I have a question for someone. I don't know where I read it, but I think I saw something that said a replacement key can be programmed by the customer if the original two keys are present. The reason I ask is that I have to sacrifice one of my keys for my remote starter/alarm system and I should probably get another key so I don't only have one. Can anyone help me with this? Also, do I have to get the replacement key from my dealer? How much are they with and without programming?

Thanks.

 

Programming is in your owners manual. You can get key blanks on the net..

 

I belive the keys are about $25 at the dealer... A little steep, but at least you don't have to fart around with programming.

 

If you get the keys at a dealer, you still have to program them. The instructions are in the manual, but you need the two original keys.

 

Ok, gotcha. Found them at www.fordpartsnetwork.com for $19.50. Anyone know of another that's cheaper?

 

i went to a very well known locksmith here in austin and to get a spare key they said i would need my truck and the keys to make a spare and that would cost around 30 dollors.

 

I bought a used '99 from a used car dealer associated with a new Ford dealer. I got only one key and thought no prob I'll get some made.

READ YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL. It takes two keys to program a new one.

Found out keys are $20+ and since I only had one key programming is $70+!! BTW this is not a dealer only item now but the equipment is expensive soo all locksmiths won't be able to make you a key.

I was lucky. I got my dealer to cover programming with his associate and I got his associate to sell me the keys at wholesale.

I got the locksmith I use at work to make me a dummy key, that won't start the truck, for my wallet so I can get into the truck and get to one I hid in the truck so I'll be able to start the truck.

I now have 3 real keys so hopefully I won't have less than two keys and won't have to go thru all that again.

Some poor guy posted on one of the sites that he lost his only key out in the boonies!! and wanted to know his options.

BTW - this applies to '99's and newer. The chip/code is in the key and the computer will only accept 8 codes. Also in my case it was advisably to have the other old code removed from the computer for security's sake.

 

Just ask me! I lost one of my two. SO, to get new keys, i had bring the truck to the dealer, they then wipe out the existing code on the truck, then reprogram your existing key and however many new ones you want. I got 3 this time! Cost me over $150 for all of that! So before you lose one, get at leasta 3rd one made right away so you don't have to do what i did!

Tony

 

When i first got my truck, they only gave me one key to start with. They later sent the other key BY MAIL!!!! and of course, I recieved an empty envelope. So, Ticked off, and worried someone with my address and key could just come and take my truck, I went to the dealer who re-keyed the whole truck and gave me a total of three keys along with free floor mats. They definately know how to make mistakes, at least they made up for it!

Either way, I was told if you have the two keys, it's about $30 for the dealer to make you another

 

Look on Ebay, once in awhile there are some people selling blanks. I bought 2 spares for 12.00 each off EBAY. Cost a couple bucks to have cut and about 2 minutes to program following the owners manual. As long as you have a new blank any locksmith can cut them. The locksmith who cut mine had a code reader and checked to make sure my old and new were the same for free. Get one made before you lose one of the originals, as they said in earlier posts it can get expensive to lose one.
I keep a extra set at the other house so I always have a spare somewhere.

 

You don't have to sacrafice a key to get your remote starter to work. The unit on my truck uses a crystal transponder ($48) that duplicates the signal from my key. You need a remote start unit that has a factory alarm disarm lead and a couple extra relays to hook it up. A good quality install shop should be able to set you up....................

 

Yes I would say that sacraficing one of your keys for your remote start must be from a alarm installer from the caveman days, Their is one company that makes a microchip which is programmable just like a remote is for an alarm system and the good thing is you can take your pic of alarm systems to a certain extent, DEI which is Phython, Viper and Sidewinder all made by Directed Electronics make the microchip with a lead that comes off of it and it goes directly into on of their master brains, you will need both keys in order for them to program it as a 3rd key and it is a little tricky to find the right spot on you recognition box but a good installer will get it within 5 or 6 try's and you'll be on your way, DEI is the only one that really lasts the crystal setup isn't reliable, I've had mine on for about 3 yrs now and not a problem. Goodluck.

 

Odd, the unit I got is from DEI. I have the Hornet 553T, and the extra module I got is the 555U. It works, but I had to buy an extra key to put into the box.