I have a 2005 ford expy limited , I wanted to get a remote starter on my truck .I went to a shop and they told me because of the Pats key they would have to leave a key somewhere hidden behind dash or disconnect the pats reader to do this. Does anyone know if there is anyway else to do this ?I live in NYC and don't feel safe leaving a key in the truck , hidden or not. Also when i purchased the truck they only had 1 key , is it true to get a spare pats key only the dealer can program it and it is costly? Thanks for all the help and Happy Holidays to all

 

I have a 2000 Exp and I think the keys are the same. Years ago I had a cheap "Bull Dog" remote starter. For this system I had a key under the dash. THAT STARTER WAS A PIECE OF CRAP and I got rid of it (I'm glad to share details if anyone wants). Next I bought a Shelby brand 2-way remote starter and it does NOT need a key under the dash. When you first install it, the system reads the code from your key and stores it internally. This remote starter has been awsome!

...so I guess it depends which system you get...

 

You can have them cut the key because all they really need is the head of the key. That way if someone were to find the key they could not take your truck.

Other than that, ask your installer why he isn't using a TBXKEY?
Directed Electronics TBXKEY XpressKit Universal Transponder Bypass Kit with XKeyPort & D2D (Replaces 556U)
With one of these you do not need an extra key.

If you only have one key you can only get a second key by going to the dealer. Once you have two keys you can program additional ones yourself.

 

I just had the Viper 5901 installed in my 03 and did not need to install a key.

 

When I had the hornet two way remote start/security system I also had to install a hidden key in the truck. The installer should do a good job of hiding the key deep underneath the dash. If you still have doubts I would do as alloro says and cut the key once the head has been programed.

auburnmiz is the 5901 one of the models that can be controlled through a IPhone or ITouch? I think it's nice to be able start and lock/unlock your car with your cell phone.

 

Get the PATS bypass. It's worth it. I had the guys do the 'hide a key' trick, and my truck wouldn't start any time it got cold. They removed the key installed the bypass, and I've never had a problem since. Plus then you don't have to have an extra key made, or worry about having a free key inside your truck for anyone to take and make off with your truck.

 

leaving a key in the dash is by-passing that part of the security system you then could start you truck with just a regular metal key it's worth the money to get a better starter

 

The 5901 is the 2-way unit that comes with a pager that tells you when the motor is running or if the alarm is set off. It starts the car from a mile away and lets you know it is running. I believe this can be programmed with iphone too.

 

auburnmiz - or anyone else who can answer. I looked at getting the viper 5901 on my 06 expy today and they said they would have to hide a key (Best Buy). also $400 installed but $260 extra seemed steep. I did tell them I wanted window pop also for the back which honestly I would probably never use - if we open the back - we open the whole tailgate. I do not want factory remote start because I wanted vehicle security also and 2-way would be great. (03 was broken into). Don't want the iphone one because I get spotty reception with my iphone and am just riding out the contract. I know thieves can get what they want - but any upper hand I can get is good with me. Thanks, Mike. Also I am not set on Viper - we just have a shortage of reputable alarm installers around here.

 

The LAST place I would ever go for mobile electronics is best buy. Being in Fl you have to have SEVERAL top rated car audio shops around, look into them. They will have better products and their installers will be a lot better, and more knowledgeable about the product since that is all they do.

 

I agree with minitrk. I would not go to best buy. There are always hidden charges and I know people who had major problems with installs there. I went to a local audio installer (Auto Image) and the system was installed for $550 without an extra key being needed to be installed in the truck. Very happy with the install and the system in general.

 

That is so yesterday's technology and a very good warning sign of amateur installers. For the $100 that it can cost to get an extra key from a dealer, they could install the bypass module that I posted the link to up in post #3 above for under $20.

 

I bought mt 2002 xlt used and it has a remote start system. Not sure which one. You hit the lock button on the key fob twice and the engine starts in ten seconds. The doors remain locked. You can unlock the door or doors manually or with the fob. The key must be inserted into the ignition switch and the switch must be rotated to the on position. If you attempt to operate any switches or pedals without the key in the on position then the engine shuts off. I like the way this system works. I usually use it to mess with people in parking lots.