Poor quality control or cost cutting?

[Mustang5L5]

Didn't know about the ST key fob going away for build 2. How much did the key fob branding really save? Crazy as I'm sure the $3.08 savings was not passed onto the consumer.

I think the Explorer is now the only vehicle globally that has an ST trim level. Makes me wonder what the future holds for "ST" considering it went from being on a few models, to now only being on one. Some bean counter probably got a promotion for suggesting they eliminate the special key for it due to economies of scale. It probably did save Ford something like 1/2 a mil to eliminate purchasing the ST or the Raptor Key, and just buying more of the Ford branded keys therefore reducing cost. Ford currently isn't supply a Shelby key as well (only because there isn't a Shelby Model)

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These keys are available in the aftermarket. Strattec makes them for Ford. With two keys, you can program 2 additional keys, so if you really want an ST key just buy one, have a locksmith cut the key portion (or swap from your other key) and use that ST key as your main key. It's unfortunate that this is what it comes to

Ford, Lincoln Vehicle Key Fob Replacement and Car Key Remotes | AKS

You might be able to find them cheaper by searching those part numbers.