Are you tired of your bulky, standard key fob for your 2005 Ford Focus? Perhaps it’s broken, or maybe you just want a more modern and convenient design. Upgrading to a flip key is a fantastic solution that not only looks sleeker but also protects your key blade from wear and tear. This guide will walk you through the process of converting your existing 2005 Ford Focus Key Fob to a stylish flip key, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of your car keys. This conversion is a DIY-friendly project that can save you money and give your old key a new lease on life.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need for a smooth conversion. You will require the following items:
- x1 Programmed Ford Key with Removable Immobilizer (RFID): This is your original key that currently works with your 2005 Ford Focus.
- x1 Programmed Key Fob: This is the remote portion of your existing key, programmed to your vehicle for remote locking and unlocking.
- x1 Flip Key Shell for Ford Focus: Purchase a compatible flip key shell online. A quick search on eBay for “ford focus flip key” should yield numerous affordable options, typically around $10. Ensure it’s designed for Ford Focus models and includes the necessary components.
- x1 Small Screwdriver Set: A precision screwdriver set is essential for handling the small screws and components involved in this process.
Step 2: Extract the Immobilizer (RFID) Chip
The immobilizer (RFID) chip is crucial for your car to start. It’s a small component in your original key that communicates with your vehicle’s security system. Handle it with extreme care.
Warning: Be extremely careful during this step. The immobilizer chip is fragile and essential. Do not break or lose it, or your car will not start.
Use a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry open the area around the immobilizer chip in your original key. This area is usually slightly recessed and may be outlined or have a visible seam.
Once you have gently pried the casing open, carefully pull out the immobilizer chip. It should be a small, usually black or glass-like component.
Place the immobilizer chip in a safe place immediately to prevent loss or damage.
Step 3: Get the New Key Blade Cut
The flip key shell will come with a blank key blade. You need to get this blade cut to match your original Ford Focus key.
Visit a locksmith or a key cutting service. Some places, like Walmart, may offer key cutting services for free. Simply present your original Ford Focus key and the blank flip key blade, and ask them to cut the new blade to match.
Step 4: Disassemble the Original Key Fob
Now, you need to open your original Ford Focus key fob to extract the internal circuit board.
Gently pry apart the two halves of your key fob. The seam is usually located near the keyring area. A small flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail can be used to carefully separate the pieces.
Once open, carefully remove the circuit board from the rubber button pad. Set aside the rubber pad and prepare to insert the circuit board into the new flip key shell’s rubber pad.
Step 5: Disassemble the Flip Key Shell
The flip key shell needs to be opened to install the components. Typically, there are small screws holding the two halves of the shell together.
Locate and remove the screws on the flip key shell. Once the screws are removed, the shell will open, and the key blade will likely spring out. Don’t worry if the components come apart; the next steps will guide you through reassembly.
Step 6: Assemble the Flip Key with Components
Now it’s time to put everything together in the flip key shell.
This is where you’ll insert the immobilizer chip, the circuit board from your original key fob, and the battery. Some flip key shells may require a small washer to ensure proper battery contact.
Reason for Washer: As noted, sometimes the battery in the flip key shell might not make consistent contact with the circuit board. A small, thin washer placed under the battery can elevate it slightly, ensuring a reliable connection for button functionality.
Place the immobilizer (RFID) chip into its designated slot in the flip key shell. If needed, place a small washer as shown to improve battery contact. Then, install the battery in its compartment.
Step 7: Insert the Circuit Board and Rubber Button Pad
Take the circuit board from your original key fob and place it into the rubber button pad that came with the flip key shell. Then, insert this assembly into the flip key shell housing.
Step 8: Reassemble the Flip Key Shell
Putting the flip key shell back together involves a spring mechanism for the key blade.
Locate the spring and notice that one end is designed to protrude outwards. Insert this end into the designated slot in the flip key shell. Refer to the image for step six, which shows the spring placement with a red arrow.
Next, insert the push button that releases the key blade. It should align with grooves in the shell and only fit in one orientation.
Now, with the key blade folded and held down, position the push button on top of the spring. Rotate the key blade one full turn counter-clockwise to tension the spring mechanism.
While holding the key blade in place, carefully align and attach the top half of the flip key shell. Secure the shell halves together using the screws you removed in step five.
Finally, apply the Ford logo sticker (usually included with the flip key shell) over the center screw for a finished look.
Final Check
Test all the buttons on your new flip key to ensure they function correctly for locking, unlocking, and any other remote functions your original fob had. Also, test the key in your 2005 Ford Focus ignition to ensure the car starts.
If your car fails to start, immediately disassemble the flip key and re-install the immobilizer (RFID) chip back into your original key. Review step two to ensure the RFID chip is correctly placed in the flip key.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully upgraded your standard 2005 Ford Focus key fob to a modern flip key. While slightly bulkier than some aftermarket options, this DIY conversion provides an excellent and cost-effective way to improve your key’s functionality and style. Enjoy the convenience and updated look of your new flip key!
