The customer arrived with two problems. First, their original key had snapped off in the ignition—a stressful situation for any driver. Second, they had purchased a replacement key online, hoping it could be made to work.
Aftermarket keys from online sources can be hit-or-miss, but in this case, the key would serve as a template for cutting a new, properly functioning blade.
Step 1: Cutting the New Key
Using his Xhorse Dolphin XP005 key cutting equipment, the locksmith began the process by selecting optical identification for the key. While the vehicle was an F-350, he noted that “they’re all the same as far as keys” and selected the F-150 profile.
The machine decoded the customer’s provided key and verified it against valid key codes. With the code confirmed and recorded, he had successfully created a mechanically cut key blank. But on a modern vehicle, a correctly cut blade is only half the battle.
The Programming Challenge: 2020 Model Year Hurdles
With the physical key ready, he turned to his Autel IM508 key programming tool. After navigating through the immobilizer menu and selecting automatic vehicle identification, he chose “2020 to 2022- Blade key” and began the immobilizer status scan.
Choose Add key (guided).
The process required an internet connection—common with modern vehicles that have enhanced security features—but came with reassuring news: “Will not erase. That’s good. We don’t want to erase anything.”
Then came the familiar waiting game. “Please wait 10 minutes.”
The Moment of Truth
After the required wait time and following the on-screen prompts to cycle the ignition, the system returned with good news: “Learning successful.”
But there was a moment of tension when attempting to start the vehicle. “It says no key detected, but it took it,” he noted. Then, with a turn of the key, the engine roared to life.
“And there she goes,” he confirmed as the F-350 started successfully.
Remote Functionality Check
With the engine running, he moved on to testing the remote functions. Lock and unlock operations worked properly, confirming that both the immobilizer chip and remote entry functions were successfully programmed.
A Valuable Lesson in Tool Selection
Perhaps the most instructive part of this service call came when he revealed his initial attempt. “I did try the top down first and it did say only up to 2019 and it did not work.”
Many programming tools have limitations, and knowing those boundaries is crucial. By recognizing that his first approach wouldn’t work for a 2020 model, he pivoted to the IM508, which specifically supported adding a key to the 2020 F-350.
“So this being a 2020, we’re glad that worked,” he explained. “We didn’t have to pull out our computer software to do the other Ford software, which saves us a little bit of time and money.”
Key Takeaways for Vehicle Owners
This real-world service call highlights several important points for Ford owners:
Keep spare keys functional – A broken key in the ignition creates immediate problems, but having a backup can save time and money.
Online keys may require professional adaptation – While you can purchase blanks online, they still need proper cutting and programming by a professional with the right equipment.
Model year matters – Even within the same vehicle line, 2019 and 2020 models may require different programming approaches.
Patience is part of the process – Modern vehicle security systems often require waiting periods during programming to prevent unauthorized key copying.
