Expert: INSTALLSUPPORT - 8/23/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I have a 1996 Ford Explorer that came with the Magic Key anti theft system where you have to wave a FOB infront of a spot on the dash in order to start the car. When this is done, it will beep twice to start the car, or 3 times if I put it in vallet mode. I just lost my last FOB and when I call the ford dealership, they are NO help whatsoever. I'm trying to get a new FOB.. I've looked EVERYWHERE I know of on the internet and called a lot of places. I saw a post about a 95 Camry that has the same system, and I was hoping you could answer my question as well. Thank you!

ANSWER: See the trouble with these systems is that
they are set up without the ability to add
more "keys" to them individually.
Locked eprom technology.

Meaning they were produced in series, with maybe
6 to 10 differing codes to keep the dealer cost low,
And now unfortunately unavailable. Without a master
dealer, or taking it directly to the manufacturer
who I believe is now out of business, you may
as well opt to replace with something else that
will serve your purposes. :>(

Sorry I just report the news. Even if you were
to locate someone who sells the system, you would
have to replace the entire system not just the keys as
they are only programed at the factory. Can't be
re programmed.

Wish I had better news to offer, but these
devices come n go alot, and are cheaply produced
for the dealerships to distribute at a profitable
cost.

I hope this helped.

ALARMTEK

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Ok. Thank you for your quick response! Is there any way to trick it in to vallet mode? Some kind of magnet or really big mallet? Haha. I tried looking under the dash, and it seems that it is locked inside a sealed metal case.

Answer
No, this is a basic, after market starter kill/relay box.
I's installed on the power, ignition and starter wire
in the ignition switch harness.

You'd need to ID the wire colors (www.wirewerx.com)
and then remove the added wiring from the OEM,
repair the wiring to pre install condition, or
install another, fresh system in it's place
if security is important to you.

A.