2001 Ford Excursion Owner's Manual - Page 81

Controls and features Key information Your vehicle is supplied with two coded keys. Only a coded key will start your vehicle. Spare coded keys can be purchased from your dealership. Your dealership can program your key or you can "do it yourself", refer to Programming spare keys. Large metallic objects, electronic devices on the key chain that can be used to purchase gasoline or similar items, or a second key on the same key ring as the coded key ignition key may cause vehicle starting issues. If present, you need to keep these objects from touching the coded key ignition key while starting the engine. These objects and devices cannot damage the coded key ignition key, but can cause a momentary issue if they are too close to the key during engine start. If a problem occurs, turn ignition OFF and restart the engine with all other objects on the key ring held away from the ignition key. Check to make sure the coded key ignition key is an approved Ford coded key ignition key. If your keys are lost or stolen you will need to do the following: • Use your spare key to start the vehicle. or • Have your vehicle towed to a dealership or locksmith. The key codes will need to be erased from your vehicle and new key codes will need to be re-coded. Replacing coded keys can be very costly and you may want to store an extra programmed key away from the vehicle in a safe place to prevent an unforeseen inconvenience. 81