It can be frustrating to realize you need a key fob replacement, especially when you hear stories about hefty locksmith fees. Many assume getting a new key fob programmed is an expensive ordeal, and while calling out a locksmith for on-site service can cost a premium, there are more affordable solutions for your 2011 Ford Taurus Key Fob Replacement. In fact, reprogramming a key yourself or visiting a local shop can be surprisingly reasonable.
One common misconception is that you’re forced to pay exorbitant prices at a dealership. While dealerships certainly offer key fob services, independent locksmiths and even DIY methods can save you a significant amount of money. I initially anticipated spending upwards of $200 for a key reprogramming service, but was pleasantly surprised when a local locksmith charged me around $50 to erase old keys and program new master keys and fobs. Prices can vary, so it’s worth calling a few places. I encountered quotes as high as $190 from one locksmith over the phone before even explaining the full situation. Established shops, having already invested in the necessary programming equipment, often have more competitive pricing.
For those comfortable with a bit of DIY, tools like ForScan offer a cost-effective alternative. ForScan requires a Bluetooth ELM connector that plugs into your car’s OBDII port. This dongle then wirelessly connects to your smartphone or computer, allowing you to communicate with your vehicle’s systems. The initial investment is around $5 for the ForScan software and approximately $20 for a Bluetooth ELM dongle. While this is an upfront cost, it’s significantly less than many standalone OBDII scanners, which typically start around $80-$100 and may not offer the Ford-specific diagnostic capabilities of ForScan. Furthermore, owning such a tool can be invaluable for future car troubleshooting, potentially saving you diagnostic fees at repair shops, which can range from $40 to $100 per session. You can find these ELM connectors easily online, with options like the BAFX Products Bluetooth OBDII scanner available on platforms such as Amazon.
Now, if you have two original, working keys for your 2011 Ford Taurus, you might be able to program a new key fob yourself without any special tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on standard Ford procedures:
2011 Ford Taurus Key Fob Programming (DIY Method – Requires 2 Existing Keys)
Important! This procedure only works if you have two original keys that currently start your car. If you have fewer than two working original keys, or if you have cloned keys from a hardware store, this DIY method will not work. In such cases, you will need to visit a locksmith or dealership for programming. Ensure your new key is properly cut before starting this procedure.
- Insert an existing, working key into the ignition cylinder.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (just before starting the engine) and then back to OFF. The ignition should remain in the ON position for at least one second.
- Remove the first key and, within ten seconds, insert the second working key. Turn the ignition to ON and then back to OFF again, keeping it in the ON position for at least one second, but no more than ten seconds. Remove the key.
- Before twenty seconds elapse, insert your new, unprogrammed key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position. Leave it in the ON position for at least one second, then turn back to OFF.
- The security light on your dashboard will illuminate for approximately three seconds. This indicates that the new key has been successfully programmed to your 2011 Ford Taurus.
If you find yourself without two original keys, remember that hardware stores like Ace, Lowes, Walmart, and Home Depot cannot program these types of keys. You will need to seek assistance from a qualified automotive locksmith or your local Ford dealership to get your 2011 Ford Taurus key fob replacement programmed.
