I have read multiple threads that say that 80 bit SA keys are backwards compatible with the 40 bit S systems. I bought some SA blanks from a good seller but it wouldn't program at a trusted locksmith.

I know its Possible that I have a bad key....but unlikely.

Any help guys?

Also, the locksmith had to use the code for a 2007 Escape as the 2008 Escape code wouldn't work...even with his S key. My truck was made in Jan 2008...so I guess it had leftover 2007 parts...LOL.

DS

 

anyone??

DS

 

80 bits are backwards compatible yes. My question is why in the world is everyone cheaping out and buying these aftermarket keys? The dealer key is $24.95 how cheap is that and always in stock. You don't know how many people come in with their aftermarket key, have us cut and prog it then it wont program and we sell them the right key and their cost just doubled. A darn locksmith brought me 2 cheap keys to program and wouldn't program, we poped the top cap on them and where the transceiver should have been there was a wad of paper in each ones, now their cost just doubled too. Oh and the key code would have been correct the first time if you just had gotten the code from the dealer.

 

I agree but was quoted $120 for the key with programming.

DS

 

People go to the aftermarket keys on eBay because the same key, sold by the dealer, sells for up to 6 times what you can get it for on eBay. I have used the keys sold on eBay for many vehicles with absolutely no problems. Maybe you can explain why the dealers charge so much...............

 

$24.95 is not allot I think we only make like $4 a key profit, the profit is in the labor which unless you have 2 keys you are still driving to the dealer anyway. The problem is that there are so many keys out there that are 100% tested compatible etc and you just don't know what you are buying most of time as stated even a local locksmith got swindled by his supplier. We have a guy that sell us ford knock offs we tried a few worked great only a few dollars cheaper by the time I was done cutting it the label was falling off etc. My question is why would you cheap out on a key that is of questionable build quality only to have intermittent or all together failure of the transceiver inside and it leaves you stranded. Once it happens on a subzero snowy night you will never think of buying anything else but a Ford key or Ilco something like that. Would you buy cheapest tires for your daughters car or a reputable brand. Have you ever seen a tire delaminate from heat at high speeds????? (extreme I know but just an example it happens in Arizona all the time).

 

Wow that is high, my dealer I work at out the door is about $70 with tax.