TextHow Lincoln MKS Keys Changed Over the Years
Remote Head Key Era
Lincoln kept it straightforward here with a traditional remote head key. Your 2009 or 2010 MKS uses a Texas 4D (4D63) transponder chip inside the key head, paired with Ford's PATS immobilizer. You turn this key in the ignition, the car reads the chip, and you are on your way. On-board programming makes this generation one of the simpler ones to work with.
Flip Key Transition
Lincoln switched to a flip key design for these model years. The blade folds into the fob body, which looks sleeker but uses the same Texas 4D (4D63) chip and PATS immobilizer underneath. Still programmed on-board, still no push-button start. A nice upgrade in pocket feel without adding complexity.
Smart Key and Push-Button Start
This is where things stepped up. Lincoln introduced a proximity smart key with push-button start on the facelift MKS. Same Texas 4D (4D63) chip, but now the car reads it wirelessly. Programming moved to OBD-II, which means a professional scan tool is required. No more simple on-board procedures for the transponder side.
Final Generation Smart Key
Lincoln refined the smart key system with SYNC 3 integration for the last two years of the MKS. Your key still runs a Texas 4D (4D63) chip with PATS and push-button start. OBD-II programming is the only way to get a new key synced. We use Ford IDS-compatible tools to handle these on-site without any dealer involvement.
Which Key Does Your MKS Use?
A traditional key with buttons built into the head. You insert this one into the ignition to start the car.
The blade folds into the fob body when not in use. Press the button on the side and the key flips out. Still goes into the ignition like a regular key.
A thick fob that stays in your pocket. Walk up, grab the handle, press the button to start. There is a hidden emergency blade inside for dead battery situations.
Same proximity smart key as the 2013-2014 but paired with SYNC 3. Stays in your pocket, push button to start, emergency blade tucked inside the fob.
Pricing by Generation
Price includes key blank, cutting, transponder programming, and testing; lockouts are $95-$125.
EZ Car Keyz vs. the Dealer
Same quality key, same professional programming. We just skip the tow truck and the waiting room.
Skip the Dealer - Call (805) 790-8162Common Lincoln MKS Key Problems
PATS Module Failure
PATS immobilizer module on 2009-2012 MKS is prone to outright failure. When it goes, the car will not start with a perfect key. Theft light stays solid or flashes fast. We diagnose on-site in Oxnard or Camarillo and confirm module vs key.
Transponder Chip Desync
2013-2016 MKS smart key suddenly will not start, theft light flashing. Usually right after a fob battery swap or critically low battery. The transponder lost sync with PATS. A quick OBD-II relearn with our scan tool fixes it, typically under 20 minutes.
Smart Key Battery Drain
Owners think the MKS has a dead battery when the real culprit is the smart key fob inside the car. On 2013-2016 the proximity loop keeps pinging the fob, draining the vehicle battery. Fix: do not leave the fob in the car. Towed in Simi Valley? We verify.
Key Fob Button Wear
We check the membrane first on any 2009-2016 MKS fob with a dead lock, unlock, or trunk button. Almost always the rubber membrane underneath wearing through, not electronics. Shell swap sometimes fixes it. Sometimes whole fob needs replacing. We carry both.
Can You Program a Key Yourself?
You can program the remote buttons yourself using Ford's 8-cycle ignition procedure. But the transponder chip, the part that actually lets the car start, requires professional programming. We handle that on-site.
If you have two working smart keys, you can add a third key's remote and proximity functions using the center console pocket procedure. The transponder still needs a professional scan tool. Without two working keys, call us.
Same deal as 2011-2012. Two existing working keys let you pair remote functions on a new fob. Transponder programming requires OBD-II access with a professional tool. No shortcuts on this one.
You can pair remote functions if you already have two programmed keys. Full transponder programming requires Ford IDS-compatible equipment through the OBD-II port. We bring that equipment to you.
How It Works
Call or Text Us
Reach us at (805) 790-8162. Tell us your MKS year and what happened.
We Drive to You
Wherever you are in Ventura County, from Thousand Oaks to Ventura to Moorpark, we come to your location.
Cut and Program Your Key
We cut your MKS key blank on-site and program the Texas 4D transponder chip to your PATS system using Autel IM608 or VVDI.
Related Services
Did You Know?
Back in the mid-1990s, Ford introduced the Passive Anti-Theft System, known as PATS, across its lineup including Lincoln. It was revolutionary at the time and reduced theft rates by over 70% on Ford platforms. Your Lincoln MKS still uses a descendant of that same system, making it one of the longest-running immobilizer architectures in the American auto industry.
KEY REPLACEMENT ACROSS ALL OF VENTURA COUNTY
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Lincoln Key Demo
See a Lincoln proximity fob programmed through the PATS system.
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