Are you tired of that bulky, combined key and fob for your 2017 Ford F150? Many F150 owners, especially those with XLT and lower trims, find the factory key fob cumbersome and prone to accidental damage. If you’ve ever worried about kneeing your key fob in the ignition, potentially leading to a costly repair, you’re not alone. This guide offers a practical solution: replacing your complex key fob with a simpler, more durable “dumb” key.
Why Replace Your 2017 F150 Key Fob?
The integrated key and fob design, while convenient in some ways, presents a few drawbacks. Its size makes it vulnerable in the ignition switch. An accidental bump or knee strike can exert pressure on the fob, potentially damaging the key, the ignition switch, or both. For those who prioritize functionality and durability over integrated convenience, separating the key and fob, or opting for a standalone key, becomes an appealing alternative. Initially, attempts to simply separate the key from the fob while keeping them together to bypass the transponder requirement prove unsuccessful. The truck’s system requires the programmed transponder to be active within the ignition system itself for starting.
The Simpler, More Durable Key Solution
The good news is that Ford F150 owners have a straightforward and cost-effective option: using a plain, non-fob key. This type of key is smaller, lacks buttons, and is significantly less likely to be damaged or cause damage due to its reduced profile. These “dumb” keys function solely to start the vehicle, eliminating the risk associated with the larger, more fragile fob.
Parts Needed for Your 2017 F150 Key Replacement
To implement this solution, you’ll need to acquire the correct replacement keys. The Ford part number for these plain keys is 184-R8128. Alternatively, you can search for the general part number Strattec 5923293. Ordering these keys online is often the most convenient and cost-effective method. Expect to pay around $38 for a pair of keys, including shipping, depending on the vendor.
Alt text: A close-up of a Strattec 5923293 plain key blank for Ford vehicles, highlighting its simple design and the sidewinder keyway.
Key Cutting at Your Local Hardware Store
Once you have your blank keys, you’ll need to have them cut to match your existing key. While dealerships can cut keys, local hardware stores like ACE Hardware often provide this service at a lower cost and with greater convenience. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm if they stock sidewinder key blanks and have the necessary key cutting equipment.
While some hardware stores might initially hesitate to cut keys not purchased from them, explaining that you attempted to buy the key blank from them but they didn’t stock the specific type usually resolves this issue. Key cutting for these sidewinder keys typically takes about 10 minutes for two keys, with meticulous attention to detail to ensure an accurate match. The cost for key cutting is minimal, often around $1-$2 per key.
Alt text: A key cutting machine precisely cutting a sidewinder key, illustrating the process required for Ford F150 replacement keys.
Programming Your New 2017 F150 Key
After obtaining your cut keys, the final step is programming them to work with your 2017 Ford F150. The programming process is surprisingly simple and can be done yourself in a few minutes without any special tools. Follow these steps:
- Insert the first working fob/key into the ignition. Turn the ignition to the “on” position for approximately 5 seconds. Then, remove the key.
- Insert the second working fob/key into the ignition. Turn the ignition to the “on” position for about 5 seconds. At this point, you may see a key code identifier appear on your dashboard display, indicating the system has entered programming mode. Remove the key.
- Insert the new key you want to program into the ignition. Turn the ignition to the “on” position and wait. Within a few seconds (around 4 seconds), the door locks should cycle, indicating successful programming. You might also see the key code identifier on the screen again.
- Verify successful programming by attempting to start your Ford F150 with the new key.
Repeat this process for any additional plain keys you wish to program.
Alt text: The ignition switch of a 2017 Ford F150, emphasizing the location where the key fob is inserted for starting and programming.
Conclusion: Durable and Affordable Key Fob Replacement
For around $40, you can equip your 2017 Ford F150 with two programmed “dumb” keys. This simple and effective 2017 Ford F150 Key Fob Replacement solution offers peace of mind by reducing the risk of damaging your key or ignition. This method, successfully tested on a 2017 Ford F150 Screw 4×4 XLT 5.0, provides a practical and affordable alternative to the bulky factory key fob. If you’re seeking a more robust and less obtrusive key option, this plain key replacement is well worth considering.
