Programming 99-04 Mustang Keys using Forscan

Mustang5L5

That is…until I whipped out my Bissell
Mod Dude
Feb 18, 2001
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Massachusetts
Figure this might be of some use to someone down the road. Recently did this on my car.

As is quite common, I only received one working key when I bought my car. I wanted a 2nd and the only way to do this was to either go the dealer, or call a locksmith, or disable PATS. I've been using Forscan for quite some time, and it's pretty good when it comes to programming modules and such on later Fords. I saw it will do PATS programming and gave it a shot.


For Keys, i recommend purchasing high quality keys. Strattec is the only licensed manufacturer for Ford-branded keys. Part number 597602. LMR sells them for about $40 each key, but if you look around you can find other retailers selling for cheaper. I bought two for $17 each from a seller on ebay.

Got them cut locally. Home Depot and bit retailers wouldn't do it for me. Had to find a local locksmith to do it, but it was about $3 a key to cut.


After that, i booted up Forscan. Entire process took 15 mins. You'll need the software from www.forscan.org, a laptop and a decide to connect your laptop to the vehicle either through USB, Wifi or bluetooth. You will also need to apply for the extended license, which is free if you get the 2 month trial license (which you can renew multiple times). Really my total cost for this was my OBD2 to wifi adapter, which i've had for years.

After connecting, you simply go to service procedures and run the PATS programming procedure. Pretty easy. One thing to note is that you NEED 2 keys physically present to erase and program new keys. The procedure will erase and program a minimum of 2 keys. If you don't have two functional keys, the procedure will be stuck in programming mode and unable to proceed until you get your hands on 2 functional keys (keys that don't have internal issues preventing them from being programmed). for this reason i really wouldn't use cheap off-brand aftermarket keys in case one is a dud.

Here's a video showing the process.

View: https://youtu.be/IExCLyy80FE?si=Ic6b7J9qhhXgnQpc
 
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Once you have 2 programmed keys, you can easily program a 3rd (up to 8 total keys) using the procedure outlined in the owners manual. This procedure is also in the above video near the end.

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