1996 Ford Explorer
Key Replacement - Save vs Dealer in Ventura County
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Dealerships charge a premium because they can. We don't. Same key, same programming, same quality - just without the markup. Call for an honest quote with no hidden fees.
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1996 Ford Explorer
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1996 Ford Explorer Price Breakdown
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1996 Ford Explorer Replacement - Fast, Affordable & Professional
Guy in Ventura, over near Promenade Park, called me on a Wednesday afternoon. Said his 1996 Explorer wouldn't start and he assumed it was a key problem because the key felt loose turning in the ignition.
He had already called the Ford dealer. They told him to tow it in, schedule a diagnostic, and go from there. He asked how long. They said maybe a week out for the appointment, then parts if anything needed ordering. He said forget it.
I got to his spot in about 25 minutes. First thing I did was try the key in the door lock. Turned fine. Tried the ignition. The cylinder had a little wobble, but it turned. The issue was actually the ignition lock cylinder itself, worn down after almost 30 years of use. The Ford part is LC1356, and these second-gen Explorer cylinders are known for getting sloppy once the wafers wear.
I decoded his existing key with my Lishi HU101, confirmed the cuts, and then pulled the cylinder. Refit it with fresh wafers matched to his original key code. Cut him a clean spare on an H75 blank while I was at it.
He stood there the whole time, asking questions. When it turned over smooth, he just nodded and said "that's what it should feel like." Whole job, maybe 40 minutes. His truck never left the parking spot.
Save vs the Dealer on Your Ford Explorer Key
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Ford Explorer Rapid Response, Done Right
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Customers who skipped the dealer markup
“A+ service at an even better price. Tim was a lifesaver. I lost my original and only key for my Audi and he was willing to come to my location at 8pm the same day. He worked fast, communicated clearly, and made sure everything worked before leaving.”
“I called over 40 locksmiths trying to get a key made for my Audi A6 and nobody could do it. Tim made it easy, fast, and affordable. He showed up with a smile and got the job done without any stress. Absolute wizard with keys.”
“My Chevy key snapped while I was running errands in North Oxnard. He removed the broken piece from the ignition, cut a new blade, programmed the transponder, and tested everything thoroughly. The whole job was smooth and professional. Best automotive locksmith I have used.”
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