Lost every key and been told you need to buy two? On some vehicles, two programmed keys are part of the manufacturer’s recovery procedure. On others, a second key may be a recommendation rather than a requirement.
AKL means “all keys lost.” Ford and Mazda publish procedures that require two keys to complete the work. Where that requirement applies, the second key is part of completing the manufacturer’s procedure, not an optional extra.
Call ARD Locksmith at (501) 389-8286 with your year, make, and model. We can check the job and explain whether two keys are needed to complete it.
Two new keys is different from two existing keys
There are two situations that often get confused:
- Adding a spare: an owner-operated procedure may require two keys that already start the car.
- Recovering from AKL: the service procedure may require two replacement keys to be registered before the job is complete.
A spare-key instruction in an owner’s manual does not, by itself, establish the requirements for an AKL job. Ford’s SecuriLock description, for example, describes using two original keys to add another key. That is a different starting point from having none.
When the manufacturer requires two keys
Two keys are required by the manufacturer for the applications and procedures below. This is not simply a recommendation to buy a spare. The requirement must be matched to the vehicle and the service procedure.
| Application or procedure | Manufacturer requirement and source |
|---|---|
| Ford PATS: two-key requirements documented from model year 1998 | Ford documents the two-key requirement on certain models as early as 1998, including Mustang, Crown Victoria, four-door Explorer, and Taurus. For an all-keys-lost job, Ford TSB 01-6-2 requires two new PATS keys for system types B, C, and E. This was not a blanket change for every Ford in 1998; the model and fitted PATS system determine the requirement. Ford TSB 01-6-2, system identification and all-keys-lost table.
Later documented examples include F-150 and Super Duty (2011–2013), Escape (2008–2012), and Mustang (2010–2013). The 2013 aid lists a two-key minimum for these applications, and its PATS #1 and #1.5 procedures require two keys when erasing and programming ignition-key codes. Ford PATS/RKE Dealer Aid, pages 1–2. |
| Mazda Advanced Key deactivation and reactivation through MDARS | Mazda requires at least two keys to complete this procedure. It clears the registered-key count to zero, and the engine will not start until at least two keys are registered. The same requirement is stated for the listed immobilizer-module replacement function. This is a procedure requirement, not a model-year coverage list. Mazda MDARS User Guide, page 67. |
| Mazda Tribute, 2001–2006, all keys lost | Mazda explicitly requires at least two keys to be cut and programmed for PATS recognition so the vehicle can start. Mazda bulletin 09-029/18, pages 1 and 4. |
The Ford year ranges above are documented examples, not the limits of ARD’s service coverage. Mazda’s MDARS instruction applies when the specified function is used on a supported vehicle; it does not establish that every Mazda uses that procedure. A vehicle not listed here may still require two keys.
Contact ARD Locksmith with your VIN, year, model, and ignition type. We will confirm the applicable requirement and explain the complete job before you approve the work.
What should the estimate include?
Ask for the full cost of completing the job, not just the price of one blank or fob:
- The number of keys supplied and why that number is needed.
- The part type and remote functions included with each key.
- Car key cutting and programming, including testing.
- Any mobile-service, vehicle-access, or diagnostic charges.
- Whether missing keys will be removed from the vehicle’s authorized-key memory.
Ask separately whether a missing key’s metal blade could still operate a door lock. Our locksmith versus dealership guide can help you compare equivalent quotes.
What to confirm before the technician leaves
Have each supplied key tested separately for the functions you purchased. Confirm that the vehicle starts and that any included remote buttons work. Ask about any remaining security warning or unfinished step before considering the job complete.
Keep one working key somewhere separate from the other. Also keep the invoice showing the parts and work supplied.
If a Ford still starts but displays MyKey restrictions, describe that instead of calling it AKL. Tell us whether you have an admin key as well as a restricted key.
Lost your car keys in Little Rock?
Contact ARD Locksmith with the year, make, model, ignition type, and vehicle location. Tell us whether any working key remains. We can check support and explain the proposed key quantity before scheduling service.
Call (501) 389-8286. See our automotive locksmith services or Contact page for more information.