My 99 only came with one key. The manual says you must have two working keys in order to program additional keys yourself. Is the dealership really the only option if I only have one key, or is there a way to do a second key myself?

 

That is correct.

Although many locksmiths have the scanner and software to program a set of Ford keys, so call around to local locksmiths and check. They would most likely be cheaper.
I know the Auto Enginuity scantool software will allow you to program keys too.


-Mike

 

My local locksmith was 1/2 the cost of the dealer.

 

So what is the actual cost?

 

It was something like $65 for the key and the programming.

 

Walmart will clone your single key for about $50 It wont work as the second key to program additional keys. It will work as spare key to start and run the truck.

 

The keys are not actually "programmed".
They only contain a code which is read by the PATS.
When a new key is added or accepted by the car it is added to the "key codes accepted" list, or whatever it is called.
The list for Excursions can contain 8 key codes.
It takes 2 different coded keys to accept more.
Not sure, but I think if you have only one key the dealer has equipment to access the computer and allow it to accept more coded keys.

 

Walmart told me they couldn't.

 

If you get a good ODB2 scanner, like OBDLink MX or similar, you can use FORScan on Windows to program the keys yourself. It costs about 99 bucks, and you get to keep the scanner, rather than handing over 60-70 bucks and only have a key to show for it.

 

The "clone" keys sold by Walmart and the other big box stores are indeed programmed but they are the exception. They're considered to be "one-time programmable". "Regular" PATS keys are not, they're pre-programmed with a unique RFID code that is then programmed into the vehicle's system.

Not all stores have this capability, you have to call around. Same for Lowes, Home Depot, and hardware chains like Ace and True Value.

Ding! Ding! Ding! Winner! Winner! Winner! The interface is about $80, the software is currently free.

 

you can use the SX (wired) version, much cheaper in amazon ($31) and works reliably than wireless.


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1


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OBDLink® LX Bluetooth | OBDLink® | OBD Solutions

You can, but it doesn't support the same protocols as the MX, such as GM single wire CAN and more importantly, Ford MS-CAN. The wifi version doesn't have stellar feedback, but the bluetooth version is very good. I'm using it myself, and I have programmed keys for my '05 Expy with it.

While you're at it, you may check if there's an aftermarket GT style key available, here's the one I got:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-GT-STYLE-FLIP-KEY-REMOTE-FOR-FORD-EXPLORER-EXPEDITION-CHIP-KEYLESS-ENTRY-FOB-/131883176041?hash=item1eb4d99069

 

unless he has a 2007 or newer Fords then he needs the MSCAN functionality. He got a 99 which doesn't use it. My 2003 Navigator doesn't even have one (only UBP which is sadly not supported by ForScan and HS-CAN) and most people have great success on using the SX (price wise) for programming PATS.
they don't recommend any wireless stuff because if something goes wrong with the signal during programming then you have to tow it to the dealership for WTF moment.


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MS-CAN was used in the 2nd gen, at least '05 and '06, not sure of '03 and '04. Regardless, it's not a bad thing to have support for..

 

And Ford's own VCM2 scantools are wireless as well, using wi-fi. So being wireless isn't a problem, unless you have bad hardware or lots of interference in the area. We're not talking about a reflash anyway, just a key programming. Quick and easy procedure, minus the tedious 10 minute security waiting period...