How to make a set of car keys for a Lincoln Town Car depends on the model year. Prior to 1998, drivers could simply have keys cut at hardware stores, locksmiths or dealerships. In 1998, however, Lincoln began using the SecuriLock anti-theft feature in Town Cars. SecuriLock is an anti-theft system that prohibits any unauthorized keys from starting the car. Each key has a chipped code that the anti-theft system reads before allowing the engine to start. For this reason, Town Car keys from 1998 and on must be chipped and programmed to match the anti-theft system code.
Copy keys for 1969 to 1997 Lincoln Town Cars at any hardware store, locksmith or Lincoln dealership. If the original has been lost or misplaced, bring identification and proof of ownership to the dealership. Cost ranges from $5 to $10.
Purchase keys for a 1998 or newer Lincoln Town Car at any Lincoln dealership. These keys feature a SecuriLock feature, and cannot be copied. Cost should be less than $100. Two sets of keys must already be matched to the vehicle's anti-theft system in order for the new keys to work.
Insert one working key into the ignition. Start the engine for at least one second, but no more than five seconds. Turn the key into the "off" position and remove it.
Insert the second already-programmed key into the ignition within five seconds of removing the first. Repeat the same process.
Insert the new key into the ignition within 10 seconds of removing the previous key. Start the vehicle with the new key for at least one second to complete the process.
