So I've searched and read a few threads across the Ranger boards and saw the steps to programming your own keys. Question is how does the dealership or locksmith (if they have the means) program the extra keys when you only have one key? Do they have a computer or other device to program the keys outside of the vehicle or do they have a way to still program them inside the ignition switch? I'm already looking to purchase a couple of uncut Ford keys from transponderisland and then get them programmed lator on as funds become available.

 

No way, me too!! I'm in the same situation!! I bought the truck used, and it only came with one key.

I check it out with the local ford dealership. They told me it has to be done in twos.....basically my current key would be deemed useless, and I would have to pay for two keys, programming both new keys to the truck.....then be left with 2 keys and 1 that's useless, other than getting into the door. Cost was quoted around $165!!

Needless to say, I, for more than two years, and gone with only one key.

 

If you have 2 keys, you can program the third by yourself (do a search and you'll find the instructions).

If you only have one key, you get hosed by the dealer to reprogram the two of them.

 

That part I understand. How do they do it, though?

 

they set a new program and reprogram the original to match the new one.

it's the same with keyfobs

 

fx4wannabe01: them telling you that it needs to be done in a pair and then your original will be useless is total BS. Someone I know did it for me for my GFs '03. We had 1 key that worked, and I got 2 blanks and had them cut. He hooked up a computer through the OBD2 port and accessed the security features of the truck, then he erased all keys from it, then he told it to accept a new key and went through the process using the computer and put all 3 keys into it. If you have 1 key already cut to yours you would only need to buy 1 more and have it cut and have them program your truck for the original key and the new one. Any more that you would want you could program in yourself at a later time. The way it works is the key doesn't get programmed to the truck, each key has it's own serial ID in it, and the truck remembers the serial ID of each key programmed into it. So when they reprogram the new keys it wipes the memory of all old keys clean and they start fresh and install the keys they have on hand, meaning that there is no reason in the world that they can give you of why your original key cannot be used. Although it will funny to hear the reasons they give you. But now you know how it works and is done so you can counter their BS with fact and put them in their place.

 

TireIron, did he have his own software in a personal computer for this or did he have actual equipment used by the dealership? I am bringing this topic back up because I stumbled across one of these on Ebay.

The description is as follows.

"Hickok P-Squared Ford Quick Scan software package.

Model 90062
P-Squared Ford Quick Scan
Comprehensive Ford and Lincoln/Mercury Diagnostics Right in your hand!
Easy To Use
P-Squared for PalmTM and Pocket PC based handheld computers is simple and easy-to-understand.

Up To Date
Supports 1996-2005 Ford and Lincoln/Mercury cars and trucks, including CAN. Affordable annual updates!

Broad Diagnostics Coverage
Displays and clears fault codes, runs self-tests, displays freeze frame data, and retrieves PIDs for over 40 different electronic systems (including airbags, ABS, and instrument cluster) on Ford and Lincoln/Mercury vehicles.

The P-Squared v2.0 software release contains the folowing new features:

Support for Active commands for CAN and non-CAN modules.
PATS key programming support added. This includes both PATS I & PATS II support for years ranging from 1998 - 2005 for both Non-CAN and CAN based modules.
Medium Speed CAN now supported*, including modules: Drivers Front Seat, Rear Seat Entertainment, Audio Control, Driver Climate Control Seat, Liftgate/Trunk, Park Aid, Vehicle Dynamics, Vehicle Security

Features Benefits
• All Ford L/M Models (96-Current) • Comprehensive Coverage
• Access All Parameters (PIDs) • Diagnostic Accuracy
• Ease of Navigation • Quick Response
• Read & Clear All Codes
"Proprietary"
• Quick Fault Identification
• Read & Clear All Codes • Including "Proprietary"
• Real-time Graphing Capabilities • Quick, Visual-based Diagnostics
• Update Software via the Internet • Readily Accessible

Model 90062 P-Squared Ford Quick Scan Kit Includes:
Vehicle Interface Module
PDA Interface Cable*
CD with P2 Software*
User Guide
Quick Reference Manual*
Carrying Case

* These items are shipped upon product registration.

The Model 90062 P-Squared Ford Quick Scan works on the following supported hardware:

PDA Manufacturer Supported Models
Dell X3
X3i
X30
X5
X50/X50V
Hewlett-Packard h2200
h3800
h3900
h4100
h4300
h5100
h5400
h5500
hx2100
hx2400
hx2700
hx4700
rx3100
rx3400
rx3700
rz1700 is NOT SUPPORTED"

If I could program my own keys using this hardware/software I would. I hate paying someone else to do any kind of work on my vehicle even if it's just once that I'd ever have to do it.

 

hey.

Thanks for all the info....very helpful. Yea....I jsut checked one time and that one time was more than two years ago. Just another ploy for a dealership to dig a butt load of money out of ya. Now that I have a couple friends at the ford dealership....I gotta do this for a back up.