
Fitment check
Not sure this tool fits your vehicle?
Ask the assistant: it checks this listing against your make, model, year and market, and tells you when it cannot confirm.
The Lishi FO38 is the eight-cut Ford tool for ignition and door locks. It is listed for Ford, F-150 Raptor, Edge, Explorer and other models, with flat milling, two tracks and a 1–8 tool space in a 90 g body.
Ford has several keyway families. FO38, HU101, HU198 and FORD2021 are not interchangeable, and the cut count is the quickest way to tell them apart.
Which locks this tool fits
Check the key: eight cuts points toward FO38, while ten cuts points toward HU101 or HU198.
- FO38 pick and decoder: this listing, for ignition and door locks.
- FO38 Key Reader: a separate listing for reading without picking.
- Newer Ford: confirm whether the application is HU198/FORD2017 or FORD2021.
How it compares
| Tool | Keyway | Use it when |
|---|---|---|
| FO38 (this page) | 8-cut, flat milling | Older Ford ignition and door locks |
| FO38 Key Reader | 8-cut | Reading without picking |
| HU101 | 10-cut | Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover and Mustang |
| HU198/FORD2017 | 10-cut | 2018+ Focus and newer Ford |
In practice
Older F-150, Edge and Explorer ignition or door locks are the typical job. The eight-position flat-milling keyway reads quickly; the delay is usually confirming that the vehicle is FO38 and not a ten-cut HU101 or HU198 application. Keep the FO38 and the ten-cut Ford tools separated in the kit — they look similar at a glance.
Decode-then-cut workflow
- Confirm the keyway on the key head or cylinder face. Do not infer it from the vehicle badge.
- Insert and tension. Match the tool to the lock position you are working on.
- Read every position as the pins set, and write the depths down before removing the tool.
- Cut the key with the correct blank and a key machine or the factory cutter pliers.
- Test and record. Try the key, then keep the depth reading for the next job on that vehicle.
Common mistakes
- Ordering FO38 for a ten-cut Ford keyway.
- Mixing up the FO38 pick/decoder with the FO38 Key Reader listing.
- Assuming every F-150 or Explorer uses the same keyway.
What this tool does not do
It works the mechanical lock. It does not program immobilisers, clone transponders or bypass electronic security. If the vehicle has no exposed mechanical keyway at the position you need, this tool has nothing to read.
Who it is for
Professional automotive locksmiths and technicians who already work with a tension-and-read method. If you are new to Lishi tools, practise on a removed cylinder before using it on a customer vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between FO38 and HU101?
FO38 is an eight-cut keyway for older Ford ignition and door locks; HU101 is a ten-cut keyway for Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover and Mustang applications.
Does it cover ignition and door?
Yes, both positions are listed.
What is the FO38 Key Reader?
A separate listing for reading the keyway without picking. Confirm which function you need before ordering.
Can I cut a key from the decode?
Yes, with the correct blank and a cutter.
Related tools
For ten-cut Ford work use HU101 or HU198/FORD2017; for the newer Ford applications use FORD2021. The tool finder lists the family.
Buying guide & support
Ordering, Shipping and Aftercare
Buying the right tool
Match the keyway code in the title to the vehicle or lock you are working on. The cut number (5-cut, 8-cut, 10-cut) describes the bitting geometry, not tool quality.
Shipping
Orders are dispatched within 48 hours. Delivery typically takes 3–7 business days depending on destination, with tracking provided for every shipment.
Returns
Return unused items in original packaging within 30 days of delivery. Refunds are issued to the original payment method within 3–7 business days of inspection.
The product title states the keyway and the vehicle families it is built for. Because one brand can use several keyways across model years, confirm year, market and lock position before ordering — contact us if you are unsure.
Package contents are listed in the “In the box” section when the supplier provides them. Tools are supplied in the manufacturer’s packaging with the decoding card where applicable.
Yes. We ship worldwide with tracked courier services. Shipping options and costs are shown at checkout once your address is entered.

