Stupid me :banghead: lost the keys to my daughters 98 Taurus. Are these programmed keys? Can I get a regular locksmith to make one of these keys without going to the dealer? Please help!

Your '98 likely has the Passive Anti Theft System (PATS) and will require two programmed keys in order to program additional keys. Some well-equipped locksmiths can program additional keys without requiring a trip to the dealer. I'd suggest though that you get at least three keys made and keep one in a safe location. That way, if you lose a key in the future, you will still have two programmed keys and will be able to have one cut and program it yourself in the future.

The owner's manual will describe what is required to program the keys and how to go about doing it.

-Rod