These instructions apply to the Ford Kuga Mk2 (C520) 2013-2019.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
If the KeyFree remote’s battery dies, a Ford Kuga Mk2 (2013–2019) with keyless start can’t detect it — but there is a backup slot on the steering column that lets you start the car anyway.
How to start a Kuga Mk2 with a dead key fob
- First unlock the car with the metal emergency key blade hidden in the fob — the door lock sits behind a cap on the driver’s door handle.
- Get in and find the backup key slot on the steering column, marked with a key/transmitter symbol.
- Place the whole fob (the passive key) into that slot, next to the symbol.
- With the fob in the slot, press the START/STOP button to switch on the ignition and start the engine as normal.
- Manual cars: if it won’t crank, press the clutch and brake fully together and hold the START/STOP button until the engine fires.
- Replace the fob’s CR2032 battery as soon as you can so keyless entry and start work again.
Frequently Asked Questions
My keyless Kuga won’t detect the fob — what’s wrong?
A flat fob coin cell is the usual cause. Use the steering-column backup slot to start, then fit a new CR2032.
How do I get into the car if the fob is dead?
Use the metal key blade inside the fob to unlock the driver’s door manually.
Does the backup slot work on every Kuga Mk2?
It is on KeyFree (keyless-start) cars. A Kuga with a conventional bladed key simply starts by turning the key as usual.
If the car flags a key or immobiliser fault, decode it on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Ford. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.