Does a 99 Ford Taurus have a chip in the key?
As a seasoned auto repair professional, I often get questions about vehicle keys and their security features. One common query is whether older vehicles, like the 1999 Ford Taurus, are equipped with a chip in the key. This article will provide a detailed explanation to help you understand the technology behind the keys for this specific model.
Understanding Transponder Keys
By the late 1990s, many car manufacturers began incorporating transponder technology into their keys to enhance vehicle security. A transponder key contains a small chip that communicates with the car's ignition system. If the chip is not present or the signal does not match, the car will not start. This system was designed to reduce car theft by making it harder to hotwire vehicles.
Does the 1999 Ford Taurus Have a Chip Key?
Yes, the 1999 Ford Taurus is equipped with a transponder key. Ford introduced this technology, known as the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS), in many of their vehicles during the late 1990s. The PATS system in the 1999 Ford Taurus requires a key with a properly programmed chip to start the engine. If you attempt to use a key without the chip or with an unprogrammed chip, the car's engine will not start.
How to Identify If Your Key Has a Chip
If you're unsure whether your key has a chip, here are a few ways to check:
- Look for a thick, plastic head on the key. Transponder keys typically have a larger head to house the chip.
- Check your vehicle's owner's manual. It often specifies whether the key is a transponder key.
- Visit a professional locksmith or dealership. They can use specialized equipment to determine if your key has a chip.
What to Do If You Lose Your Key
Losing a transponder key can be inconvenient, but there are solutions:
- Contact your local Ford dealership. They can provide a replacement key and program it to your vehicle.
- Visit a professional locksmith. Many locksmiths are equipped to create and program transponder keys at a lower cost than dealerships.
- Have your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and proof of ownership ready, as these are typically required to create a new key.
Conclusion
The 1999 Ford Taurus does indeed have a chip in the key as part of its security system. If you need a replacement key or have questions about programming, don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto repair professional or locksmith. At Kevin's Autos, we're always here to help with your car maintenance and repair needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
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 ...
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.
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 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 you open a Ford Taurus without a key?
Unlocking Your Vehicle
- Tap Home in the FordPass App.
- Select a vehicle.
- Press and hold the Unlock button until the circle starts spinning.
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.
How do I reprogram my Ford ignition key?
Ford Key Fob Programming Directions
- Ensure that all car doors are shut.
- Turn the key in the ignition OFF to RUN very quickly eight times.
- If successful, your door locks will cycle between lock and unlock.
- Take the Ford key fob you wish to program and press any button.
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.
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.
How to program key for Ford Taurus?
How to Program a Ford Key Fob
- Get inside your vehicle and make sure that all of the doors are closed.
- Quickly turn the ignition from OFF to RUN 8 times.
- As soon as the door locks begin cycling, press any button on the Ford key fob you wish to program.
- Repeat Step 3 for any additional key fobs you need to program.
