1997 Ford Explorer AWD Logo
Posted on Aug 10, 2009
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1997 ford explorer ignition problem

1997 Ford Explorer V8 5.0 - I remove key and dash lights and all electrical stays on sort of like it is in "Run" position yet key is out. Cannot start vehicle. Steering wheel lock don't work. Replaced ignition switch/cylinder lock mechanism. No change in symptoms.

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  • Master 490 Answers
  • Posted on Aug 11, 2009
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Joined: Jul 22, 2009
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Are you aware? you have the key and tumbler and another part under the dash on the steering column called the ingition switch.
They both have to be aligned in sync to operate properly.
Question? is this a tilt steering wheel,if it is and you dont know anything about it I suggest you get a professionel to do this kind of job.
You really have to know what your doing for this one.

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1answer

How do you start ford 1997 ford explorer without a programmed key.i have a key that has not been programmed

You don't unless you are prepared to make extensive modifications to the electrical system and anti theft circuits.
Easier, much easier , to have dealer program the key.
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2answers

How to program my key to 98 ford explorer

for Ford keys (1996 -early 1998 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury)

If you want to initiate a new master key....

1. Insert new key into ignition cylinder and turn it to the ON (RUN) position. The security light on the dash will flash for fifteen minutes.


2. When the security light stops flashing, you have FIVE minutes to start the next step. Turn the ignition cylinder OFF and then back to the ON (RUN) position. The security light on the dash will flash for fifteen more minutes.

3. When the security light stops flashing, you have FIVE minutes to start the next step. Turn the ignition cylinder to OFF and then back ON (RUN) position. The dash will flash for fifteen more minutes.

4. After the security light stops flashing the third time, the new key has been programmed into the vehicles computer and will operate the car. It has replaced ALL the previous electronic key codes and is the ONLY key programmed into the vehicles computer.
If you want to add a key....


1. Insert an existing key into the ignition cylinder.


2. Turn the ignition cylinder to ON (RUN) and back to OFF.

3. Remove the existing key and, within 15 seconds, insert the new key and turn it to ON (RUN).

4. The security light will light up for two seconds to indicate success in programming the key into the vehicle.

5. Don't attempt to start the vehicle with any key for at least 1 minute.
<HR>On-Board Programming Method "C"


for Ford keys (Later 1998-newer Ford, Lincoln, Mercury)

If you want to initiate a new master key....

1. This requires that the vehicle be connected to special dealer equipment. There are two ten minute delays involved while this device erases all existing key programming and sets up the vehicle computer to accept new key codes. Two new keys should be ready because the system requires a minimum of two keys in the program. After the first two keys are programmed, additional keys can be entered individually by following the instructions for adding duplicate keys (below).

If you want to add a key....


**You must have two original keys to perform this procedure. If you only have one key, you WILL have to take it to the dealer to get it programmed**


1. Insert and existing (working) key into the ignition cylinder.

2. Turn the ignition cylinder ON (RUN) and back to OFF. Ignition should stay on for at least ONE SECOND.

3. Remove the existing key and, within TEN seconds, insert a second working key and turn it to ON (RUN) and the back OFF. Ignition must be in ON for at least ONE second, but no more than TEN seconds. Remove the key.

4. Insert the new key before TWENTY seconds have elapsed and turn it to ON (RUN). Leave it the ON position for at least ONE secondand turn back to OFF.

5. The security light will light up for THREE seconds to indicate that the new key has been successfully programmed.

6. To program additional keys, repeat steps 1 through 5
As a precautionary measure for all of the above procedures, you should wait at least one minute after you have performed this until you start your vehicle.


If you need further help, reach me via phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/marc_162a3912222e83a4

0helpful
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2002 Ford Explorer -engine won't turn-dash lights flash, chatter

Could be electrical problem. Your CPU brain for the motor.
0helpful
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Replaced the ignition lock and tumbler. Alarm going off nostart

you need to have the keys programmed with a ford scantool. that's the only way.
0helpful
1answer

Replacing the control module on my 1997 ford explorer

the module is located behind the dash just to the left of the radio. remove the two screws below the radio and the dash panel snaps out and you can access the module
0helpful
1answer

1996 Ford Explorer Steering wheel locked

pull cover off of bottom and turn key to on and push pin up with scratch owl should be able to remove tumbler then
1helpful
1answer

Key for ignition

Ignition Switch
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Remove the steering wheel.
  3. As necessary, remove all under dash panels in order to gain access to the ignition switch.
  4. As necessary, lower the steering column to gain working clearance.
  5. Disconnect the ignition switch electrical connectors.
  6. Remove the ignition switch retaining screws from the studs. Disengage the ignition switch from switch rod. Remove the switch from the vehicle.
To install:
  1. Position the lock cylinder in the LOCK position.
  2. To set the switch, position a wire in the opening in the outer surface of the switch through its positions until the wire drops down into the slot.
The slot is in the bottom of the switch where the rod must be inserted to allow full movement through the switch positions.
  1. Position the ignition switch on the column studs and over the actuating rod. Torque the retaining nuts to 40-64 inch lbs. (4.5-7.2 Nm).
  2. Remove the wire from the slot in the housing. Continue the installation in the reverse order of the removal procedure.
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