Change permanent keypad access code?
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New User
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Change permanent keypad access code?
Just got my first truck (and first Ford vehicle). It's a 2020 F-350 Lariat. I notice there is a permanent keypad access code in the manual pouch. Is it possible to change it? Seems like a security hole if it cannot be changed. Thanks!
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2014
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From: IA/GA/HI/FL/VA/CA/ME
There’s no way to change the permanent code. Take the card out of the owners manual that has the code on it and keep it in your house. It’s not a security risk unless you tell all your friends, family and enemies the code. You can add additional codes to use that are easier to remember if you want.
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2014
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From: NY/Canada border
There’s no way to change the permanent code. Take the card out of the owners manual that has the code on it and keep it in your house. It’s not a security risk unless you tell all your friends, family and enemies the code. You can add additional codes to use that are easier to remember if you want.
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Elder User
Joined: Jan 2014
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From: IA/GA/HI/FL/VA/CA/ME
Not the permanent code. You can add and change additional codes, but. It the factory code.
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New User
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Page 69 and 70 on the manual for 2020 model don't seem to mention the capability of changing permanent code. Of course people may argue the word permanent implies it cannot be changed. When I'm given a pre-created password, the first thing I do is to change it and save the new password in a password manager with two factor authentication. Sadly Ford doesn't allow changing it. The code could have been exposed in the factory or dealer. Guess I have to live with it like many other potential security holes.
FTE Community Team
Joined: Mar 2017
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From: Florida
If you ever lose the permanent code it is also printed on the back of one of the modules behind the passenger side fuse panel.
Here’s a video of a F150 location. It’s the same in the Super Duty
Here’s a video of a F150 location. It’s the same in the Super Duty
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2014
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From: IA/GA/HI/FL/VA/CA/ME
Page 69 and 70 on the manual for 2020 model don't seem to mention the capability of changing permanent code. Of course people may argue the word permanent implies it cannot be changed. When I'm given a pre-created password, the first thing I do is to change it and save the new password in a password manager with two factor authentication. Sadly Ford doesn't allow changing it. The code could have been exposed in the factory or dealer. Guess I have to live with it like many other potential security holes.
Cargo Master
Joined: Feb 2020
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Haha yes. It's not paranoia if you know they're after you.
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New User
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A physical key is harder to get than a code. Physical key can be replaced but this permanent code cannot. This is like "a permanent ssn has been assigned to you and you cannot change it even it's leaked and exploited". I'd hope Ford could at least give an option to disable this code.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jun 2020
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From: Seattle area, WA USA
A physical key is harder to get than a code. Physical key can be replaced but this permanent code cannot. This is like "a permanent ssn has been assigned to you and you cannot change it even it's leaked and exploited". I'd hope Ford could at least give an option to disable this code.