Just brought home my new 2018 F250 XL 4x4 SCLB. Couple of quick Qs:

When the dealer handed me the keys, there's a "key code" tag with the keys; it's a five digit numerical code. I realize that XLs don't have the keypad, nor is that circuit enabled (would need ForScan to enable), but would this key code on the tag be the same and the one programmed into the vehicle control module by chance? Or is it only a code that designates how to make a spare for the physical key lock on the column?

Another question ... These "keys" are really fancy fob/folding key little gizmos. I was hoping for a more simple key. Are there any lesser expensive options that would still serve as a spare key?

 

The key code is the chip in that pain in the but black box, no more simple keys. If you dont have the fob the truck wont start. Anti theft. All keys have the chip and a code that allows the truck to start, so when you have a key made you need that code so the key will start your truck. And of course they bang ya 60 bucks to have a key made. No more home depot $3 keys.

 

Unless you know something I don't..... Your partially wrong. The keycode IS for the door keypad. He doesn't have it, but he still has the capability for it. I just did this install on my own XL.


However, you CAN have a spare key made for the truck without the chip. The only thing it will be good for is opening the doors, but that's usually what most people would use it for anyways .

 

When intelligent 'chip' keys are made, the truck is programmed to the key, NOT the key to the truck. Make sense?

 

 

I thought those little metal tags were for the box link key code in the bed of the truck

 

I am intrigued! Are you the one that did the Securicode upgrade to an XL? did you use ForScan? I would LOVE to have the keypad function on my truck. Do tell!

 

I made a small guide here.... :-). I'm not the first though

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...uper-duty.html

 

Awesome!

Anyone in the Indiana area have ForScan and want to help me do this? I am great at mechanical things, but more than a little shy on computer stuff. I am easily capable of the hard wiring, cutting, etc. Just not sure about ForScan.
I can drive to your place; pay for your help (cash, or beer/pizza!).

 

ForScan is not that hard to learn. And you might as well learn how to do it. If you ever take your truck in and they reflash your computer to update it.
You will loose everything you did with Forscan and need to re-do that programming. And have to find a friend to buy beer and pizza for again to re install the features yiou want. Might as well buy the dongle and learn how