2006 PATS Key

[shamski]

Wanting to get a third PATS key for the Explorer Limited that I have.
Rather than dealer prices was looking on Ebay and such, but it seems vendors have many different perceptions on the keys -- some list them as Explorer specific for specific model year ranges, others say that the PATS key covers many different models through various years. Who's right?

I know the year is important as I believe there are different types of PATS keys out there and you need the right type for the implementation you have in your vehicle.

Any insight appreciated as to making sure I get the right one - also living in Canada so if you know of anyone that will ship the keys to Canada for a decent price let me know.

Thanks in advance,
shamski

 

[A Wise Guy]

As with many things some have better luck than others. I had an ebay key for my '98 X and on extremely hot days the heat would change the value of the chip and not let the truck start. I now stick with Ford key blanks, Home Depot cuts them and since I have two sets I program them myself.

Do you have your owner's manual? If so the programming instructions are in there.

 

[ncranchero]

Any brand other than OEM Ford or Strattec "can" cause serious PATS problems. Be sure your key is one or the other of those two to be safe.

 

[aaronajb1981]

I dont think the key is the expensive part. its what they charge you in labor for 2 minutes of work.

If you have 2 OEM keys (they must be OEM and not a copy), programming is as simple as putting your first oem key in and turn it to the on (dont start) wait until the red light on the dash goes out. Turn off. put second oem key in and do the same. Turn off. Take your new and do the same. If the red light is not blinking and is solid like the oem ones its programmed.

However if they are not oem then they will need to use a programmer to program them. this is where it gets expensive. YOu can also look into a locksmith. they can do all of this for you too. even if the programmer is needed. it may be cheaper than the dealer

 

[sandy_dr]

I had 2 original keys but no remote fob, so purchased one on ebay which was OEM Ford http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/250531545262. Got a local guy to cut it and programmed it myself (v.easy). Key works perfectly, the only problem with the design is that is it very easy to set of the panic button when extending the key.

 

[ncranchero]

I dont think the key is the expensive part. its what they charge you in labor for 2 minutes of work.

If you have 2 OEM keys (they must be OEM and not a copy), programming is as simple as putting your first oem key in and turn it to the on (dont start) wait until the red light on the dash goes out. Turn off. put second oem key in and do the same. Turn off. Take your new and do the same. If the red light is not blinking and is solid like the oem ones its programmed.

However if they are not oem then they will need to use a programmer to program them. this is where it gets expensive. YOu can also look into a locksmith. they can do all of this for you too. even if the programmer is needed. it may be cheaper than the dealer

Only use FORD script or Strattec key blanks. Strattec's can be had on eBay for $17.00+/-. Strattec makes the Ford keys. Local dealer here charges $41.50 to program a pair.

Two minutes work is about right but you won't be in and out in that. Once the programmer is attached to the OBD II port you have to wait 30 minutes before programming can begin.