To add some to the above. Using either method is going to require a locksmith or dealer with a scan tool that has security access for Fords to program in the replacement keys. This is because there is no way to program in new keys as a DIYer without having 2 keys that already work in the vehicle. With replacing the ignition cylinder you add in another piece that would need to be installed and now you still need to change the trunk and door locks so the new keys work in them.
By using a smith or dealer they can use the VIN number and contact Ford to get the key code to make a new key, or they could use a tool like a Lishi pick, to read the code from the cylinder and cut the new keys, then program them. Using the scan tool they will erase the old keys from the PATS system, then program in the new ones. Now if you find the old keys later they will not work unless you use the two new keys to add them to the system. However because the new keys will have the same bitting as the originals all the locks will work with them.
One thing to note is that if you have the external keypads for the locks you may need to have those reprogrammed when the keys are erased, it depends on which type you have, there were factory units that are hard wired into the system while there are also dealer installed RF versions that work more like a keyless remote and are not wired into the system but are installed on the doors, they are easy to tell apart, the OE ones are thin and only extend out of the vehicles body by less than an eighth of an inch. The dealer installed ones stick out far more, about one half an inch. These are the ones that may require syncing if the keys are erased. I've had some that were fine and other that needed to be reset. That process is the same as a keyless remote and is in the owners manual or the same ones who do the keys should test them just to be sure.
Thursday, August 12th, 2021 AT 2:44 PM
