Lincoln Nautilus Key Fob Programming by Year

Can you program a Nautilus fob without the dealer? For most years, yes. Pick your year for the route and best next step.

Find your year

YearDIY onboard?How it programsWorking fob?Erase riskConfidenceBest next step
2019–2022YesYes - onboard relearnYes (2 working)PossibleMedFollow the steps below
2023–2026NoNo - needs a programmer/toolYes (2 working)PossibleMedWe bring the tool to you

Lincoln Nautilus key types & programming facts

Lincoln states that Nautilus key systems can use an Intelligent Access Key with push-button start, and that key replacement/reprogramming depends on the vehicle’s key type and security system. For 2019-2021 Nautilus, a replacement smart key fob listing shows FCC ID M3N-A2C31243300 and indicates compatibility with factory-installed keyless entry smart-key systems, while another source identifies FCC ID M3N-A2C940780 for a 2019 Nautilus remote.

Key types used on the Nautilus:

  • smart/proximity push-to-start (Intelligent Access Key) (2019-2026)
  • smart key / integrated keyhead transmitter (2019-2026)

Common fob FCC IDs: M3N-A2C31243300, M3N-A2C940780 — check the back of your fob; we confirm the exact variant on site.

2019–2022 Lincoln Nautilus

Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment

Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.

Show the programming methods (17 steps)

Programming prerequisites

Programming step
1 Requirement: Must have two previously programmed keys and the new unprogrammed key readily accessible
Programming step
2 Alternative: If only one or no programmed keys available, contact a local Locksmith
Programming step
3 Location for procedure: Center console lid opened
Press / hold a fob button
4 Orientation of key: Buttons facing up and unlock button facing the front of vehicle
Programming step
5 Slot used: Back up slot inside the center console

Step-by-step programming sequence (first programmed key)

Programming step
1 Place first programmed key into backup slot with specified orientation
Press / hold a fob button
2 Press ignition button
Press / hold a fob button
3 Wait 5 seconds then press ignition button again
Remove the key
4 Remove the first programmed key
Wait / timing window
5 Timing between steps: proceed within specified wait periods

Step-by-step programming sequence (second programmed key and new key)

Press / hold a fob button
1 Within 10 seconds after removing first key, place second programmed key into backup slot and press ignition button
Press / hold a fob button
2 Wait 5 seconds then press ignition switch again
Remove the key
3 Remove the second programmed key and wait 5 seconds
Press / hold a fob button
4 Place the unprogrammed key into backup slot and press the ignition switch
Doors lock-cycle (confirm)
5 Completion confirmation: Information cluster displays a message confirming key programming

Troubleshooting and additional links

Wait / timing window
1 If programming unsuccessful: wait 10 seconds and repeat the procedure
Programming step
2 Battery suggestion: Key Fob Not Working? Have You Tried Replacing the Battery?

2023–2026 Lincoln Nautilus

Professional programming required

Professional programming for the 2023–2026

This year needs a programmer/scan tool - there is no owner-followable onboard sequence. A mobile locksmith confirms your key type and FCC ID, then programs it on site.

Call (833) 439-8636

How we validate this guide

Year coverage comes from our consolidated vehicle programming dataset. Route-level programming status is reviewed against internal route sheets and available manufacturer, security-access, and professional tool references. Exact button sequences are marked source-verified only when we have year/equipment-specific support; where a year is labeled “route verified, steps vary,” we confirm the exact fob, trim, and prompts before programming. Reviewed for route and safety by Mohammad H. Abdelhadi, ALOA-Certified Master Locksmith.

YearRoute statusExact steps
2019–2022Route verifiedGeneral guidance
2023–2026Route verified (tool)Professional route

Common questions

What key type does a Lincoln Nautilus use?

Lincoln describes the Nautilus key system as an Intelligent Access Key with push-button start; some Lincoln sources also use the term Smart Key / Integrated Keyhead Transmitter.

Are there FCC IDs available for Nautilus replacement remotes?

Yes for some 2019-2021 listings: M3N-A2C31243300 and M3N-A2C940780 are both cited for Nautilus-related remotes.

Does key programming require special equipment?

Lincoln says key replacement and reprogramming depends on the vehicle’s key type and security system; published sources for Nautilus also indicate certain remotes require professional programming or vehicle-based programming routes.

Can you program a Nautilus key fob without going to the dealership?

For most years, yes - the route is onboard relearn or an OBD tool, both of which a mobile locksmith handles at your location.

Does this program the remote only, or the transponder key too?

It depends on your key type. Tell us your FCC ID and we will confirm.

What if my year says professional programming required?

Those years need a programmer or security access; we bring the tool to you and program it on site.

How much does it cost?

It depends on year, key type, and whether you have a working key. Call (833) 439-8636 for a firm price before we dispatch.

Need your Nautilus fob programmed? We come to you, 24/7.
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