key deletion, but it helps protect connected features.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency: treat a stolen fob as an immediate theft risk. Arrange to have the stolen fob erased and replacement keys programmed as soon as possible—ideally the same day—while keeping the truck secured in the meantime.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2022 Ford F-150.

View F-150 Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04