Ford keys replacement
Here in Minneapolis-St Paul, it’s easy to see why Ford is such a popular car. From the F-150 to the Escape to the Ecosport, these cars are dependable, a pleasure to drive, and reliable in all types of weather.
So, if you’ve lost your keys or you’re having trouble with your fob, we can bet that you’re probably looking for fast, affordable Ford key replacement to get you back behind the wheel, ASAP. Our team at Reliable Locksmith is Hennepin and Ramsey counties’ go-to for Ford owners in need of help with their keys. Here are a few of the most common questions we get from our customers!
Can I order a Ford key replacement online?
There are many websites dedicated to selling after market or secondhand replacement keys and fobs. And, these replacements are often much more affordable than going directly to a Ford dealership. But, there are some things to keep in mind:
- You want to make sure that you buy the right key model for your car. Blank car keys are labeled with a series of numbers and letters to indicate what make, model and year they are compatible with. So, you’ll need to find out which key model corresponds to your car. It’s also important to purchase a key or fob from a reliable source! It’s not uncommon for customers to purchase a key online that claimed to be compatible with their Ford only to have it be rejected by their car’s operating system.
- Manual keys will be sent to you with a blank blade. Most key replacement sellers won’t cut a manual key before sending it to you; that will need to be done by a local auto locksmith or dealership. Here at Reliable Locksmith, we have the equipment to cut traditional and high security Ford keys.
- You may also need to program the new key or fob to your car. In addition to key cutting, you’ll also likely need a professional to oversee key programming. This is the process by which the new key is introduced to your car’s ignition or operating system, and it requires the use of a professional-grade programming machine.
If you want to make the process simpler, call your local auto locksmith before buying a replacement online. We’ll take care of everything from ordering the right key, to cutting it, to programming. We may even already have the blank key or fob you need in our inventory to make the process faster.
What Ford key model do I need?
If you do decide to order your Ford key replacement online, here are a few of the most common models and the cars they’re compatible with:
- Mechanical key: Ford 321202 or 321207. This classic key is suitable for most Ford models before the mid-1990s, including the Ford Mustang, the Pinto, the Ranger, the Torino and the Thunderbird.
- Transponder key: TPX-Series. If your original car key features a metal blade and a plastic head (without buttons), you likely have a transponder key. This replacement model is compatible with a range of Ford models that use the TPX chip, including the 2011 Ford Fiesta, 2012 Ford Focus and 2012-2013 Ford Escape
- OEM 3-Button Flip Key: 164-R8130. For many Ford models made between 2015 and 2022, the 164-R8130 can work as a compatible replacement for a fob or flip key. Compatibility includes the 2021-2022 Ford Bronco, 2016-2022 Ford Explorer, 2015-2022 F150 and more.
One way to be sure that you are ordering the correct key replacement for your Ford is to look at the FCC ID number found on your current remote or in the owner’s manual.
What is the difference between replacing a manual key, transponder key, and fob?
In addition to having to order different key models for different Ford cars, getting them ready for use on your car will require a specific process:
- Manual. Manual Ford key replacement will be the most straightforward and, in most cases, affordable. Manual car key cutting can be done with the VIN number and won’t require any special programming.
- Transponder. During the late 90s and early 2000s, Ford complied with contemporary security measures by implementing transponder chip keys. These types of keys have a code, either static or rolling, that communicates with the ignition. As such, replacement of these keys includes cloning the code onto the chip in the new transponder key. Most auto locksmiths have the equipment on hand to clone Ford transponder keys.
- Fob or flip key. As security features advanced in the auto industry, replacing fobs and flip keys has become more complex. In order to replace one of these kinds of keys, your auto locksmith will need to access your car’s operating system in order to introduce a new set of keys. This process is called key reprogramming and requires a specialized machine as well as the right software to work with certain car models.
Can I get extra keys?
Once you’ve lost your keys once, you don’t want to have to go through the hassle of replacing them a second time! So, you may be wondering how to get a spare.
As you probably guessed, there’s no limit on the amount of spare keys you can have for a Ford that uses a mechanical key. But, that’s not the case for modern Ford models. The standard for cars that use fobs or flips keys is two, but some Ford models allow up to 4 keys on a single operating system. Ask our team at Reliable Locksmith about cutting and reprogramming spares.
What should I do if I think my keys were stolen?
Maybe your purse was stolen or you lost your keys in a public place and you’re worried about someone having access to your car. There are a couple of options here, depending on your Ford make and model:
- Rekeying. If your car uses a mechanical key or transponder key, a good option would be rekeying. In this scenario, your auto locksmith can recalibrate the lock cylinder and the ignition cylinder to interact with a new set of keys, rendering the old ones ineffective.
- Retirement of fobs. In modern Ford cars, it’s possible to reprogram the operating system to work with a completely new set of keys. This will retire the old set so that you don’t have to worry about someone accessing your car.
What is the benefit of calling an auto locksmith rather than the dealership or mechanic?
As a car owner, there are a few different professionals you can call for help with Ford key replacement. So, why opt for an auto locksmith? Here are a few reasons:
- We’re mobile. Reliable Locksmith can travel to wherever you are in Minneapolis-St Paul to deliver your new set of keys. That is much more appealing than having your car towed to the mechanic or going out of your way to a dealership.
- Our services tend to be more affordable. Many of our customers are surprised to see how much they can save on their key replacement with an auto locksmith.
- We work 24/7. Your local Ford dealership mechanic has set hours, but we’re available whenever you need us!
When you’re ready for Ford key replacement in Minneapolis-St Paul and surrounding areas, call Reliable Locksmith!
Our Services
We provide a comprehensive range of locksmith services in Minneapolis. Serving Hennepin County, we can help you combat broken locks, install new locks, access homes and business premises when you’re locked out, and even provide replacement car keys on the spot.
We care for every one of our clients, and we’ll always do what we can to put you at ease. We’re a friendly team and enjoy our work – nothing makes us happier than solving your problems.
Plus, we provide cost-effective quality solutions. Our low prices will certainly be a pleasant surprise.