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Sometimes my 1997 Ford Expedition won't start. I have 1 original factory key and two spare keys which I programmed myself. All power works, when I turn the key, but car won't engage. THEFT light appears for about 2 seconds then disappears. Door locks go up and down once or twice. Remote works fine. If I wait a few hours or overnight, car will ususally start on the next attempt, though all the keys don't typically work and it's not always the original that does. Tried disconnecting /reconnecting battery, but that makes no difference. Battery is brand new--could that process have reset something? If I take it to the dealership, what should I expect? I this something I can handle on my own? Is it possible/ what's needed to reset /bypas or disable my anti-theft?
Optional Information: Year : 1997Make : FordModel: ExpeditionEngine: V8
If you had only one key that was original, without WDS or IDS, you as the vehicle owner can not reprogram 2 more keys. You must have 2 factory or dealership programmed keys in order to program a 3rd key. You are putting the vehicle in a lock down mode and later it restarts. You can not disable or bypass the PATS System, The dealership can diagnose the concern through the data link connector.
Experience: 20 years with Ford, Master Certified
So, what's WDS or IDS?
-Does it matter that I DID program two keys with my one original (about 1 1/2 years ago), and that both of those new keys worked fine for awhile. It's only recently that I get a random situation where my car won't engage using any of the keys (original or copies).
-can there be a link with the new battery and/or having lost power completely and then replacing a new battery?
-is the dealer the only one who can diagnose the concern or can another mechanic do it?
-can the dealer disable my anti-theft altogether? OR can a garage do that?
Lets try this procedure :
NOTE: Before starting this procedure, make sure the key(s) you want to program have the correct mechanical cut.
NOTE: Performing this procedure does not erase existing programmed keys.
This sounds great and I will definitely pay for your answer. I appreciate it. My last clarification is that in order to do the first part of the process, i need to begin with a brand new key that is cut to fit my vehicle but is not (and has never been) programmed, correct? In other words, I can't do that first Key Programming sequence with one of the keys that I have already (the factory original, or one of my existing two copies that i programmed and that work most of the time but not all the time), correct? Just checking, and thanks!