Lost or need an extra key fob for your 1999 Ford Explorer? Programming a new key fob might seem daunting, but understanding the process can save you time and money. This guide provides clear instructions and options for 1999 Ford Explorer Key Fob Programming, ensuring you get back on the road quickly.
It’s important to distinguish between key fobs (for remote locking/unlocking) and transponder chip keys (for starting the ignition). While the original article mentions transponder chip keys, this article will focus primarily on key fob programming for your 1999 Ford Explorer and clarify the situations where you can program yourself and when professional help is required.
Understanding Key Programming for Your 1999 Ford Explorer
The method for programming your 1999 Ford Explorer key fob depends on whether you already have working key fobs or not. Unlike some newer vehicles, the 1999 Ford Explorer doesn’t allow for complete DIY programming in all scenarios. Let’s break down your options based on your current situation.
Scenario 1: Programming When You Have NO Working Key Fobs
Unfortunately, if you’ve lost all your key fobs for your 1999 Ford Explorer, you cannot program a new key fob yourself. This situation requires professional assistance because the vehicle’s computer needs to be reset and programmed to recognize new key fobs. Here are your two primary options:
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Contact a Mobile Automotive Locksmith (Preferred): This is often the most convenient and cost-effective solution. Mobile locksmiths specialize in automotive key programming and can come directly to your location. They possess the specialized tools and computers necessary to program a new key fob for your 1999 Ford Explorer. They can also cut a new physical key if needed.
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Visit a Ford Dealership: Your local Ford dealership can also program a new key fob. However, this option may be more expensive than using a locksmith, and you’ll need to arrange to have your vehicle towed to the dealership if it’s not drivable.
Scenario 2: Programming When You Have at Least ONE Working Key Fob
Even if you have a working key fob, programming a second key fob yourself for a 1999 Ford Explorer is generally not possible. Similar to the “no working key fob” scenario, adding a new key fob typically requires diagnostic equipment to communicate with your vehicle’s onboard computer. Your options remain similar:
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Automotive Locksmith: An automotive locksmith is still your best bet for programming a second key fob. They can efficiently program a new fob and ensure it works seamlessly with your 1999 Ford Explorer’s system.
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Ford Dealership: Again, the dealership can program a second key fob, but it might be a more time-consuming and costly route compared to a locksmith.
Scenario 3: Programming a THIRD Key Fob (with TWO Existing Working Fobs)
The original article mentions programming a third key, implying that if you already have two working keys (referring to ignition keys, not necessarily fobs), there might be a DIY procedure for a third key. However, for key fobs specifically for the 1999 Ford Explorer, there is NO DIY programming method available, regardless of how many working fobs or keys you possess.
The instructions provided in the original article for a “third key” are actually for programming a transponder chip key for ignition, not a key fob for remote functions. Transponder key programming is a separate process, and even that “third key” method is often unreliable for the 1999 Ford Explorer and may still require professional intervention.
Key Cutting is Essential
Remember, if you are getting a new key fob, you will likely also need a new physical key cut to insert into the fob (and potentially for the ignition if needed). Locksmiths and dealerships can both handle key cutting services. Ensure the key is cut accurately to match your 1999 Ford Explorer’s ignition and door locks.
In Conclusion
Programming a key fob for your 1999 Ford Explorer almost always requires professional assistance. Whether you’ve lost all your fobs or simply want to add an extra one, contacting a mobile automotive locksmith is typically the most convenient and efficient way to get your new key fob programmed and working correctly. While dealerships can also provide this service, locksmiths often offer quicker service and potentially lower costs. Avoid unreliable DIY methods and trust the expertise of professionals to handle your 1999 Ford Explorer key fob programming needs.
