Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2001 Ford Taurus SELFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Key Programming - Using Diagnostic Equipment
NOTE:
This key programming procedure is used when a customer needs keys programmed into the system and does not have two programmed ignition keys available, programmed ignition key(s) have been lost or ignition switch assembly has been replaced. This procedure will erase all programmed ignition keys from the vehicle memory and the vehicle will not start until two keys have been reprogrammed to the vehicle.
- Turn ignition switch to LOCK position. Connect Worldwide Diagnostic System (WDS) tester or New Generation Star (NGS) tester to Data Link Connector (DLC). See Figure. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Using WDS or NGS perform security access procedure. See SECURITY ACCESS PROCEDURE .
- After security access procedure is been performed, select IGNITION KEY CODE ERASE from menu. DO NOT select any other additional commands from this menu. Turn ignition switch to LOCK position and disconnect scan tool.
- Insert the first programmed ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn ignition switch to RUN position (leave ignition switch in RUN position for 3 seconds).
- Turn ignition switch to LOCK position and remove key from ignition lock cylinder. Within seconds insert the second programmed ignition key into ignition lock cylinder and turn ignition switch to RUN position (leave ignition switch in RUN position for 3 seconds).
- Turn ignition switch to LOCK position and remove second encoded key from ignition lock cylinder. Vehicle should now start with both ignition keys.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.