Lost Car Keys Replacement

All You Need to Know about Car Keys, Programming and more

Program Ford keys made easy. All the information you need to know how to program a new Ford key without the original, how to make a duplicate, which keys you can program yourself, procedures, what you should know before, and more.

Ford key coding information
Ford key coding information

 

Ford keys & programming machine
Ford keys & programming machine

 

Need help? Call Now: 800-223-1453 

 

Watch a short video: How a locksmith is coding a new Ford key fob

A short video how a locksmith is coding a new Ford key fob (With a special machine)
A short video how a locksmith is coding a new Ford key fob (With a special machine)

 

In this article:

All Ford key fobs and transponder keys require coding
All Ford key fobs and transponder keys require coding

Introduction to programming Ford keys and remotes key fobs

Ford keyless entry remotes – All you need to know

Automotive locksmith coding a new Ford key fobs on-site
Automotive locksmith coding a new Ford key fobs on-site

PATS 1-5 Systems – What are they? How does it help us program a new Ford key?

Tips for programming your new key

The actual procedure of programming a new Ford key(PATS1 only)

Ford key coding - Transponder chip key
Ford key coding – Transponder chip key

How to add a duplicate Ford key once you already have a working key?(PATS1)

How to add a duplicate Ford key once you already have a working key?(PATS2-5)

How to program Ford key fobs or remotes?

What can I do to save money on getting a duplicate or a new Ford remote/key made?

Ford key/remote replacement programming cost.

Automotive locksmith coding a new Ford key fob on-site
Automotive locksmith coding a new Ford key fob on-site

I already have a programmed key/remote, I just need a duplicate – Ford duplicate key/remote  cost

How to program a keyless entry remote for Ford models? All you need to know

 

Introduction:

Ford keys & remotes programming - All you need to know
Ford keys & remotes programming – All you need to know

Making a new key for Ford models takes time and money. Both cutting the actual key and coding it (in most cases) require help from an outside source like the dealer or an automotive locksmith. The process of making a new key to start the car involved, basically, two phases:

 

A. Cutting a new key :

"Blank" uncut Ford keys - Some need to be coded, one does not (bottom)
“Blank” uncut Ford keys – Some need to be coded, one does not (bottom)

That means cutting a blank key to match the ignition and will be able to turn the ignition to “ON” or “RUN” position.  You can call the dealer or a locksmith to cut the key for you. Keep in mind, you will have to provide proof of ownership and the VIN number.

 

B. Program the key –

Coding a new Ford remote - Coding machine is required
Coding a new Ford remote – Coding machine is required

Most of Ford models made in the past 20 years are equipped with some sort of transponder security feature.

That security feature requires an additional action (programming the key) to start the car.

Either a locksmith or a dealer can program the key for you if you choose to.

However, the car will have to be towed there.

Alternatively, for some models, you can do it yourself. The instruction below shows you how to program the new key yourself without any special equipment or help from an outside source.

Call Now: 800-223-1453 

 

IMPORTANT:

All Ford key fobs require a special programming machine
All Ford key fobs require a special programming machine

Programming a new key when you do not have a working key only possible for Models with a PATS1 system. (Here is the list of models that have PATS1 system: Ford Contour 97-98, Expedition 97-98,(optional transponder), Mustang 96-97(optional transponder), Mystique 97-2000 optional transponder), Navigator 1998, Sable 96-97(optional transponder), Taurus 96-97.

Most Ford transponder keys require a special coding machine
Most Ford transponder keys require a special coding machine

The most common keys that PATS1 uses are H72-PT and H73PT. The rest of the transponder keys are for PATS2-5.

Adding a duplicate or creating an additional key is possible for all models.

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A step-by-step on how to program a new Ford key when all keys are lost, troubleshooting, what you should know and more.

High-security Ford transponder key - Needs to be programmed
High-security Ford transponder key – Needs to be programmed

 

Some Ford models can be programmed without any special machine. Those models are equipped with a security system called PATS1. Models that are equipped with security systems PATS2-5 require a special programming machine if all keys are lost.

Therefore, if your car is equipped with a PATS1 system and you already have a cut key for any of these makes or models, you can program it yourself without calling a locksmith or tow the car to the dealer.

Here we will give detailed instructions on how to program a new key, what you should pay attention to, troubleshooting, and useful tips that can save you a lot of money and time.

Need to get a key first? Order it Here 

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A few tips before you start the process of programming a new car key for Ford models: PATS1 ONLY!

H73 - PT : This key used for PATS1 systems mostly
H73 – PT : This key used for PATS1 systems mostly

A. Once you program a new key, ALL previous keys will be erased and won’t start the car.

In other words, if you find your old key after programming the new one, it will not work.

Therefore, we highly recommend having at least two new cut keys and program them both.

Coding machine for Ford transponder keys and key fobs used by an automotive locksmith
Coding machine for Ford transponder keys and key fobs used by an automotive locksmith

B. Programming Ford keys require about 50 minutes of battery life, without the car being on.

Therefore, it is very important to make sure you have enough juice in the battery before starting the process. In case the battery dies during the process, the new master key will not program and you will have to start the procedure all over again.

H75 Ford Key - Non-transponder - No coding is needed
H75 Ford Key – Non-transponder – No coding is needed

C. While Ford models with a PATS1 system can be programmed with this method, we would recommend verifying the type of key with a locksmith or an additional reliable source that it is the right key.

 

D. There are a few transponder keys (H72-PT, H73-PT, H74-PT, H86-PT, H92-PT, H94-PT) that work on Ford models. You must have the right type of transponder key that matches your model and year.

Otherwise, the key will not program. You can check the right key for the exact make and model here.

 

E. Most H72-PT and H73-PT are used for PATS1 systems(older models, usually 96-99). The rest are used for PATS2-5 systems.

Need Help? Call Us Now: 800-223-1453 

Or Click to Get a New Key online

Click To Order Online
Click To Order Online

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Here is the procedure you should follow to program a new Ford TRANSPONDER  key – without the original for PATS1 cars only:

Program Ford Keys - Procedure and Type Of Keys
Program Ford Keys – Procedure and Type Of Keys
  1. Insert the new cut and unprogrammed key you have into the ignition cylinder and turn it to the “ON” position. Make sure you look at the dash as the security/theft light should flash as you turn the key. If the security light doesn’t illuminate it means you have a problem with your battery and you should charge or replace it.
  2. Once the security light flashes, it will stay on for fifteen minutes. We suggest you have a stopwatch as well because the next step will have to happen within three minutes and you don’t want to miss that.
  3. After the first 15 minutes, the security light will stop flashing, within three minutes, you should turn the ignition cylinder into “OFF” position and then back to “ON” again. The security light on the dash should flash for an additional fifteen minutes and then go off.
  4. Within three minutes, turn the ignition cylinder into “OFF” position and then back to “ON” again. The security light on the dash should flash for an additional 15 minutes and then go off.
  5. Once the security light goes off after the 3rd time (total 45 minutes) the new key should be programmed and start the car. Keep in mind, ALL other keys will not work anymore. Now you can start the car. We highly recommend making a copy of the key.

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Call Now: 800-223-1453 

 

I already have a working key, I just want to make a duplicate. What is the procedure of programming an extra duplicate key?

The process of making a duplicate key, when you already have two or more working keys is fairly easy and therefore we recommend doing so.

Once again, there is a difference between PATS1 system and PATS2-5.

The more common models are PATS 2-5 and we will start with those keys first.

Ford transponder chip key - Inside look
Ford transponder chip key – Inside look

Here is what you will need to add a duplicate Ford key for PATS2-5:

  1. Two already programmed and working keys.
  2. A cut key that you wish to program – make sure it has the right transponder value as your other key.
  3. You can program up to eight additional keys for each vehicle using the PATS2-5 system.

 

Here are the steps you should take to program an additional Ford key:

  1. insert your first original key – One of the two keys that currently you are able to start the car with into the ignition cylinder.
  2. Turn the ignition cylinder to “ON” position for one second and after to “OFF” position.
  3. Remove the first original key from the ignition cylinder.
  4. Repeat step 2 with the second already programmed key.
  5. Now you have five seconds to do the next step.
  6. Insert the key you want to duplicate into the ignition cylinder and turn it to “ON” position.
  7. Take a look at the security light. It should go on for about 2 seconds which will indicate the new key has been successfully programmed.
  8. repeat steps 1-7 for each additional key you would like to duplicate.

 

Here is what you will need to add a duplicate Ford key for PATS1:

  1. One already programmed and working key.
  2. A cut key that you wish to program – make sure it has the right transponder value as your other key.
  3. You can program up to sixteen additional keys for each vehicle using the PATS1 system.
Program an Additional / Duplicate Ford Key is Easy
Program an Additional / Duplicate Ford Key is Easy

Here are the steps you should take to program an additional Ford key:

  1. insert your original key – The key that currently you are able to start the car with into the ignition cylinder.
  2. Turn the ignition cylinder to “ON” position for one second and after to “OFF” position.
  3. Remove the original key from the ignition cylinder.
  4. Now you have five seconds to do the next step.
  5. Insert the key you want to duplicate into the ignition cylinder and turn it to “ON” position.
  6. Take a look at the security light. It should go on for about 2 seconds which will indicate the new key has been successfully programmed.
  7. repeat steps 1-6 for each additional key you would like to duplicate.

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How to program Ford key fobs or remotes?

Ford latest generation of remotes key fobs - Better security features - Coding is needed
Ford latest generation of remotes key fobs – Better security features – Coding is needed

Ford remote car keys, also known as key fobs, smart keys, or push-to-start keys, are the latest generation of security car keys.

Therefore, onboard programming or self-programming is not available for these types of keys or remotes, and additional equipment or programming/coding machine is necessary to complete this process.

An automotive locksmith or dealer will have to connect this machine to the car’s computer and only then a duplicate or a new key can be made.

Below, a few examples of Ford remote key fobs that require a programming machine:
Ford Remote Car Keys - Programming Required
Ford Remote Car Keys – Programming Required

 

Below, an example of programming machines, used by the dealer or an automotive locksmith to program Ford remote key fobs:

 

Car key programming machine for Ford remotes & key fobs used by an automotive locksmith
Car key programming machine for Ford remotes & key fobs used by an automotive locksmith

 

Ford keys coding machine
Ford keys coding machine

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How can I save money on getting a duplicate or a new Ford key/remote made?

As we explained above, the process of getting a new key involves cutting the new key and program it.

When you call a locksmith or the dealer, they will charge you for a service call, the actual key, the labor of cutting the key and programming.

Fortunately, you can save the money of the key by ordering it online, and only have them cut and program it. This alone will save you about $50-$100 as the locksmith or the dealer make a profit by selling you the key as well.

True, it may take a longer time to get the key from Amazon but if you are not in a big rush or need a key ASAP, we recommend you do that. This is especially true if you only need a duplicate made.

Automotive locksmith making a duplicate key fob - Ford
Automotive locksmith making a duplicate key fob – Ford
The bottom line, how and what should I do?
  1. Order your key online – Make sure you get the right key. In case you get the wrong key or remote programming will not be possible. You can look up your exact key for your Ford model Here. Simply choose your model and year and get it online. You can order your key here.
  2. Call the dealer or locksmith – Explain to them you already have the key/remote and would only like it to be cut and/or programmed. Ask them for the quote on this procedure only.

    Ford key fob - Inside look
    Ford key fob – Inside look
  3. In addition, keep in mind, the process usually costs somewhere between $80-$150, depends on the type of key/remote you have.
  4. Finally, schedule a time with them to have it done. Remember to provide them with the exact year, make and model, VIN number and make sure you have proof of ownership.

Call Now: 800-223-1453 

Or Click to Get a New Key online

Click To Order Online
Click To Order Online

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Ford remote programming cost – How much does it cost to program a new Ford transponder key and remote.

As stated above, getting your Ford key online and having the dealer or an automotive locksmith program it for you can save you a lot of money. If you need to order your key, you can do it HERE.

Ford key / remote coding cost depends on the type of key you had
Ford key / remote coding cost depends on the type of key you had

Programming a new Ford key, assuming you already have a blank key, basically involves two phases:

 

1. Cutting the key or remote so it will fit your car’s ignition.
Emergency key fob on a cutting machine
Emergency key fob on a cutting machine

Before the key can be programmed, it needs to be cut to fit your car. The way an automotive locksmith or the dealership do that is by “pulling” the key code, using your VIN from the database. This costs them money and therefore, they charge you for it. (Unlike when you already have a cut key and just need a duplicate)

 

2. Program the key or remote – To actually start the car.

The programming procedure is simply a process to let your car know that the new key is “authorized” to start the car. That being done by connecting a programming machine to your car’s computer.

Both the dealer and an automotive locksmith will have to do the same thing, however, the prices vary:

Ford key / remote programming cost
Ford key / remote programming cost
Cost of programming Ford key by the dealer:
Coding a new Ford key fob - Dealer price
Coding a new Ford key fob – Dealer price

These are average costs, as it really depends on the year and model of your Ford car.

Cutting the key: Usually around $50

Programming the key: Usually around $50

In addition, you will have to tow your car to the dealer which is an additional expanse of $100 (estimate)

Total estimated cost: $200

164-R7989 Ford key fob - Need to be cut and coded
164-R7989 Ford key fob – Need to be cut and coded

 

Cost of programming Ford key by an automotive locksmith:
Coding a new Ford key fob - Locksmith price
Coding a new Ford key fob – Locksmith price

These are average costs, as it really depends on the year and model of your Ford car, your location(as a locksmith will come to you) time of day, etc.

We checked the prices during regular business hours, the same as we did with the dealer, and here are the results:

Cutting the key: Usually around $50

Programming the key: Usually around $50

In addition, an automotive locksmith usually charges a service call or a trip charge which is usually about $50

Total estimated cost: $150

In conclusion, as you can see, the price of replacing and programming your Ford key is not cheap and therefore we highly recommend making an extra key while replacing your key as it is much cheaper than making a new one in case you lost all your keys.

Call Now: 800-223-1453 

Or Click to Get a New Key online

Click To Order Online
Click To Order Online

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I already have a programmed key or remote, I just need a duplicate – Ford duplicate key /remote cost

Ford duplicate key cost - By dealer & automotive locksmith
Ford duplicate key cost – By dealer & automotive locksmith

 

As stated above, some Ford keys for older models can be self-programmed. However, newer generation keys and remotes can only be programmed or duplicated with a programming machine.

The price of making a duplicate Ford key is cheaper than making an original key when all keys are lost for two main reasons:

  1. You already have a cut key – That means no need to “pull” code from the database.
  2. Your car’s computer already “knows” that one key is authorized to start the car and therefore we can use that key to add some more. (Note that not in all models and years it’s possible)

 

Here is the average cost of getting a duplicate Ford key by the dealership and an automotive locksmith:

Cost of duplicate a Ford key by the dealer:

These are average costs, as it really depends on the year and model of your Ford car.

Cutting the key: Usually around $10

Programming the key: Usually around $100

Total estimated cost: $110

The newer the key is - the more expansive it is (Ford key fob 2020)
The newer the key is – the more expansive it is (Ford key fob 2020)

 

Cost of duplicate a Ford key by an automotive locksmith:

These are average costs, as it really depends on the year and model of your Ford car, your location(as a locksmith will come to you) time of day, etc.

We checked the prices during regular business hours, the same as we did with the dealer, and here are the results:

Cutting the key: Usually around $10

Programming the key: Usually around $90

In addition, an automotive locksmith usually charges a service call or a trip charge which is usually about $50 or you can drive your car to the locksmith shop and save this expanse which we obviously recommend

Total estimated cost: $100

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Call Now: 800-223-1453 

Or Click to Get a New Key online

Click To Order Online
Click To Order Online

 

Useful links:

Ford main page

Order online 

Car key replacement cost