How can I tell if I have a factory alarm installed in my '99 F150 4x4 XLT or not? I don't have any keychain actuators to arm/disarm it, but when I get in the truck before I put the key in the ignition I notice flashing red text "Theft" I believe it says. I need some help. I'm curious to know whether there is a factory alarm there and I just don't have the ability to arm/disarm it. Thanks for any input.

*Also, is there a way to get a factory keychain keypad and use it if there is a factory alarm installed, if so, where can I get one of these remotes and how can I program it? thanks in advance.

--McBride

 

The way you describe it, all you have is the 'PATS' (Passive Anti-Theft System) - unless you have the correct key, it kills the ignion. For 99, I don't belive that there was a 'factory' alarm. I have a 2000 Lariate, and the only thing my key fob does is lock / unlock the doors and have and emergency button which starts the horn a honkin'.

Larry

 

Every 1999 F150 has that blinking light.
It just means your ignition key has a big head because there is a chip in it.

Instead of 'THEFT' what the blinking light should say is:

'$35 to get a key made, $35 to get a key made"

 

The Theft light is tied into the microchip in the key. Not really a alarm system, but unless the truck and chip match, the truck will not start. It is more of a Theft Deterant system.

As for the remotes, you can either get them from the dealer or a salvage yard. The salvage yard may not have a large supply of them though as they don't usually get the keys to the vehicle. You can also order then from one of many online stores. Sorry, I don't remember any addresses right now. There are instructions in your Owner's Manual to program the remotes.

Hope this helps.

 

The Key FOBs are available on eBay and can be programmed if you have two keys (see owner's manual). If you don't have two keys, then it get's expensive.

BTW, blank keys are available on eBay, too.

John

 

right now I only have (1) key for my truck, but I want to get another one for backup. What's going to make it tougher/more expensive because I only have 1 key?

 

If you give someone a ignition key, (valet, service/repair etc) they can't make a duplicate that will start the truck because they only have one key to work with.

If you are the orginal owner, you have two keys and can program addtional keys.

If you bought the truck used and only got one key, you need to go to a dealer and have them program a key for you. They should ask for proof that the truck is yours.

If you bought it from a dealer they should have given you two keys, and 'I think' they owe you one.

You can make a key at any hardware store which will open the door and tailgate but, you need a 'programmed' key to start the truck.

 

It is fairly easy to determine if your truck has an alarm by performing the following steps:

1)Locate "seedy" neighborhood.
2)Park truck.
3)Leave truck unattended overnight.
4)Return next day for results.

Be sure to tell us how it turned out.