Ford car key replacement in Buffalo Grove, IL
Lost, broken or worn Ford key? Here is how Ford key and immobilizer systems work, what to try first, and what to have ready when you call Mr Locksmith in Buffalo Grove, IL.
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How Ford immobilizers work
Ford uses PATS — the Passive Anti-Theft System — which has been through several revisions. Many vehicles from around 2011 onward use an 80-bit encrypted transponder, and later F-150, Explorer, Escape and Edge models moved to Intelligent Access proximity keys with their own programming route.
No locksmith can honestly promise every Ford model and year. Whether a key can be made for yours — and where — depends on the year and system. Call (312) 478-6125 with the year, model and VIN and ask before anyone is dispatched. Mr Locksmith is an independent locksmith and is not affiliated with Ford.
Common Ford key types
- Transponder key
- Remote-head key
- Smart key (Intelligent Access)
All keys lost on a Ford
On many Fords, two working keys are needed to add a third by the on-board method. With no keys at all, the immobilizer has to be programmed with diagnostic equipment, and some models enforce a security waiting period during the process.
Worth knowing
If you have exactly one working Ford key, a spare now is meaningfully cheaper than an all-keys-lost call later. With two working keys, many Fords can add a third with far less equipment.
Before you call about a Ford key
- The year, model and trim of your Ford
- The VIN — visible through the windshield on the driver's side, or on the registration
- Whether any working key or fob still exists
- Where the vehicle is: driveway, street, parking garage level or commuter lot
When the technician arrives, expect to be asked for photo ID and proof of ownership — the registration, the title, or a lease or financing agreement in your name.
Car keys by make
Key types, immobilizer systems and all-keys-lost notes for each make. Call with the year and model to confirm what can be done for your vehicle.
Common questions
My Ford key fob battery died — how do I start the car?
Intelligent Access Fords have a backup position for a fob with a dead battery — commonly a slot in the center console or a cupholder, or a spot on the steering column on newer models; the owner's manual shows where. Place the fob there and press the start button. Bladed PATS keys start the car normally.
What does adding a spare Ford key involve?
With two working PATS keys, many Fords let the owner program a third using a documented ignition-cycle procedure in the owner's manual, with no tools. Intelligent Access fobs and vehicles with only one key generally need diagnostic equipment, and some models impose a timed security access wait.
Locked out or need a lock fixed? Call (312) 478-6125.
We answer 24 hours a day, every day. Tell us where you are and what happened, and ask about the price before a technician is sent.