My Duplicate Key didn't work!

[m435tro]

I bought a blank key for my 1998 Ford Explorer from Ebay.com couple of weeks ago. On Sunday I had a chance to go to Home Depot trying to make a duplicate for my key. Tried on my X and it didn't work. Any idea why? I read somewhere that to have key duplication I need to get blank key from Ford dealer. Is that true?
Thanks for the answers guys..!

 

[RiverRat]

So the key wasn't cut right and doesn't turn the lock cylinders? You don't need a blank from ford, any will do.

Or are you talking about the PATS key? As in it won't start?

 

[m435tro]

It does turn the cylinders but it won't start the engine.

 

[Howard]

Have you got the PATS system key. You can tell by looking at the original key for signs of the chip. The biggest give away is that the hole is off centre. If you have the PATS system then you need to program the key for it to work. To do it your self search for PATS key programming and follow the instructions.

 

[m435tro]

I read on Ford 150 Forum I need to have 2 orginal (master?) keys. And if I only have one key, I have to take it to the dealer to get it programmed. You guys now if that mean I just have to bring my new duplicate key to the dealer?

 

[Howard]

Some people on here have done it using the original key twice but when I got my x and only had one key I took it to the dealer and they programmed it for me. I don't see why you can't get them to program your spare key. I got two more keys so that I always have two to do another one myself if I break/loose one.

 

[dougmc]

howard,

what did it cost for you to get your spare PATS keys from a dealer? i have been putting it off since i got my x (i've only got one key right now) and heard that it was close to 30 bucks for one. is this right?

 

[Howard]

It cost me £30 per key but I don't think that will help you. Just give your local dealer a call and ask.

 

[dougmc]

thanks howard....didn't realize you were in the UK. 30 units of some kind of money sounds about like what i heard though