Lost, stolen, or damaged your 1999 Ford Expedition key? Getting a replacement doesn’t have to be a hassle. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about replacing your 1999 Ford Expedition ignition key, ensuring you get back on the road quickly and affordably.
Understanding Your 1999 Ford Expedition Key
Your 1999 Ford Expedition uses a transponder key, also known as a chip key. This type of key has a microchip embedded in the plastic head. This chip communicates with your vehicle’s immobilizer system, a security feature designed to prevent theft. Simply cutting a new key blade won’t start your engine. The chip inside must be programmed to match your vehicle’s computer.
Alt text: Brand new aftermarket transponder key blank for a 1999 Ford Expedition, showing the plastic head and metal blade.
Replacement Options: Aftermarket vs. Dealership
You have a couple of primary options for replacing your 1999 Ford Expedition key:
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Automotive Locksmith: A local car locksmith is often the most convenient and cost-effective solution. Locksmiths specialize in vehicle keys and security systems. They have the equipment to both cut and program aftermarket transponder keys for your Ford Expedition. They can often come to your location, saving you the trouble of towing your vehicle.
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Ford Dealership: While dealerships can also replace your key, they are typically more expensive and may be less willing to program an aftermarket key. Dealerships generally prefer to use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts.
Key Cutting and Programming: Essential Steps
Regardless of where you get your replacement key, both cutting and programming are mandatory:
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Key Cutting: The metal blade of the key must be precisely cut to match your vehicle’s ignition cylinder. This mechanical cutting allows the key to physically turn in the lock and ignition.
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Key Programming: This is the crucial step for transponder keys. The microchip inside the key must be electronically programmed to communicate with your Ford Expedition’s immobilizer system. This programming step pairs the key to your vehicle, allowing it to start the engine.
Important Note: Cutting the key alone will not allow you to start your 1999 Ford Expedition. Programming is absolutely necessary due to the transponder chip.
Finding the Right Key Blank
When sourcing a replacement key blank, ensure it’s compatible with your 1999 Ford Expedition. The H72-PT key blank is a common and correct aftermarket replacement. You might see it listed under various manufacturer part numbers, including:
- Strattec: 597602, 598333, 690212, 599490, 599104, 599182, 597603
- Ilco: H72PT, H72FPT, H72LJPT, H72MPT
- Bianchi: BH72-PT
- Hata: H72HPT, H72MPHT
- A-1: S72
- JMA: TP02FO15DP
- OEM: 011R0221
These part numbers are often interchangeable and refer to the same type of key blank suitable for your vehicle.
Vehicle Compatibility
This key blank (H72-PT or equivalent) is compatible with a range of Ford and Lincoln-Mercury vehicles from the late 1990s and early 2000s, including:
- Ford Crown Victoria (1998-2002)
- Ford Excursion (2000-2005)
- Ford Expedition (1997-2002)
- Ford Explorer (1998-2000)
- Ford F150/F250 (1999-2003)
- Ford F150/F250 Heritage (2004)
- Ford Mustang (1996-2004)
- Ford Ranger (1999-2000)
- Ford Taurus (1996-1999)
- Ford Windstar (1999-2000)
- Lincoln Continental (1998-2002)
- Lincoln Navigator (1997-2002)
- Lincoln Town Car (1998-2002)
- Mercury Grand Marquis (1998-2002)
- Mercury Mountaineer (1998-2000)
- Mercury Sable (1996-1999)
- Mazda B-Series Pickup (1999-2000)
What’s Included When You Purchase a Key Blank
Typically, purchasing a key blank will include:
- One aftermarket ignition key blank with a transponder chip.
Remember, this is just the blank key. You will need to get it cut and programmed by a professional locksmith to function with your 1999 Ford Expedition.
Guarantee and Warranty
Reputable suppliers often offer a satisfaction guarantee and warranty on key blanks, providing peace of mind with your purchase.
In conclusion, replacing your 1999 Ford Expedition key requires a transponder key blank, professional key cutting, and programming. Contact a local automotive locksmith for the most efficient and affordable service to get your new key working.
