i lost my 1998 ford ranger keys, can I get replacement keys by giving ford my vin number?

Answer 1

yes or you can have a locksmith come to your house or where ever the truck is and make a key for it.

Answer 2

I am unsure if the "micro-computer in the key housing" was a feature of the Ford Ranger as early as 1998. I have a 2003 Ranger now; it has that type of key.

In an unfortunate urban legend, thieves have supposedly scammed dealers, enabling them to steal vehicles by merely saying, "I lost my key; here's the VIN number," which they got by simply reading it through the windshield off the little plate in plain view even with the vehicle locked. I don't think this works now, if it ever did, with dealers; you must prove you own that vehicle before they will make a new key. Even then, I think they they need to reprogram the computer inside the vehicle to accept the new key. They also must reprogram the chip in any older key you might still own to match the the new in-vehicle reprogrammed code. I lost one of my two keys once, and that's what they had to do, because if anyone found the old key it might be used for theft. In other words, I believe dealers are not allowed to use a code on this type of key matching any which have already been used.

So I think merely giving them your VIN number won't work, for all the rather complicted reasons above.

Solutions involving removing and replacing the ignition key assembly are probably correct (I don't know for sure), but that is definitely a hassle and also runs the strong chance of really breaking things, thus costing a small fortune. Be careful, have a professional do it.

Answer 3

2

Answer 4

Most places charge .5 hours to program keys. You will need 2 keys, or the truck wont start. 2 is the minimum number the pcm will accept. So 2 keys and .5 hours labor. Max should be 150 or so. If you have AAA, the towing is free. The dealer can cut a plain key real cheap, if you show proof of ownership. This way you can at least turn the ign on and be able to turn the wheels, and tow it to the dealer yourself. Can't think of any cheaper way, unless you know a Ford tech....

Answer 5

Ranger Keys

Answer 6

More than likely you would have to remove the lock on the front door, and read the number off the lock housing, then send the info to the dealer, who would provide the proper key. Some lock shops can also look this number up on their catalog, then cut the proper key for less money than the dealer would charge. Be careful removing the lock, so that You do not break the connecting clip from the transfer rod to the lock mechanism on the door.

Answer 7

The absolutely free reverse vin check sites generally provide fake information. To get real information, money will have to be paid. The free searches provide fake information so they can get your email address to send spam.

Stay away from shady reverse vin check sites, most likely you won't get any information after you make the payment. Not to mention you won't get a report and you won't get an answer if you try to call for a refund. Stick with a reputable reverse vin check site like http://www.reversevincheck.net that has been around since 1995.

Answer 8

As long as you have proof of ownership and the vin # you should be able to get the keys replaced. If you don't won't all the hassle though it may be easier to purchase a new ignition switch. When it is installed you will get new keys. It is not to hard to replace yourself but if you are not mechanically inclined it should not cost to much to get it replaced.

Answer 9

Going through a Ford dealership yes you should be able to get a key.

Answer 10

1

Answer 11

Yes by proof of ownership and VIN #. As a footnote, duct tape
a spare in a hidden spot. I use the back of my license plate.