How do you program a key for a 1998 Ford Explorer?

Programming a key for a 1998 Ford Explorer is typically not a DIY task; you generally need a dealer or licensed automotive locksmith with Ford's security programming equipment to add or reprogram a transponder key.

This article explains why that is the case, what options exist for owners who need a replacement or additional key, and what you should expect in terms of ownership verification, timing, and cost.

Understanding the security system in the 1998 Explorer

Ford’s 1998 Explorer relies on the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS), which uses a transponder embedded in the ignition key. The engine control module will only start the vehicle if it recognizes the correct transponder signal. Replacing or adding keys requires programming that links the new key’s transponder to the vehicle’s immobilizer, a process that is tightly controlled to prevent theft. This system typically prevents home DIY programming and requires authorized equipment and credentials.

Why DIY programming isn’t recommended for this model

Because the vehicle’s immobilizer must be correctly synchronized with the new key, attempting to program keys without the right toolset or authorization can render the system unusable or unlock vulnerabilities. Industry practice is to route this through trained professionals who can verify ownership and ensure the programming is secure and compliant with Ford’s specifications.

Who can program a key for a 1998 Explorer?

Owners typically rely on professional services rather than at-home methods. The main avenues are:

• Ford authorized dealers with access to Ford’s service programming system


• Licensed automotive locksmiths equipped with factory-grade PATS programming tools


• Some independent shops that have the proper credentials and software for older Ford models

While all three options are viable, dealers and qualified locksmiths are most likely to have the correct software versions and security codes needed for a 1998 Explorer.

What information and items you may need to bring

To streamline the process, technicians typically request specific information and documents. Gather these items in advance to reduce delays.

• Proof of ownership (registration, title, or bill of sale)


• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and year/model confirmation


• Photo ID for the authorized owner


• Existing keys you want to retain or program alongside the new key


• Any remote fobs you want to pair with the new key

Having these on hand helps the service provider verify ownership and minimize the time the vehicle spends at the shop.

What to expect in terms of cost and timing

Costs can vary widely by region, provider, and whether you are adding a single key or replacing multiple keys. For a vehicle of this vintage, expect a premium for immobilizer programming, parts (the new transponder key) and labor. The time required ranges from around 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on whether a single key or multiple keys are being processed, and whether the shop needs to source a blank key or cut it on-site.

Best practices and cautions

Always work with reputable providers who can document the programming with a service record. Avoid attempts to bypass the immobilizer or use unverified key blanks, which can damage the vehicle’s security system or violate warranty/ownership terms. If you’ve lost all programmed keys, be prepared for a more involved process that may include immobilizer reprogramming and verification steps with Ford’s service channels.

Summary

For a 1998 Ford Explorer, key programming is generally restricted to dealers and licensed locksmiths with Ford-compatible equipment. Owners should expect to prove ownership, provide vehicle details, and possibly pay a premium for immobilizer programming. DIY methods are not recommended due to security and compatibility concerns. Planning ahead and choosing a reputable provider can help ensure the process is completed smoothly and securely.

How to program key fob 1998 Ford Explorer?

To program a 1998 Ford Explorer key fob, you must first enter programming mode by rapidly turning the ignition key from OFF to RUN 8 times within 10 seconds, ending with the key in the RUN position. The door locks will then cycle to confirm you are in programming mode. Within 20 seconds, press any button on the key fob, and the locks will cycle again to confirm it has been programmed.
 
This video demonstrates how to program a 1998-2008 Ford key fob: 1mRANDOMFIXYouTube · Nov 18, 2017
Step-by-step programming instructions

1. Close all doors and then open the driver's side door. 
2. Using the power door lock switch on the driver's door panel, press UNLOCK to ensure all doors are unlocked. 
3. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it from the OFF position to the RUN position 8 times within 10 seconds. The 8th turn must end in the RUN position. 
4. Wait for the door locks to cycle to confirm that the vehicle is in programming mode. 
5. Within 20 seconds, press any button on the first key fob you want to program. The door locks will cycle to confirm programming of that fob. 
6. If you have a second key fob, press any button on it within 20 seconds. The locks will cycle again to confirm. 
7. Turn the ignition to the OFF position. The locks will cycle once more to indicate that programming is complete. 

Does a 1998 Ford Explorer have a chip in the key?

NOTE: This ignition key has a chip hidden inside of the plastic head. It is a part of your automobile security system to prevent theft. Therefore, you MUST get it both: cut and programmed. Cutting only will NOT allow you to start the engine.

How to program a Ford Explorer key?

You can program a Ford Explorer key fob yourself using a specific ignition and button-pressing sequence, but some newer models and smart keys require professional tools. To program a remote fob, turn the ignition from OFF to RUN eight times within 10 seconds, then press a button on the new fob to program it. If your vehicle needs a tool or if you are programming an "all keys lost" situation, you will need to visit a dealer, locksmith, or use a diagnostic tool like an FDRS.
 
This video shows how to program a Ford key fob with a computer: 44sBearded Ford TechYouTube · Oct 10, 2022
DIY remote fob programming
This method works for many standard remote key fobs.

1. Enter programming mode: Close all doors, then open the driver's door. Press the UNLOCK button on the driver's door panel. In 10 seconds, turn the ignition from OFF to RUN eight times. 
2. Program the first fob: Within eight seconds, press any button on the new key fob. 
3. Confirm programming: Your car's door locks should cycle to confirm the fob is programmed. 
4. Program additional fobs: Repeat step 2 for any other fobs you need to program. 
5. Finish: Turn the ignition to the OFF position. The doors will lock and unlock one more time to confirm. If it doesn't work, repeat the process, trying to turn the key faster. 

Professional programming
If the DIY method doesn't work, or for smart keys and "all keys lost" situations, professional tools are necessary. 

• Smart keys: Newer smart keys often require diagnostic equipment like an FDRS to program. The process may involve placing the key in a specific slot in the center console. 
• "All keys lost": If you have no working keys, you will definitely need a professional to program a new one using a diagnostic tool. 
• When to see a professional: If you can't get the DIY method to work after a few tries, it's best to take your vehicle to a dealer or an automotive locksmith. 

Can you program a Ford key yourself?

Yes, you can program many Ford key fobs yourself using a specific, time-sensitive sequence, typically involving cycling the ignition key 8 times within 10 seconds while the driver's door is open. This process puts the vehicle in "programming mode," and then you press a button on the new remote to complete the programming for that fob. Some newer or more complex keys, especially those that have lost all fobs, may require professional help from a locksmith or dealer. 
This video demonstrates how to program a Ford key fob by cycling the ignition: 59sHindsight 101YouTube · Oct 7, 2017
To program a Ford key fob

1. Prepare the vehicle: Close all doors, then open the driver-side door. 
2. Enter programming mode:
   • Turn the ignition from OFF to RUN 8 times within 10 seconds. The 8th time, leave the key in the RUN position. 
   • If successful, the door locks will cycle to confirm you are in programming mode. If they don't, you need to turn the key faster. 
3. Program the new fob: Within 8 seconds, press any button on the new key fob you want to program. 
   • The door locks will cycle again to confirm the fob is programmed. 
4. Program additional fobs (if applicable): If you have more fobs to program, press a button on each one within 8 seconds to program them. The locks will cycle to confirm each one. 
5. Finish programming: Turn the ignition to the OFF position. The door locks will cycle one final time to confirm the process is complete. 

This video shows how to program a Ford key when you have two working keys: 59sJunkyard JunkieYouTube · Jan 15, 2022
Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions, as the process can vary by model and year. 
• Fob and key compatibility: Make sure the key fob has a compatible immobilizer, especially if it was purchased online. 
• Lost all keys: If you have lost all of your keys, the self-programming method may not work for the immobilizer chip, and you will need professional help to program a new key. 
• Time limits: Be mindful of the time limits for each step, as the process must be completed within a specific timeframe.