Arent there instructions in the owners manual that tell how to program a key

 

yes

 

You need to have two working keys on hand before you can program a third key
yourself. (during the reprogramming you are required to swap one programmed
key for another before you program the new one(s). If you have only one working
key you need a Ford shop to program any new keys.

'rider

 

Yeap just like they said, you will have to take it to the dealership then have it programed, the 100 bucks should cover both parts for the key, the transmitter you may be able to program your self, some of the fords if you look in the owners manuel tell you how to program it, usually its put the key in the ignition, turn all the way without cutting on the car 4 times, the hold down the unlock button the on transmitter, can't remeber excatly. anyway this probably didnt help to much but there ya go

 

Don't know if things changed between the '96 and '97 but when I purchased my (used) GT it just had one key and one remote. I purchased two keys and a remote off eBay. I had a local place cut the key(s) and programmed them myself. The remote was not a problem either. I don't remember the exact instructions but they couldn't have been that difficult because I'm a dumb***. With the keys. Something like insert key and turn ignition to the on (not run) position. Remove working key and place other key into ignition and turn to on. The key then worked. For the remotes I had to remove some of the interior trim in the trunk and jumper the terminals on the receiving unit (drivers side). The locks cycled then I pressed any key on the remote to program it. Repeat with additional remotes. You have to program all your remotes in the same time window (15 secs. maybe). You even have to reprogram your original remote. I found instructions online for both the keys and the remote. Seems like the vendor provided them as well. I was out around $50 for both keys and the additonal remote. Keep in mind I started with one working key and one working remote.

edited to add: The requirements changed from year to year so make sure you don't waste your money. I did not have to go to the dealer for anything. I do remember the lady who cut the keys didn't want to do it because she said I was wasting my time and ruining the keys (she was wrong). BTW they wanted to charge me like $50 per key to program and that didn't include the cost of the keys.

 

Some key shops sell the Ford keys. I bought one for my '99 GT, and the dude even knew how to program it. I think he charged me like $30 or something like that. Ask around. Sometimes people have them.

 

Somebody told me a locksmith can do it.