Will not start after drilling out the ignition

2004 FORD F-150
180,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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DEBORAH JO
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Okay, I apologize in advance if this turns into a book, but my only key was lost, and you guessed it, I had to drill out my ignition cylinder. However, I had no clue about the PATS system. Bought a scan tool kit, but it won’t program my keys that came with it. am I doing something wrong or is there a secret to programming the new keys without an original? I can’t afford to go any other route at this time (like towing my truck to a dealership and having them do it and definitely cannot afford a locksmith seems the closest one is like a million miles away from BFE where I happen to live) . Please help! Is there a step by step for dummies on how to do this? I did the 15-minute thing then off then back to run for another 15 and so on. I don’t know what else to do, but it’s my only vehicle and I really need it. I’m seriously desperate!
Jun 2, 2022 at 10:09 AM
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STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,319 POSTS
There is no DIY method to program new transponder keys without either a key programmer or a factory level scan tool and the add a key method only works if you have other programmed keys to use while doing the programming, however as you drilled out the OE key cylinder that method will no longer work even if you had a good key as you cannot rotate the cylinder with a known key.
The only real options are the dealer or a locksmith, sorry.

Jun 2, 2022 at 10:53 AM
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