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t_haynes · 01-23-2010, 18:53

Hello all...

I have a used 1999 Mercury GM which came with one key. I want to get another, but it seems as if it will have to be programmed by a locksmith or a dealer since I only have one.

What is the best strategy here given that I am cheap?

I have a "key code" in the owner's manual written in pen. I am not sure if that is any help to me in this process.

**Bert** · 01-23-2010, 19:10

I don't believe they had programming in 1999. You can just go to the lock shop or dealer and they will cut a duplicate from your old key. You don't have a light in the instrument cluster that flashes "Theft" do you?

t_haynes · 01-24-2010, 03:25

I will check for the theft light. I was expecting a chipped key, so I looked on ebay to see about a cheap blank. The descriptions on ebay made it sound like there was a procedure to program a new key for the 1999's.

jsuthers · 01-24-2010, 09:35

Im thinking they were talking about the key fob....

t_haynes · 01-24-2010, 09:48

I have the flashing theft light thing on the dash, and the manual says it has the passive anti-theft system. I have a chipped key for sure.

thefonz · 01-24-2010, 10:39

A new key usually runs 35-40 from the locksmith and you can program your own. (not on the newer ones, but a 1999 you can)

t_haynes · 01-24-2010, 10:57

If I am reading the instructions correctly, I need to have two keys to program a new one.

thefonz · 01-24-2010, 11:46

Yep, looks like most Fords 1996-1998 took one key, Some 98's and anything above 1998 takes two keys. so definitely more $$ for a locksmith or dealer to program for you. You could get a cloned key, but I can't remember the price.

redstangbob · 01-25-2010, 03:45

I had the same situation when I bought my 99 last year. After a couple of calls I found it no more expensive, and a lot quicker to have the dealer do it. Took about 35 minutes and $80. After you have 2 keys, if you want to add a third you can get a replacement and have it cut, then program it yourself.

t_haynes · 01-25-2010, 15:11

I went by the dealer, and they charged $71.32. It was about a 30 minute wait - Thanks for the help...