Key Programming: Ford Expedition 1997-2011
Ford Expedition 1997-2011 Key Programming Procedure
The following are the key programming procedures for the 1997, 1998 and 2011 Ford Expedition.
Ford Expedition 1997
ORIGINATE NEW MASTER KEY:
1. Put the new key into the ignition. Turn it to the ON position. The dashboard security light will flash for 15 minutes. Once the dashboard security light stops flashing, you have five minutes to begin Step 2.
2. Turn the ignition OFF and then back to the ON position. The dashboard security light will flash for 15 additional minutes.
3. Repeat Step 2.
4. Once the dashboard security light has turned off for the third time, the key will be able to function in the car. It has been programmed into the car’s computer and has replaced ALL previous electronic key codes — the computer will not recognize any other key.
ADD DUPLICATE KEY:
1. Put the current key into the ignition.
2. Turn the ignition ON and back to OFF.
3. Remove the current key and insert the new key, turning it ON. You MUST do this within 15 seconds.
4. The security light will switch on for two seconds, confirming that the key has been successfully programmed into the vehicle.
Ford Expedition 1998 +
ADD KEY (Requires two working keys):
1. Put a current key into the ignition.
2. Turn the ignition to ON, then back to the OFF position.
3. Remove the key and insert a second key. Turn it ON and back to the OFF position. You MUST do this within five seconds.
4. Before ten seconds have elapsed, put a new key in and turn the ignition ON. After one second, turn the key back to the OFF position.
5. The dashboard security light will glow for three seconds. This confirms the programming of the new key has been successful.
About Ford Expedition
The first generation Expedition was built under the UN93 program, which ran from 1993 to 1996 and cost US$1.3 billion. It was led by chief engineer Dale Claudepierre. Prior to the UN93 program’s official approval in 1993, preliminary planning began in 1991, concurrently with the construction of the PN96 F-Series. Under design leader Bob Aikins, styling approval was completed in early 1993 (3 1/2 years ahead of 1996 production), with the UN93 design being frozen by September 1993, 34 months before manufacturing began in July 1996.
The all-new full-size SUV was introduced on May 9, 1996, and went on sale as a 1997 model on October 2, 1996. It took the place of the two-door Ford Bronco, which was getting old. The base model was the XLT. Optional three-row seating, first-row captains chairs, available second-row captains chairs, leather seating surfaces, illuminated running boards, heated side view mirrors, power moon roof, dual-zone climate control, and Ford’s Mach audio sound system with rear subwoofer were all available on the Expedition. The Eddie Bauer version included several of these features as standard.
Automatic full-time ControlTrac four-wheel drive with a two-speed dual-range BorgWarner 4406 transfer case and a central multi-disc differential was available on the Expedition. ControlTrac was first released in 1995, with four settings to choose from: Two High, Auto, Four High (lock), and Four Low (lock). There was no option for a High mode or an Auto mode with auto-lock.
A multi-link rear live axle was paired with a short- and long-arm (SLA) independent front suspension with speed-sensitive power-assisted steering. Off-road under-body skid plates, a Traction-Lok rear limited-slip differential, and a heavy-duty trailer towing kit were all available as options.
An electronically controlled pneumatic air suspension system, which raised and lowered the car depending on road and load circumstances, was available as an option. A kneel-down mode was also included in the system for easier access and egress, as well as cargo loading.
The 4.6 liter Triton V8 was standard, with the 5.4 liter version available as an option. The Expedition was designated as a Low Emission Vehicle in its initial generation (LEV). The latter engine, when combined with the heavy-duty trailer towing package and the proper axle ratio, can tow up to 8,100 pounds (3,674 kg).
