George Malian
Member
I bought a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. The previous owner only had the ignition key and a remote to give me. The ignition key does not turn the door locks. Today the ignition key broke inside the ignition. I took the ignition switch out but was unable to get the broken piece out. I would like to find the least expensive way out of this mess. The local Ford dealer told me that if the key was out, they could re-cut a key for me from the VIN number and I could buy a remote, but I would have to bring the vehicle there to have the remote and key programmed. I live far away from the dealership and the towing would be very costly. I was also thinking of hiring a locksmith. I read that they could take the broken piece out and possibly re-cut a key to match and program it onsite as well. Is that true? What would I need to do to get the same key to start the truck and open both doors? I could take out a door lock cylinder if need be to save on labor. Do I need to buy a new ignition lock cylinder if we're not able to get the key out or would my old switch still be usable (with a new cylinder/tumbler)? Which is the right road to take? I need my truck back! Thanks Malo