I have a 2001 Explorer Sport that was just purchased recently used. I was given only one key thought no problem wha is another 5-10 dallars to get another key. Low and behold I come to find out it is a computer chip key. I have goten antoer key that has a chip in it and have had it keyed. The problem is the dealer' around me want any where from $85 to $125 to program it. My question is, is there any wher else that this can be done ie locksmith etc so the dealers do not get this undesired money?

 

Last year I lost my keys, & only had 1 ignition key. I went to a locksmith to get a price after calling the dealer - they wanted more than the dealer did.

I know there are threads on this board regarding programming the key fob - there may also be something about programming the key.

 

Look in the owner book there is a page on this.

 

Unfortunately, you need two operating keys to be able to program other keys yourself. My local dealer charged $55 to cut and program my second key. After that, I programed a third myself. The PATS system will handle up to 8 programed keys.

 

Thanks all. Yes I know you need two keys to program your own. Yes I read my owners manual concerning this item. And yes I have read the treads concerning this. All to no avail.

 

How long ago did you buy your truck? When I bought my 99 in May, they only had one key, and I did not have any problems with them providing a second FOC. I would think that if it was bought recently, they should do it for nothing... look at it this way... you buy a new car and you get two sets of keys.... why not with a used car?

 

It was perchasd in Nov 2003 from a non ford dealer and beforei releized it i had sign a comtract for as Dah real smart move. I agree that if you buy a new or used auto you should be furniished with two sets of keys.

 

I just purchased a 2001 Explorer from a Chrysler dealer in Beaverton Oregon, and they also only gave me one key. I think they figure that a used car buyer will never come back, and so don't care about leaving you in the lurch. Fortunately, a local locksmith took pity on me and after I bought a second key from him, he programmed it for $30.00. Our dealer wanted $80 to do the programming. I promptly had two additional keys made and programmed them myself that evening.

 

Cut as many plain jane keys from the existing key as you need then follow this procedure:

If you remove the shroud around the steering wheel you will see a little plastic ring around the lock. That is the antenna for the security system. If you remove the screw that holds it on you can pull the antenna off. When you get it off take your existing "chip" key and tie wrap it into the antenna ring so the head is inside the ring. Use a couple of tie wraps to make sure it stays put. Take the antenna and key "assy" that you have made and fold it back inside the plastic shroud and use a couple more tie wraps to hold it in place. Replace the plastic shroud. Now any of the keys you cut will operate the vehicle. Of course you no longer have your security function but that was somebody's PO$ idea anyway to give new car buyers warm fuzzies.