Losing or needing a spare key fob for your 2004 Ford Taurus can be a hassle, especially when faced with dealership programming costs. While “programming” a key fob yourself in the traditional sense for a 2004 Taurus might not be fully possible without specialized equipment, understanding your options and potential workarounds is crucial. This guide explores what you need to know about key fobs for your 2004 Taurus and alternative methods, including a less secure but cost-effective bypass.
For a 2004 Ford Taurus, the key system is likely a PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System). This system requires a programmed transponder chip within the key to communicate with your car’s immobilizer and allow it to start. Generally, programming PATS keys requires two existing, working keys and a specific procedure done inside the vehicle, or diagnostic equipment that dealerships and locksmiths use. If you have only one working key, or no working keys, adding new keys becomes more complex and often requires professional assistance.
One less conventional method, discussed in online forums, attempts to bypass the standard key programming process altogether. This method is presented as a way to avoid the expense of professional key programming when you only have a single working PATS key. It involves obtaining generic, non-transponder keys cut to match your existing key. Then, the working PATS key is physically placed and hidden near the ignition transceiver ring.
Here’s a breakdown of this risky workaround:
- Get Generic Keys: Have at least two generic, non-transponder keys cut to match your current working key’s cut. These keys will mechanically operate the ignition and doors.
- Access Ignition Transceiver Ring: Carefully remove the transceiver ring that surrounds your car’s ignition cylinder. This ring is responsible for reading the transponder chip in your key.
- Secure Working PATS Key: Take your original, working PATS key and position it directly inside the removed transceiver ring. Secure it tightly using plastic cable ties or similar fasteners. Ensure the key is positioned so the transceiver ring can consistently read its chip.
- Hide the Assembly: Conceal the transceiver ring with the secured PATS key inside the vehicle’s dashboard. Choose a location that is difficult to access but away from moving parts or extreme temperatures.
- Reassemble and Test: Reinstall any dashboard components you removed. Now, use the generic, non-transponder keys you had cut. Because your original PATS key is constantly present and being read by the transceiver ring, the car’s immobilizer should be bypassed, allowing you to start the engine with the generic keys.
Important Security Considerations:
While this method might seem like a quick fix, it significantly compromises your vehicle’s security. By permanently bypassing the PATS system, you are essentially disabling your car’s anti-theft protection. Anyone with a generic key cut for your car will be able to start and drive it. This risk is comparable to using a remote starter bypass module that contains a permanently installed key, but is arguably less sophisticated and potentially more vulnerable.
A More Secure and Recommended Approach:
For genuine security and peace of mind, the recommended method for obtaining spare keys for your 2004 Ford Taurus is professional key programming.
- Dealership Programming: Ford dealerships have the necessary equipment and expertise to program new PATS keys specifically for your vehicle. This is generally the most secure but also the most expensive option.
- Automotive Locksmiths: Many specialized automotive locksmiths also possess the tools to program car keys, often at a more competitive price than dealerships. Ensure the locksmith is reputable and experienced with PATS systems.
Conclusion:
While workarounds like hiding a PATS key exist, they come with considerable security risks. For your 2004 Ford Taurus, professional key programming by a dealership or qualified locksmith remains the most secure and reliable way to obtain spare key fobs. If cost is a major concern and you understand the security implications, the bypass method offers a less secure alternative, but proceed with caution and awareness of the increased risk of theft.
