2016 Ford Explorer Key Replacement

The 2016–2019 Explorer uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the Ford Explorer key guide.

2016 Ford Explorer: key facts

Key type: Remote-head key
Push-to-start: No
Transponder chip: Varies by trim — we confirm by VIN
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

We believe the 2016 refresh moved bladed keys to the 128-bit Hitag Pro (H128) with smart fobs on upper trims, but this session's sources did not explicitly confirm Explorer fitment — we confirm per VIN. Proximity all-keys-lost on 2017+ can require an active-alarm adapter.

What kind of key does a 2016 Explorer use?

The 2016 Explorer on our data uses a remote-head key: a metal blade with a plastic head that holds the lock, unlock and panic buttons, plus a transponder chip inside. It is not a push-to-start setup on the key type we have on record, so you turn the key in the ignition to start the engine.

The chip is what matters most. The engine will not run unless the vehicle's anti-theft system, which Ford calls PATS, reads a chip it recognizes. A key that is cut perfectly but not programmed will turn the lock and crank the engine, then the engine will not stay running.

The chip family we have on file is the 128-bit Hitag Pro family. There is also a mechanical backup key for the door, which is useful to know about if the remote dies or the battery goes flat.

Duplicate key or all keys lost: what changes?

These two situations are handled differently, and the difference affects your time and your cost.

With at least one working key, duplication is the simpler route. For this setup an original key is needed to copy from. We cut a new blade and program the new key to the vehicle through the OBD port. Programming by OBD means we do not need to remove anything from the vehicle, and our data shows no NASTF SDRM secure access requirement for this year.

With all keys lost, replacement is still possible. We create a key from the vehicle's information, cut the blade to the lock, and program it. It takes more steps than a copy, so expect it to cost more and take longer than duplication.

You call (213) 577-1366 and tell us the year, model and whether you have any working key.
We confirm the vehicle by VIN and proof of ownership.
We cut the blade, by code if all keys are lost.
We program the new key and remote by OBD and test the start, locks and buttons.
If you want a spare, we program it in the same visit.

What affects the price of a replacement key?

We do not quote numbers on a web page, because a fair price depends on your situation. These are the things that actually move the cost:

Whether you have a working key to copy or all keys are lost.
How many keys you want programmed, since a spare is cheaper to add during the same visit than later.
Whether you need only a new shell or battery, or an entirely new key and remote.
Where the vehicle is. A visit by our mobile van to your location differs from bringing the Explorer to our Westwood storefront.
Time of day. We answer the phone around the clock, and late-night calls are handled differently from daytime appointments.
What the VIN check shows about the exact key and chip fitted to your vehicle.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

We answer around the clock, every day of the year.

Call (213) 577-1366

Common 2016 Explorer key problems

Not every key problem needs a new key, and we would rather tell you that up front. The issues we see listed for this year are:

Cracked remote-head key shells and worn buttons. Often the electronics are fine and the key can be moved to a new shell.
Key or remote battery failure. If the remote stops working but the key still starts the car, start with the battery.
PATS theft light flashing, with the engine cranking but not starting. This means the chip is not being read, which can point to a damaged key, a chip problem or an unprogrammed key.
Worn ignition lock wafers on high-mileage vehicles. If a key sticks or will not turn, the lock itself may be the problem rather than the key.

What we have not confirmed, and how we handle it

Here is the honest part. The chip family above is our best information, but the sources we checked did not explicitly confirm the fitment for the Explorer in 2016, so we treat it as unverified. We believe the 2016 refresh moved bladed keys to the 128-bit Hitag Pro, and that upper trims may have smart fobs instead. We do not state that as fact for your vehicle.

So we confirm by VIN, and in person, before cutting or programming anything. If your Explorer turns out to have a different key type than the one described here, we will tell you before work begins, not after. Proximity-key all-keys-lost jobs on 2017 and later models can need an extra active-alarm adapter, which is a reason not to assume one year matches the next.

Also, California requires locksmith companies to hold a BSIS LCO license. Ask any locksmith for it before they start work, including us.

Why call Wilshire Lock & Key

We have been in business since 1987, with a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood, Los Angeles, and mobile service vans that cover 140 cities across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. When you call, you reach our company, not a dispatch middleman who passes your job to whoever is free. David, the owner and lead technician, oversees the work.

If you are stranded, call (213) 577-1366. If you are planning ahead and have a key that works, get a spare now: it is the lighter-cost route compared with an all-keys-lost call later. More background is on our Ford Explorer key page, our Ford key overview and our car key services page. You can also contact us directly.

Frequently asked questions

Does a 2016 Ford Explorer need a programmed key?

Yes. The key has a transponder chip that the vehicle must recognize. A blade cut to fit will not keep the engine running until the chip is programmed.

Can you make a 2016 Explorer key if I lost every key?

Yes, all keys lost is possible for this setup. We cut the key and program it by OBD, and we confirm the vehicle by VIN and your proof of ownership first.

Do you need my original key to copy it?

For duplication on this vehicle, yes, an original key is needed. If you have no key at all, we handle it as an all-keys-lost job.

Is my Explorer push-to-start?

The data we hold says no, it uses a remote-head key. Some upper trims may have smart fobs, so we confirm by VIN before we bring anything out.

Why does the engine crank but not start?

If the PATS theft light is flashing, the vehicle is likely not reading the chip in your key. That can mean a damaged key or an unprogrammed one. Call us and we will diagnose it.

Do I need to go to the dealer?

Not for this year based on our data. Programming is done by OBD and does not need NASTF SDRM access. We tell you right away if a case turns out differently.

Will you come to me?

Yes. We run mobile vans across 140 cities in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, and you can also visit our Westwood storefront.

We cover all these cities

Reviewed by David, Owner & Lead Technician, Wilshire Lock & Key — in the locksmith trade since 1987.

Last updated 2026-10-11.