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Does a 99 Ford Taurus have a chip in the key?

Yes, the 1999 Ford Taurus did have a chip in the key. This was a common feature in many vehicles of that era as automakers began incorporating electronic security systems to prevent theft.


The Chip in the 99 Ford Taurus Key


The 1999 Ford Taurus was equipped with a transponder key, also known as a chip key. This type of key contains a small radio frequency identification (RFID) chip embedded inside the plastic head of the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the car's computer system reads the unique code from the chip to verify that it is the correct key for that vehicle.


The chip in the 99 Ford Taurus key served two main purposes:



  • Security: The unique code in the chip prevented the car from starting if an unauthorized key was used, helping to deter theft.

  • Convenience: The chip key eliminated the need for a traditional metal key cut to a specific pattern, making it more difficult to duplicate.


Without the correct chip key, the 99 Ford Taurus would not start, as the car's computer system would not recognize the key and would disable the ignition.


Replacing a Chip Key for a 99 Ford Taurus


Replacing a lost or damaged chip key for a 99 Ford Taurus required programming the new key to the car's computer system. This process typically involved taking the vehicle to a Ford dealership or an automotive locksmith that had the necessary equipment and software to program the new key.


The cost to replace a chip key for a 99 Ford Taurus could vary, but it was generally more expensive than a traditional metal key due to the additional electronic components and programming required.

How do I know if my Ford key has a chip?


Key Identification
Transponder keys also have a chip in the head of the key. Typically they have a plastic head and are larger than the mechanical key. For example, here is a picture of a Ford H75 mechanical key blank and the H74-PT transponder key blank.



How do I reprogram my Ford ignition key?


Ford Key Fob Programming Directions

  1. Ensure that all car doors are shut.
  2. Turn the key in the ignition OFF to RUN very quickly eight times.
  3. If successful, your door locks will cycle between lock and unlock.
  4. Take the Ford key fob you wish to program and press any button.



How to program key for Ford Taurus?


How to Program a Ford Key Fob

  1. Get inside your vehicle and make sure that all of the doors are closed.
  2. Quickly turn the ignition from OFF to RUN 8 times.
  3. As soon as the door locks begin cycling, press any button on the Ford key fob you wish to program.
  4. Repeat Step 3 for any additional key fobs you need to program.



What year did Ford start using computer chips?


I found that while GM developed new computerized systems for the 1981 model year and Ford installed its first EEC (Electronic Engine Control) system on the 1978 Lincoln Versailles, it was Chrysler — which, believe it or not, was once known for technical innovation — that beat them both by introducing its Electronic ...



Can I program a Ford key myself?


Ford Key Fob Programming Step-by-Step Process
Press the UNLOCK button on the driver-side door. Turn the ignition from OFF to RUN 8 times in 10 seconds. The 8th time you will need to end on RUN. As soon as you enter your Ford key fob programming mode, all the doors should lock and unlock.



How do you open a Ford Taurus without a key?


Unlocking Your Vehicle

  1. Tap Home in the FordPass App.
  2. Select a vehicle.
  3. Press and hold the Unlock button until the circle starts spinning.



How do you tell if you have a chipped key?


Another option is to contact your trusted locksmith service or dealership. Based on the year, make, and model of your vehicle a dealership or auto locksmith can tell if your car takes a chip key or not. If you currently operate your vehicle with a metal key, then it's not transponder equipped.



What happens if I lose my Ford key?


If your coded keys are lost or stolen, and you do not have an extra one, new coded keys may be obtained from your Ford Dealer.



What is the difference between a transponder key and a chip key?


There is no difference between a transponder key and a chip key; both terms refer to the same type of car key that uses an embedded electronic chip to communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer system. The terms are often used interchangeably in automotive contexts.



What year did Ford start putting chips in the keys?


The first Ford transponders were introduced in the 1996 model year. From then until the 2000 model year, transponders were optional equipment on a limited number of models. Chart 1 specifies the transponder equipped Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles from 1996 – 1999.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.