1999 - Key Security Chip Gone - No Start

[thscott]

In troubleshooting why my 1999 windstar would not start, I discovered that whatever security device/chip is inside the black plastic key housing is missing. The little cover is gone and the cavity is empty. So,I am assuming this is my problem, although my wife is away with our other key, so I have not verified yet that the van will start with the other key.

Any advice on my options for replacing the key and/or security device/chip - short of spending big bucks at the dealer?

Thanks.

[mundy5]

if i remember correctly, the dealer stated that only they have those replacement keys b/c of the chip. i'd wait until your wife gets back first to verify that it is the actual problem.

[duke350]

Try streetkeys. They are much lower priced then dealers. And just an FYI, if you need a remote, try keylessride.
http://streetkeys.com/order/products...model=Windstar

[thscott]

Thanks. I tried the other key (with the chip) and as I suspected the van started right up. So, I have one good key (with chip) and one bad key (missing chip).
I apparently must have two good keys in order to reprogram a new key, so even if I ordered an aftermarket chipped key, I do not think I can program it myself. I may have no other option but to go to the dealer.

[garync1]

Originally Posted by thscott

Thanks. I tried the other key (with the chip) and as I suspected the van started right up. So, I have one good key (with chip) and one bad key (missing chip).
I apparently must have two good keys in order to reprogram a new key, so even if I ordered an aftermarket chipped key, I do not think I can program it myself. I may have no other option but to go to the dealer.

Call around to some local locksmith service.. If you live in Big city you may find one that does car key programing.. They know what the dealer cost so they most of the time charge 10% less..

[duke350]

Something else to consider, no matter where you get the "key" programmed (you actually get the computer programmed to reconize the key), once you get 2 keys, get a 3rd, just in case a key gets lost or damaged. No special scantool is required to program it with 2 good working keys. And remember, any shop with a NGS (full service Ford scantool) can program the key, not just a dealer.

[thscott]

Thanks for the replies. Amazingly, I found the missing security device (transponder). It was like looking for a needle in a haystack, but found it and put it back in the key and it works just fine.

Per the earlier reply, I am going to get a third key programmed to have as a spare.

FYI, the transponder device is encased in a white plastic holder. It is about 3/4 inch long and about 1/8 inch wide. Make sure your little plastic cover on your key is intact and secure to avoid the transponder from falling out.

[mundy5]

way to go thscott! how you found it is a miracle. congrats!

what's the procedure for programming it with 2 good keys?

[thscott]

Procedure is in the owner's manual if you have it. i don't have mine handy so can't post now. Will do later.

Now, I am having trouble finding someone to cut my new blank key without programming it - they want to charge me $45 which I won't pay that much just for cutting it.

[mundy5]

My suspicion is that it does cost more b/c of the security chip so you're not going to be able to buy it for 1.79 like at a hardware store. I think $45 does not sound like a bad price considering how expensive it would be at the dealer.

[thscott]

Here is the procedure for programming a new key if you already have 2 programmed keys:

1. Place first already programmed key in ignition and turn from off to on (run) for at least 1 second then switch to OFF.

2. Within 5 seconds, insert the second already programmed key into ignition and repeat first step.

3. Within 10 seconds, insert the new key and repeat step 1.

The theft indicator light should go on for 3 seconds, after which the new key should be programmed to strt the vehicle.

[mundy5]

so did you pay the $45?

thanx for the instructions

[ponchonutty]

You can get the coded keys of the net and on Ebay sometimes. There for a while I was using the "key in a box" method to bypass the security systems when installing a remote starter. So, I used www.howardkeys.com and he had everything needed and usually the keys were less than $10 a piece!

[mundy5]

ponchonutty, I presume that you buy a blank key and have it cut at a local hardware store? Then after it's cut, you program it per thscott's instructions.

[thscott]

I found a local drug store that was able to cut my blank key for only 50 cents!

I was able to program it using the procedure above and it works great. I am happy that I have a brand new, spare, third key.