Need Computerized key for Focus

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Walter Blackman - 02 Nov 2004 17:18 GMT

Ford dealer wants about one hundred dollars for a computerized key for my
Focus 2000, zx3.

Can you recommend any company that can make me a key for less in Los Angeles
or mailorder?

Can I start my car without a computerized key?

Walt

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Paul Giverin - 02 Nov 2004 19:23 GMT

>Ford dealer wants about one hundred dollars for a computerized key for my
>Focus 2000, zx3.
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
>
>Can I start my car without a computerized key?

If they are like the European Focus then the answer is no.

The car will have an anti-theft immobiliser which interrogates a
transponder inside the key. The replacement key must have such a
transponder and it must be programmed to match your car.

If you have two keys then you can use these to program further keys but
usually people wait until they are down to one key before seeking a
replacement. Only a Ford dealer can supply and program a replacement key
if you only have one key.

Like I said, this is how it works in Europe. It may be different in the
US but from what you say, it doesn't sound like it.

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Paul Giverin

British Jet Engine Website http://www.britjet.co.uk

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henry - 02 Nov 2004 22:08 GMT

There are many aftermarket keys available on e-bay, etc.
doesn't have to be a Ford brand. A local locksmith may be able to get one
also.

>>Ford dealer wants about one hundred dollars for a computerized key for my
>>Focus 2000, zx3.
[quoted text clipped - 18 lines]
> Like I said, this is how it works in Europe. It may be different in the US
> but from what you say, it doesn't sound like it.

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John R Cambron - 03 Nov 2004 17:32 GMT

> There are many aftermarket keys available on e-bay, etc.
> doesn't have to be a Ford brand. A local locksmith may be able to get one
> also.

My Ford dealer used an after market key but you will still have to
get it programed at a Ford dealer.

> >>Ford dealer wants about one hundred dollars for a computerized key for my
> >>Focus 2000, zx3.
[quoted text clipped - 18 lines]
> > Like I said, this is how it works in Europe. It may be different in the US
> > but from what you say, it doesn't sound like it.

Works the same here in North America.

Signature

John in the sand box of Marylands eastern shore.

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Craig - 03 Nov 2004 18:32 GMT

"John R Cambron" <*cambronj@chesapeake.net*> wrote...

>> There are many aftermarket keys available on e-bay, etc.
>> doesn't have to be a Ford brand. A local locksmith may be able to get one
>> also.
>
> My Ford dealer used an after market key but you will still have to
> get it programed at a Ford dealer.

Correct, assuming the original poster has only one key (and given the $100
fee Ford's quoting, this is probably the case). But if the buyer is just
looking to add another key to his existing two keys, then he can program it
himself following the instructions in the owner's manual. I found a spare
key blank on eBay, had them cut (a bit more difficult than for ordinary keys
as many places that cut keys have a policy of not cutting transponder keys),
then programmed it myself.

PS--eBay's also a good source for remote door/trunk lock/unlock devices and
they, too, can be programmed at home.

Craig

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