I bought uncut 2 keys off ebay for spares for my '99 F-150, had them cut at the hardware store.

I watched several Youtube videos and attempted to do the programming.

I followed the procedure exactly, but neither replacement key took the programming.

What's worse, one of my original keys would lose it's programming. However, I was able

to restore it, using the programming procedure.

At this point I'm not sure which way I can go with this DIY key programming.

Anyone have experience with this?

 

Do you have two keys already that are programmed? And how many keys are trying to have total?

 

I have two original keys that are programmed, and two blank programmable keys I bought.

 

OK, sounds good. Can you explain the method you used?

Do you by chance have ForScan? I'm pretty sure the PC version will program PATS keys.

 

I discovered that I had overlooked the 'fine print', and did not notice that the blank I

ended up buying was NOT compatible with keys that have an "S" stamped on the shank.

My keys have the S. $9.30 down the drain. I don't feel bad, i just finished a 3

day stay in Las Vegas visiting relatives, and didn't stick any money in the slots!

I found the right blanks on ebay....we'll try this again.

 

At least you can use them to unlock your doors.

 

The keys contain a key code which is used to verify an authorized key is being used to start the engine.
OEM keys contain a key code which can't be changed.
New key blanks are available that have key codes which can't be changed.
Also, new key blanks are available that allow a key code to be installed into it and are considered "clone" keys because the code is copied from another key.
A system that requires 2 keys to program more requires 2 different key codes - a key and it's clone will not work.
"Programming" is just reading the key code and storing it in PATS non-volatile memory as an authorized key code.
The PATS Control Module compares the ignition key code to the key codes stored in non-volatile memory to authorize engine starting.
If I remember correctly, when adding key codes into the authorized key code list all key codes must be entered at the same time. If you have 3 key codes in the list and want to add a 4th you can't just add the 4th. You have to enable the "add key codes" function with keys 1 & 2, then add the 3rd, 4th, 5th, ....

 

Get ...the....OEM....key.

Not a Chinese clone.

Some Chinese keys have failed to program in PATS, although they might program fine as a clone.

Make sure both keys are original to Pat's, and not clone.

I have a spare oem in package if interested. I'll sell it for less than eBay.... I was going to program it when wanted remote start, but wife found extra key missing for 3 yrs in her camera case.

 

MBB, I would be interested in the spare key if the OP doesn't need it

I only have 1 for my truck and Ford here in the UK said they can't program me a new one so I have grabbed the ForScan software ready for when I get something to try

 

get a hide a key box and hide the a key on the exterior of your truck in case you lock yourself out. you could use atleast one of those keys for that.