Bought a Ford Focus 2014 SE…what’s this MyKey thing?

Seeking Help
21

Did you try pressing the power button on the radio?

22

Yeah, I tried but nothing worked.

23

Try holding the power button. If MyKey is restricting the radio, you might need an unrestricted key to get it to turn on.

24

MyKey can cause the black screen issue, and I’ve had the same problem. The dealership will charge a lot to fix it, but I’m looking for a cheaper solution myself.

25

Try resetting the APIM module with ForScan. It could be the Sync or Audio module that’s failed, but you can still find parts for these models online with instructions to replace them.

26

Why does it cost $400 just for an admin key? It makes no sense.

27

The cost is so high because the dealer can’t just copy the key. They have to use a machine to cut and code it. Sometimes it’s cheaper to go through a locksmith instead.

28

MyKey is handy for limiting things like speed or volume. It’s great if you don’t want someone joyriding your car. You can give them the restricted key while keeping the admin key for yourself.

29

Unrelated, but I have a 2014 SE and I upgraded to an 8-inch screen and Sync 3 from a 2016 model. My setup looked like this: https://www.ebay.com/itm/225694811184

30

You’ll need to go to the dealer and buy an admin key to remove the restrictions. I learned that the hard way too.

31

Do you think getting an admin key will fix the screen issue as well?

32

Maybe. Start with the key first, it’s cheaper than replacing the APIM module.

33

Thanks man, I really appreciate the advice.

34

Thanks for the help everyone, hopefully, we’ll figure this out soon.

35

Two things: MyKey will cost you $400 to remove, and the black screen might be an $800 fix. If it’s an automatic transmission, you should return the car if you can, or sell it. It could cause you more problems down the road.

36

You can disable MyKey with ForScan and a good cable. My Focus had the same issue, and ForScan fixed everything.

37

I had the same problem. I left my admin key with my cosigner in another state, and couldn’t turn off the MyKey settings until I got it back.

38

I held the volume and next track buttons for 10 seconds, and that worked for me.

39

You don’t have to go to a Ford dealer. A locksmith can make and program a key for less than $400.

40

Wait until you have to deal with the transmission issues.