I have a 1999 F250 Crew Cab 4x4 Powerstroke. It is XLT equipped with remote entry, but the REMOTE does not function with the engine running or with the ignition on. Does anyone know how to change this?

I lock my truck and leave it running alot using an additional key to regain entry to the vehicle, but would prefer to have to only use the REMOTE to unlock my door(s).

Any guidance here would be greatly appreciated.

Matt
Tulsa, OK

 

If it's factory keyless I don't think you can do it. I have a '98 Windstar that does the same thing. I believe it's a combination safety/security issue. However, with the Ford Gold alarm/keyless/remote starter that I put on my Super Duty it's no problem. But with that system you have to set the alarm before you can start it so the safety and security issue is resolved.

 

The factory REMOTE will not unlock the doors with the ignition on, and the engine running. I do not know of a way to change this behaviour.

However, the KEYLESS ENTRY pad on the door, will unlock the doors with the ignition on and the engine running.

( This is at least correct for my '04 Lariat. )

Many aftermarket systems can be programmed to operate the unlock function with the engine running, but I believe Ford considers that to be a safety issue.
I installed a remote start system (CrimeStopper) to improve the safety, and operating options of leaving the engine running while parked. I can leave the engine running and remove the keys from the igniton. Both the Keyless entry pad and the remote for my remote start system will unlock the doors to regain entry. In addition, even if someone breaks into the truck while the engine is running, the keys are not in the ignition. When they press the brake pedal without the ignition turned on, the engine will stop. It is not a foolproof anti-theft system, but is a whole lot better than leaving your keys in the ignition with the engine running.

If you leave your truck running while parked very often, you might want to consider adding a remote start system for the added safety and convenience.

 

Never could get it to work on my 2000 and it did not come with the keypad on the door. I had to use an extra key. My 06 is a different story. I use the keypad on the door and it works just fine with the motor running.

 

This feature was changed in '02, I believe. Before '02, the keyless entry (FOB or wireless keypad you could add) would not work with engine running... after '02, it works. Wish I knew a way to make it work on my 2000. For now I just carry two truck keys on my key ring, and if I want to leave it running but get out and lock it, I just take one key off the keyring and put it in my pocket. Bit of a hassle, but works for now.