Quote:
Originally Posted by Banditgrrr
My key looks like the one on the left. Since I only have 1 key, this means if I want a second key I have no other option but to get it from the dealer?
|
Many places can provide a programmed key cheaper than Ford - but I'd bet it will just be a clone of the one working original key and not have a unique code.
Meaning it would start the truck perfectly fine on its own, but couldn't be used as part of the pair required to make additional keys from in the future since the truck doesn't know the difference and it thinks they are both the exact same key.
If you pay for the real 2nd key from the dealer (or one that has a true unique working PATS code), you can program addition keys until you are blue in the face for free - at home - all by yourself (I believe the system can store up to 8 at any one time). I personally made myself four spares (in my driveway) using my pair of original keys from the dealer.
You can't do this with two cloned keys. So when you want/need a 3rd key, you would have to pay another $50 or so from the big box store.
Recap:
2nd Key from the Dealer = $130ish charge = One time. Programming additional keys = Free yourself from then on.
2nd Key from the Store = $50ish charge = Every time. Programming additional keys = Can't yourself.
People think the keys from the 'big box stores' are a better deal (since they are initially cheaper) - but in the long run, they really aren't at all.
It's apples to oranges.