When I purchased my 2005 X-type it only came with one key.. Now I'm trying to find a spare key.. Looked on Ebay and found a few. They range from $25. to $89.. Should I buy one from Ebay?? I know the dealership told me it would cost me around $300. if I were to buy one from them.. And would I be able to program it myself? And, do I need to have the key cut? I'm at a loss..

 

You can buy an uncut key anywhere you want.

Once you have the uncut key, you can either take it to a dealer or find a locksmith to cut AND PROGRAM the key for your car.

I believe that you can have up to 4 or 5 keys programmed to a single vehicle.

If you do not have at least 2 cut/programmed/working keys for you vehicle, you cannot program another yourself (eg it takes two working keys in hand to program another key yourself).

I found a locksmith locally that will create a second key for:

Key (no FOB) - $35
Cut key - $45
Code fee - $45
Program key - $55

I have to provide proof of ownership (title works) and appear in person.

There are several good threads on this forum for programming additional FOB's and programming additional keys once you have two working keys.

Originally Posted by faltwen
I don't know if the US cars are the same as the UK but if you have 2 keys for your X Type that will both start the car then you can program a 3rd yourself. It's the same method as the Ford mondeo MK3 (UK) and I know it works as I have done it myself on the X Type and I now have 3 working keys. If I lose one then I still have 2 and do not have to pay silly money for a spare.
The method is as follows:-

Insert the first already programmed key into the ignition and turn to position II
Turn back to 0 and remove the key
Insert the second already programmed key into the ignition and turn to position II
Turn back to 0 and remove the key
Key programming mode is now activated and you have ten seconds to:
Insert the unprogrammed new key into the ignition and turn to position II
Turn back to 0 and remove the key
Allow 10 seconds to pass for the system to exit programming mode.

I know this does not help if you only have 1 key but if you have 2 then it really is an asset.

Hope this helps.

 

Does the valet key count as a working key?

 

Based on what I have read, any two keys that actually start the car will work to program a 3rd key. The important thing is that you have two keys with properly programmed chips in the key tips. The removable FOBs have nothing to do with starting the car.

Some keys will open the driver door, but not start the car (ie. chip in key not programmed) - this type of key would not be useable to make an ignition key.

Hope this clears it up.

 

To answer your question, yes the valet key can be used to program, another key. The key has a little capsule in it, your ECU can learn up to 5 capsules.

The reason for needing two keys is so that an unscrupulous parking attendant or garage employee can't clone your key and make your car disappear later on.