Howdy!! I'm looking for guidance on what the cheapest way is to acquire another intelligent Access Key (IAK) for an used 2017 Explorer XLT (ignition is pushed to start) and have it programmed. When I purchased my Explorer recently (from a non Ford dealer) of course it only had one IAK (thus self programming of another acquired IAK is not an option, since it requires to already have two existing programmed IAK's......or does it???)
**I do apologize if the elements of my inquiry have already been covered in this thread previously (or in other threads), but since this thread spans many years, I would like to gather insight that possibly is more current.
I contacted my local Ford dealer for price quotes and this is what they responded with:
- The Intelligent Access Key by itself (for push to start) is $149.95.
- The Intelligent Access Key plus programming is $289.95
- Just the programming for an already purchased Intelligent Access Key is $140.00 – includes retrieving the keyless code (**We will not attempt the programming on an aftermarket key. This must be performed with a new key from Ford, in it’s original packaging)
Going with the dealer seems pricey, so here are my questions:
- Are there any methods of self programming (w/o dealer/locksmith programming software) an acquired IAK (used or new) when there is only one existing IAK, for a 2017 Explorer? (**obviously I'm looking for a solution that is probably not publicized, but you never know)
- Has anyone had success of purchasing an used IAK (from amazon, ebay, etc..) for their 2016 and newer Explorer (ignition is pushed to start) and either going to a Ford dealer or hiring a local locksmith to do the programming? If so, what did you pay for the IAK and for the programming? Any issues after the programming?
- With keeping "YGWYPF" in mind (You Get What You Pay For), is it just best to just go with the Ford dealer for the whole process? For any of you that have dealer insider knowledge, is there any verbiage I can state to the dealer where they would offer a lower price (i.e., I pay for the new IAK from the dealer for $149.95, but then they do the programming for $50...and not the quoted $140.00)?
Any insight to my inquires will be greatly appreciated!