when I purchased my 2011 ford ranger it came with 1 key now I am in need of a second. so my question is do I have t get the same looking key or can I get the one with the fob with it ( the all in one key and fob)

 

in theory it should work, we use the regular pats key in place of the fob one all the time so i dont see why the reverse wouldnt be true. and the individual 3 button fob works as well with the built in style

 

If your ignition lock looks like this: https://contentinfo.autozone.com/zne...14380/image/2/

and NOT like this: https://contentinfo.autozone.com/zne...61770/image/2/

Then yes, problem with the 2nd one is that the key/fob combo unit is too wide won't let the key slide in all the way into the narrow slot

And to add a KEY of any kind you do need access to PATS programming, so either get Forscan software and cable, or most any locksmith can cut and add PATS keys using their laptop plugged into your vehicle

You can of course add the Fob yourself just by following the instructions, but you need to add ALL the fobs you have at that time, because entering "Fob programming mode" ERASES all previous Fobs from memory

 

Can you use any ford fob from any year (like the one below) or does it have to be from that year the car was made?

 

^that will not work, thats for the newer intelligent access system