Lenn

I remember reading on here that someone got a few keys cut for thier 97-03 truck that were not programmed and used one that WAS programmed to tape/adhere to the inside of the steering column so that the PATS system recognizes the key as present but the actual key being used is not programmed. This thereby eliminating the extreme cost of replacing a key if lost.

My question is this... When I worked for Volvo, I know that if you left the key in the ignition of any car 99+ for longer than xx minutes without starting it, it will "stop looking for they key" as its security immobilizer will override it thinking its an attempt at theft or a error. With our trucks, will perminantly having a key present cause the PATS system to "stop looking for they key signal"?

rtg143

It doesn't on mine. I've had it like that for 5 months now.

Lenn

Sweet... That's what I was hoping for.

I have only the key that came with the truck when I purchased it so the idea of spending $200-$300 for two new keys (when I almost lost this one the other day) makes me shudder. I just got a key cut from the local Ford dealer for $20 and they looked at me weird when I told them I didnt need it programmed. Hah.

westtnfx4

I can buy keys programmed at the Ford dealer for $75....

rtg143

I bought regular keys and they cut them at a key shop for $3 each. I have the only programmed key hidden away under the dash with the ring from the lock cylinder.

Lenn

Last question... How far down up the plastic part of the key is the transponder? I wanna put a key inside a holder under the truck somewhere but the key itself is too big. I want to cut it down so that I can adhere the transponder portion to the ring area and then use the actual metal key portion as a spare.

spyder98

Can you post pics when you do this please

rtg143

http://shoeguy.weebly.com/about-transponder-keys.html

streetassasin

I posted it on setxforum already but Ill go ahead and post it here too

here are the pics, it was already done to the truck, for the remote start, when I bought it but it looks like it would be easy to do. They unbolted the module from the steering column, taped the key to the module and zip tied it up out of the way under the dash, I had to take the lower front cover off the dash to get to it, if you still want to check it out Im off tomorrow and can show you in person


this is on an 06 btw but it should be the same

spyder98

can u post a pic of it in the car like where it goes if that makes sense