2002 Ford Ranger - key replacement

[nakedput]

Hi all,

I lost my key the other day, went to the dealer to get a replacement one (as I did not have an extra key kicking around) and they advised me that it will cost around $300 for a new key. That does not even account for towing charges as they physically need the vehicle at the dealership. The key allegedly is chipped to integrate with the PATS (anti theft) system, and it is imperative I get a chipped key.

The car is worth a grand and I just purchased brand tires for the vehicle. This cannot be serious...there has to be a way around this. can anyone please advise? Is the dealer legit, or is he ripping me off?

 

[RangerX]

I don't know anything about the system, but looking at previous threads, it seems like they will have to reprogram the system if you don't have the two original keys in your possession: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=254886&highlight=Pats

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=232915&highlight=Pats

 

[swshawaii]

Locks and Security (Page 112)
http://www.fordservicecontent.com/Ford_Content/catalog/owner_guides/02ranog4e.pdf

If your keys are lost or stolen you will need to do the following:

• Use your spare key to start the vehicle, or
• Have your vehicle towed to a dealership or a locksmith. The key codes
will need to be erased from your vehicle and new key codes will need
to be re-coded.

Replacing coded keys can be very costly and you may want to store an
extra programmed key away from the vehicle in a safe place to prevent
an unforeseen inconvenience.
The correct coded key must be used for your vehicle. The use of the
wrong type of coded key may lead to a “no start” condition.
If an unprogrammed key is used in the ignition it will cause a “no
start” condition.

Everything you wanted to know about PATS
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=234975

 

[colintrax]

You do need a chipped key. Hate it for ya, but it's pretty common with all vehicles newer than 2000. Regardless of brand.

There's a software called forscan, I believe you can program a PATS key with it. I'd highly suggest you do your own research on forscan before downloading it and buying a key off eBay though

 

[Mike65]

Try calling a locksmith & see if you can purchase the key from them & have them come to your house & make the key & program it for you.

 

[SoHK_alumni]

An option would be to find a PCM with a mated key, either on-line or at a breakers yard. If found at a yard, you could pull the complete set of locks from the vehicle and install in yours.

Or, the dealer or a good lock smith should be able to get the key code and cut keys to match your locks, then take the mated key for the "new" PCM, pop the PATS transceiver from around the key barrel and zip tie the key the PCM knows inside the transceiver and tuck the transceiver/key up in the steering column.