How to prgraim 98 Windstar security system

I have a 98 Windstar Ford after-market security system with remotes that have only 2 buttons, ARM and DISARM (no panic). THis was installed by the dealer on my new Winsttar and the key fob has the Ford logo but no serial number. It does not respond to programming by the usual Key/Igntion, off/on 10 time cycle. Any ideas how I can program in a new key fob I bought on EBay?

Called Code-Alarm brand vendor locally who directed me in the steps to program this OEM aftermarket Ford alarm. Ford used this OEM brand in 98 in the Seattle area at least. Turn ignition key to ON, find security system "button" under dash near steering wheel, (which was located on the far left side of the under-panel right near the door jamb), hold the button down for 10-15 seconds, locks and alarm horn will cycle 3 times, this signifies programming mode is active, while still holding down button press ARM on each of the remotes/fobs wanting to program, system will signify successful programming of each by a door lock/horn sound brief cycle, turn key to off and remotes are now good.
The key to this aftermarket Ford dealer installed system programming is finding the security system button within easy reach of the steering wheel. This system DOES NOT work as a Ford Factory installed keyless system does in going into programming mode.

Called Code-Alarm brand vendor locally who directed me in the steps to program this OEM aftermarket Ford alarm. Ford used this OEM brand in 98 in the Seattle area at least. Turn ignition key to ON, find security system "button" under dash near steering wheel, (which was located on the far left side of the under-panel right near the door jamb), hold the button down for 10-15 seconds, locks and alarm horn will cycle 3 times, this signifies programming mode is active, while still holding down button press ARM on each of the remotes/fobs wanting to program, system will signify successful programming of each by a door lock/horn sound brief cycle, turn key to off and remotes are now good.
The key to this aftermarket Ford dealer installed system programming is finding the security system button within easy reach of the steering wheel. This system DOES NOT work as a Ford Factory installed keyless system does in going into programming mode.


SO does it work now? Those COdeALarm units are terrible. I quit selling them long ago.

It worked like a charm once I found and used the magic "button" I did not know I had. I'm pretty mad at the Ford dealer who insisted they were right and were ready to sell me remotes/fobs that they had no clue how to program.
The CodeAlarm system has been fine on my Windstar and has actually prevented a theft or two in the last 5 years. What I hate is the fact you have to disarm the thing before you ever can start the car, even in your own garage, even 2 minutes after you last ran the car. The price you pay for security I guess. I've been saved in too many places with my car alarm systems from break-ins I'll never go without one again.

It worked like a charm once I found and used the magic "button" I did not know I had. I'm pretty mad at the Ford dealer who insisted they were right and were ready to sell me remotes/fobs that they had no clue how to program.
The CodeAlarm system has been fine on my Windstar and has actually prevented a theft or two in the last 5 years. What I hate is the fact you have to disarm the thing before you ever can start the car, even in your own garage, even 2 minutes after you last ran the car. The price you pay for security I guess. I've been saved in too many places with my car alarm systems from break-ins I'll never go without one again.


You know you can program that alarm to be active arming and not passive arming right? That means it will only arm when you tell it to. :eek7:

To Ponchonutty:

Please elaborate on your informatin regarding the passive vs. active alarm system programming.
Thanks.