Hi everyone. First post and a quick question. I purchased a new (for me) 2016 F150 Lariet privately. The owner, while he seemed like a good guy, can't find one of his keys. I doubt he's trying to scam me (we met at the dealer to have his Lien removed and I have his address and even old license plate) but feel a bit weird having a key out there unaccounted for, especially since I park my truck outside.

It is my understanding that if I buy a replacement key (I'd like to have a spare key regardless) I can reprogram the new key as per Ford's instructions by putting it in the centre console and going through a series of steps.(https://owner.ford.com/how-tos/vehic...ccess-key.html)

As long as I have my existing key in the vehicle it will reprogram the new key while keeping my access with my existing key. It will also prevent the "lost" key from starting the vehicle, correct? I understand the spare physical key could still open the truck but this would prevent it from being driven, correct? Thanks for looking.

 

You need 2 keys to program another, buy the key online and bring it to a dealer or locksmith.

 

I see. So my 1 existing key isn't going to cut it. Can the dealer or locksmith change the code so that the other key that's still "out there" is inactive?

 

Unsure about that but I would guess the dealer is a better option as you can only have 3 keys programmed max from memory so I would guess they can remove a key. Someone can chime in with more experience.

 

As noted, you cannot add a key without two keys without going to a locksmith or the dealer. This is noted in the manual, which is available online at owner.ford.com.

The dealer would program a "third" key and remove the missing key, so that only two keys could start the vehicle.

A locksmith could do the same - but beware that some merely CLONE the key you give them, so now you have two copies of one key, and those two keys cannot be used to program future keys. Make sure the locksmith has the technology to both remove the missing key and program a new key as a unique key.

I believe the max number of keys is 8.

 

when a dealer/locksmith programs a new key or more any old keys will automatically be deleted... Of course any old key will still key open your door or spare tire locks but it will not start the truck !!
after @ least 2 keys are programed you can now make your own "my keys"....

 

I currently have 4 keys. There are mine, my wife's, a spare kept in the house for emergencies, a spare hidden in our travel trailer for emergencies when travelling.

 

Both dealer and locksmith cost the same for the key or there is some difference ?

 

Cost the same? How would we know the prices that a locksmith you find, or your local dealer, would charge? You need to price it yourself.

 

This is like everything else in the world. You have to shop around for price. But, I find it had to believe that ANYONE is as high as the dealer.