programmed or copied key ?
Laughing Gas
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,008
Likes: 5
So the Engine Control Unit and the PATS module are married together. This is so that thieves can't carry around an extra PATS module with them.
If your existing PATS module dies, you haul the Ex to the dealer. They replace the PATS module and remarry it to the ECU. They'll need a pair of keys to set it up properly.
If you're already paying for a service, what's another $50 on a new key.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 29,380
Likes: 118
From: Central Coast of CA
Ever since those cloning machines hit the hardware/home improvement stores, the only "problems" I've really seen affect users who post on the forum is the realization that a unique key and a cloned key will not work together to great a third programmed key.
Stewart
Stewart
Posting Guru
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 1,176
Likes: 4
From: Indiana
Take it from me- he's right.
FTE Remembers
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 8,259
Likes: 346
From: Northern California
I am well aware that stuff breaks and in anticipation of someday needed to replace my PCM or PATS , I am asking for clarification as to why I will care or what difference using a clone key is going to make when I need to replace those parts.
FTE Remembers
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 8,259
Likes: 346
From: Northern California
I assume he is, that is why I am asking what difference it makes if I use a copied key. "
since you are or were in the process of swapping you pcm or pats last time I read your thread. what difference did having a copied vs clone key make in your swap ?
I recall your challenge was that you were a considerable distance from the nearest dealer and taking it to them for programimg was expensive and a hassle ?
since you are or were in the process of swapping you pcm or pats last time I read your thread. what difference did having a copied vs clone key make in your swap ?
I recall your challenge was that you were a considerable distance from the nearest dealer and taking it to them for programimg was expensive and a hassle ?
FTE Remembers
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 8,259
Likes: 346
From: Northern California
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 2,066
Likes: 4
From: North Texas
My biggest problem with the clone keys was that they had a battery when they first appeared. It held the code in the key and when that battery dies the key would no longer work. I am told they have keys without batteries that can be cloned these days but most stores won't touch someone else's keys. As long as the clone key doesn't die or go corrupt you should be good to go.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 29,380
Likes: 118
From: Central Coast of CA
One could always make several clones and just put the remaining master unique key in a safe place.
Stewart
Stewart
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FTE Remembers
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 8,259
Likes: 346
From: Northern California
planning on owning a obsolete vehicle for many decades takes a little bit of for though but what scares me the most is exactly this sort of computer glitch. it might be 30 years from now and I'll be old and senile before it comes up but damn it if I will not have a contingency plan.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 1,176
Likes: 4
From: Indiana
since you are or were in the process of swapping you pcm or pats last time I read your thread. what difference did having a copied vs clone key make in your swap ?
I recall your challenge was that you were a considerable distance from the nearest dealer and taking it to them for programimg was expensive and a hassle ?
I recall your challenge was that you were a considerable distance from the nearest dealer and taking it to them for programimg was expensive and a hassle ?
My fear in your situation would be taking a trip somewhere far away from home and having the PCM and/or PATS system screw up while running on only clone keys. Your emergency dealer stop just got more expensive, as they would make you purchase, cut and program 2 new unique keys, in addition to the parts and labor bill.
Thread Starter
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Junior User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 51
Likes: 0
My biggest problem with the clone keys was that they had a battery when they first appeared. It held the code in the key and when that battery dies the key would no longer work. I am told they have keys without batteries that can be cloned these days but most stores won't touch someone else's keys. As long as the clone key doesn't die or go corrupt you should be good to go.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,008
Likes: 5
Stratec. That's the brand name that manufactures the keys and locks for Ford and many other car makers.
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 2,066
Likes: 4
From: North Texas
Stratec is the ones to have. They may just need programmed to the truck. Another time where I recommend giving forscan a try. It was able to add another unique Stratec key to a Mountaineer I had with only one key.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 1,108
Likes: 23
not knowing if additional copies could be made from a copy that is exactly what I did. better safe then sorry. but now it seems there is some other "copy key" gremlin lurking in the shadows.
planning on owning a obsolete vehicle for many decades takes a little bit of for though but what scares me the most is exactly this sort of computer glitch. it might be 30 years from now and I'll be old and senile before it comes up but damn it if I will not have a contingency plan.
planning on owning a obsolete vehicle for many decades takes a little bit of for though but what scares me the most is exactly this sort of computer glitch. it might be 30 years from now and I'll be old and senile before it comes up but damn it if I will not have a contingency plan.
Cross-Country
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 75
Likes: 8
From: Northport, NY
So this discussion has gotten me to realize that I am fool for not having extra keys made asi only have one!! So looking on eBay there are hundreds of sellers!!
How does this one look? http://m.ebay.com/itm/2-New-Black-Keyless-Remote-Alarm-Fobs-2-Uncut-Ignition-Transponder-Chip-Keys-/381042562191?nav=SEARCH
And yes I am going to try for home dumpo approach yielding me only "clones"
Just can't see spending the $125 that ford wants to make a key
How does this one look? http://m.ebay.com/itm/2-New-Black-Keyless-Remote-Alarm-Fobs-2-Uncut-Ignition-Transponder-Chip-Keys-/381042562191?nav=SEARCH
And yes I am going to try for home dumpo approach yielding me only "clones"
Just can't see spending the $125 that ford wants to make a key