Programming your key fob for a 2008 Ford Taurus can be a straightforward process, potentially saving you a trip to the dealership. This guide provides clear, easy-to-follow instructions to program your keyless entry remote yourself. Please note that this procedure is specifically for programming the remote control functions of your key fob, such as locking and unlocking doors, and remote start if equipped.
Step-by-Step Programming Instructions
Before you begin, ensure you have your 2008 Ford Taurus and the key fob you wish to program. Follow these steps carefully:
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Prepare Your Vehicle: Start by closing all the doors of your Ford Taurus. Then, open only the driver’s side door. It’s crucial to press the UNLOCK button located on the driver’s side door panel and leave the door open throughout the initial steps. Insert your key into the ignition.
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Enter Programming Mode: This is the most crucial step. You need to quickly turn the ignition key from the OFF position to the RUN position eight times within a ten-second timeframe. Make sure the eighth turn ends in the RUN position. If you perform this step correctly, the door locks will cycle (lock then unlock) automatically. This lock cycling is your confirmation that the vehicle has successfully entered programming mode and is ready to learn the new key fob.
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Program the First Key Fob: Within 20 seconds of the door locks cycling, take your first keyless remote (the one you want to program) and press any button on it. Again, the door locks should cycle once to confirm that the signal from this key fob has been received and programmed by the car’s system.
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Program Additional Key Fobs (Optional): If you have a second key fob that you also wish to program, you can do so at this stage. Within 20 seconds after programming the first key fob, press any button on the second keyless remote. The door locks will cycle once more to confirm the programming of the second remote. You can repeat this step for up to four key fobs in total.
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Exit Programming Mode: Once you have programmed all the key fobs you need, turn the ignition key to the OFF position. As you turn the ignition off, the door locks will cycle one last time. This final lock cycle indicates that the system has exited the programming mode, and your newly programmed key fobs should now be fully functional for remote locking, unlocking, and other keyless entry functions.
Programming the Key Portion – Important Note
The above procedure only programs the remote functions of your key fob. Programming the transponder chip inside the key, which is necessary to start the engine, is a different process.
Key Programming Requirements:
- Two Working Keys Required: If you already have two functioning keys for your 2008 Ford Taurus, you can program additional keys yourself using an onboard procedure.
- One or No Working Keys: If you have only one working key or have lost all your keys, you will need professional assistance. A qualified locksmith or a Ford dealership will be required to program a new key for you. They have specialized diagnostic equipment that can bypass the security measures and program new keys even without an existing working key.
For Key Programming with Two Existing Keys:
If you have two existing, working keys and want to program an additional key to start your 2008 Ford Taurus, follow these steps:
- Insert First Working Key: Insert one of your existing, working keys into the ignition cylinder.
- Cycle Ignition with First Key: Turn the ignition cylinder to the ON (RUN) position and then back to the OFF position.
- Insert Second Working Key: Remove the first working key. Within five seconds, insert your second working key into the ignition. Turn it to the ON (RUN) position and then back to OFF.
- Insert New Key: Remove the second working key. Now, within ten seconds, insert the new, unprogrammed key into the ignition cylinder. Turn it to the ON (RUN) position and leave it in the RUN position for at least one second. Then, turn it back to the OFF position.
- Verify Programming: Wait and observe the security light on your dashboard. The security light should illuminate for approximately three seconds. This light indicates that the new key has been successfully programmed to start your 2008 Ford Taurus.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Timing is Crucial: The timing in the ignition cycling and button pressing steps is critical. If the locks do not cycle to confirm programming mode, you may need to repeat the procedure, paying close attention to the timing.
- Door Ajar: Ensure the driver’s door is open as instructed and that all other doors are securely closed.
- Battery Condition: Make sure the batteries in your key fobs are in good condition. A weak battery can sometimes prevent successful programming.
- System Issues: If you consistently fail to program your key fob, there might be an underlying issue with your vehicle’s remote entry system. In such cases, consulting a professional mechanic or your Ford dealer is advisable.
By following these detailed steps, you should be able to program your 2008 Ford Taurus key fob and enjoy the convenience of keyless entry. Remember to consult a locksmith or dealership if you encounter issues or need to program the key portion without two working keys.
