Mercury 1996 Sable Manual page 167

Coded Key Anti-Theft System
If your vehicle is equipped with the coded key
anti-theft system, you can only use an
electronically coded key to start the vehicle.
During each vehicle start, the coded key is
"read" by the anti-theft system. If the key's ID
code matches that in the anti-theft system, the
vehicle is enabled to start. If the key's ID code
does not match the anti-theft system, or if no
coded key is detected, then the vehicle is not
able to start. Your vehicle will need to be taken
to the dealership for re-initializaiton if either of
the following situations occur:
Both supplied keys are lost or stolen.
Only one key has been lost, but you want to
ensure the "lost" key will not start the
vehicle. In this case, bring the remaining
key(s) to the dealer for re-programming.
THEFT indicator
The anti-theft indicator (THEFT) in the
instrument cluster will light for 2 seconds and
then go out when the ignition is turned to the
ON or START position. If it does not light or if
it flashes, have the system serviced by your
dealer or a qualified technician.
Programming additional keys
Two electronically coded keys were supplied
with your vehicle. Additional keys can be
purchased as spares, up to a total of 16 keys. To
program a new key, use a coded key and the
following procedure:
1. With the coded key in the ignition, turn the
ignition from the ON to the OFF position.
2. Within 15 seconds, insert the new electronic
key in the ignition and turn it to ON or
START. The key must have the correct
mechanical cut.
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