just got a 2000 f150 and the key that came with it, isnt programed... is there any way i can get it to to work without having to take it to the dealership to have them reprogram the whole thing, can a locksmith do it? or can i put in a whole new ignition system in some how with a new key and by pass the computer anti theft system?

 

Some locksmiths will be able to do it.
There is no way to bypass the PATS unless you get a custom tune on a handheld programmer that turns off PATS and load it in your trucks computer.
Swapping in a new ignition wont help you any.

 

Search PATS here in FTE.
Call around to local locksmiths to find one who can do the keys and programming.

Once you have two programed keys you can program up to a total of six more yourself.
Buy blank keys on E-bay and have them cut.

Programming information in the owners manual.
https://www.fleet.ford.com/maintenan...ls/default.asp

I have 4 keys for each of my Fords.
That way if I lose a key I still have the 2 needed to program a new key.

My in-laws have a key for each of my Fords that they can bring or send to me should I be stranded on the road due to a lost key.

In addition you may want to have a Non-PATS key cut and placed in a "Hide-A-Key" on your vehicle in case you get locked out with your keys in the vehicle.

 

The minimum number of PATS keys for an F150 is 2, otherwise you must pay a dealer big $ to generate a 2nd key. You need 2 programmed PATS keys to program a 3rd PATS key, it is as if PATS keys must use sex to reproduce. (As previously mentioned, the technique for programming PATS keys #3-#8 is well known). If you have an F150 that needs PATS keys and you have lost all your keys, few if any locksmiths will be able to help you, you will have to go to a dealer and pay the big bucks. My preferred bundle of keys for my F150: one PATS key on my keyring, one PATS key in my wallet, and non-PATS key hidden on the outside of the vehicle to allow my access to the cab should I lock myself out, and a 3rd PATS key at home in case all else fails. I have thought of putting a 4th PATS key in a specially engineered recess in the heel of my shoe, but I guess that would be going too far.
A non-PATS key is simply one without the chip, available to fit your door locks & ignition system but without the circuitry that allows your F150 to be started. These can cost as little at $1 at discount key makers.
Some locksmiths will carry Ford PATS keys, some won't. I bought one from a local locksmith & then found out I couldn't program it. He checked it and found out the circuitry that he had paid for was not in the key blank, someone in his supply chain had cheated him. He gave me a full refund.