Ford-Focus -
Ford Focus Ignition Cylinder Breaks for SECOND time
Marlo B. in Calgary (24.71.223.140) - Wed May 24 10:17:37 2006
Hi - I had my ignition cylinder replaced in 03 and it cost me $500 at Advantage Ford here in Calgary. Just this past Friday it seized AGAIN. This time we went to a locksmith and had it replaced for $165. They commented that Ford just keeps putting the same crappy part in again and again and it will just keep breaking. My lemon was featured on the local news in 03 and I have made calls to Transport Canada and multiple calls to the Ford "Customer Care" line multiple times and they refuse to do anything. Since the latest break down I have contacted CTV national news, Canada AM, W-5 and the local papers. We will see if I get any response.
Reply #1 W. J. Silva (68.94.80.3) - Sat Jun 17 19:47:51 2006
I first owned a 2001 Ford Focus. Ford replaced this ignition switch on April 02, 2002 because it still was under warranty. Now, I owned a 2004 Ford Focus(runs smoother than other cars for the price), but it was manufactured in Dec. 2003. It still has features of a 2003, not so much of a 2004. The switch was stuck on June 13, 2006. I realized that I have traveled quite a many miles on my vehicle, but FORD needs to "Fess" up to the fact, that this part should be recalled at NO CHARGE TO THE CUSTOMER. The ignition switch replacement was at a cost of $224.11. MarloB in Calgary pleased include WJ Silva in Texas on your unsatifaction list on your local newspaper.
Reply #2 Tobias Kaiser (207.236.35.194) - Thu Jun 22 11:53:44 2006
Just today my 2000 Ford Focus ignition broke down the second time (since Aug. 2003 when we bought the car - who knows how many times before) and i'm facing another towing and repair bill which ford will not cover. I used to drive the oldest pieces of sh** and replaced sooo many parts. But never have i had problems nor heard of anyone having problems with an ignition. Fords behaviour on that matter will eventually really hurt their business because as far as i'm concerned, this will be my last Ford EVER! Marlo, if you need any help or support with your endeavour you can count on me!
Reply #3 Brian (66.68.113.242) - Sat Jun 24 18:31:42 2006
On June 22, 2006 my ignition cylinder in my 2004 Ford Focus locked up. I had a tow truck come out ready to send it to the dealership for 500 total bill, and the tow guy simply tapped the key into the ignition hole with a screwdriver and it released the mechanism. This man saved me a lot of money, but he also said that he has this problem regularly with Ford Focus owners.Time for Ford to recall the ignition cylinders!
Reply #4 David R (71.129.175.225) - Thu Oct 12 14:06:36 2006
AAA towing came out to take my car in to have this fixed.The tow truck driver said I am going to save you money. He put the key in the ignition, got a hammer and tapped it a good one. And presto it works great!!! Forget ford...
Reply #5 crystal brewster (71.182.31.219) - Sat Oct 20 20:07:41 2007
I have been having a little problem getting the key to turn, buttoday it locked up on me completely. I read an article where you can tap the key in the ignition to release the mechanism and it worked, but I will file a complaint with Ford Motor Company. What has happened to American cars?
Reply #6 Allen Prunty (68.31.85.94) - Thu Jan 10 09:30:37 2008
Let's organize and start a class action on this... if you google this problem it's very prolific.Even car magazines are noting this problem. I am having this problem in Louisville, KY. Allen
Reply #7 mike (74.71.12.205) - Wed Jan 23 13:06:55 2008
My daughters focus just did the same thing with the ignition switch. It cost her over $400 to get it fixed at a local Ford dealership. If anyone gets a class action into place, count me in !
Reply #8 Levi (164.106.128.87) - Mon Feb 4 12:04:29 2008
Seriously, something needs to happen. my wife has a 2000 Focus and something breaks on this car every week. This specific problem left my wife stranded at a gas station. I've heard people complain about Ford, and this proves everything I've heard.
Reply #9 Sumie (70.245.72.24) - Mon Feb 4 15:37:34 2008
I'm fed up with this and all the other problems with my Focus. Please do your part and sign the petition to get this one fixed!!
Reply #10 FocusS2guy (72.72.133.14) - Tue Feb 26 14:39:52 2008
I've been reading about these Focus ignition problems for years. You'd think Ford would issue a recall or something because it just shouldn't happen.I've really been lucky with my 2001 Focus S2 model. They only made like 450 of these and it's got the European shocks, sway bar diameter, etc. I say lucky because those 2000-2001 models are notorious for poor reliability. Just normal replacement stuff so far. Oh yeah, I'm just about to turn over 60, 000 miles and I've still got the original Firestone Firehawk GTAs. They won't make next inspection though. Has anyone had good luck with a replacement brand? I installed a train horn on the Focus late last year. People really get out of the way when I blast it. It's a hoot, literally!
Reply #11 Connie Pierce (66.227.130.163) - Sun May 18 11:08:40 2008
My ignition locked up as well. I tried putting WD40 in there thinking the tumbler was stuck and nothing happened. I will try to tap the key and see what happens. I too have had multiple problems with my 2002 Ford Focus. I haven't even had it a year and I have put almost 3000 dollars worth of work into it. I will be writing the dealer as well.
Reply #12 Amy (198.6.33.13) - Tue May 20 15:10:36 2008
I had a 2001 Focus and one day after work I was not able to turn the key in the ignition. My young son was at daycare and I was stranded in the work parking lot. Lucky enough I had good friends to help me with my son while I was towed to the Ford dealership. The gave me a rental car and it took two days to replace the ignition...no sweat.Today I own a 2004 Focus Wagon and am beginning to see the signs the ignition is locking. So far, it hasn't completely seezed working and I am able to turn it over after much giggling. However, I don't want to be in the same position I was last time. I called the dealership and was told it will be $225 to fix a problem they created. I will never buy a Ford again! I would jump all over a chance to be in a Class Action suit but how does that fix my problem today? How do I come up with money I don't have nor should have to spend on this? I have the Ford Focus Blues...
Reply #13 Brandon Roche (68.207.217.151) - Tue May 27 12:50:19 2008
Its a 2001, It happened today, and my poor husband is dealing with that, and when this happened before we just freak out. It costs so much money something like $400 or more including the tow. it's BS rediculous.
Reply #14 Kevin (161.88.255.240) - Tue Jun 3 12:26:46 2008
I hope the link above can help someone else as much as it helped me.
Reply #15 Larry (207.183.172.171) - Sat Jun 7 17:12:12 2008
my ford Focus broke for the first time and guess what?, you right the ignition, yes it got stock so i'd try everything but it seems not to work, then I used took the whole thing apart and I end up breaking the ignition cyl and all that so i know is going to cost about $300- $500 ho well!
Reply #16 evelyn brewer (76.30.165.122) - Fri Jun 27 10:17:43 2008
i just used the hammer trick it worked the ignition is ify at best but the car turns over unbelievable that ford isn't covering this i need my car for work guess i'll carry the hammer in the car with almost afraid to turn it off i worry all the time i lnow it's just a ticking bomb and the hammer trick won't work forever
Reply #17 Ryan (66.76.177.2) - Fri Jun 27 16:10:23 2008
I have a 2000 Ford Focus. Since I've had it:1. Engine blew up. I was backing out at my house, and engine pieces flew out all over my driveway. Engine had to be replaced. 2. Same problem as everyone else with the ignition tumbler. The key wouldn't turn and I was stranded 5 hours away from home. Had to pay a locksmith to come out and fix it. 3. Fuel filter problem. It has since been recalled: Recall Number: 03V482000 Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, CONTAMINATION OF THE FILTER IN THE FUEL DELIVERY MODULE (FDM) CAN REDUCE, AND EVENTUALLY BLOCK, THE FLOW OF FUEL TO THE ENGINE. Thats great and everything, but it doesn't help you when you're in the middle of nowhere and your car will hardly drive. 4. Back passenger door handle jammed and the door wouldn't open from the inside. This jam also caused the automatic locks to short out. Also recalled: Recall Number: 05V030000 Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH FOUR OR FIVE DOORS AND ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, A BUILD-UP OF CORROSION AT THE PAWL PIVOT AREA OF THE REAR DOOR LATCH CAN CAUSE A BINDING CONDITION OF THE PAWL THAT MAY AFFECT PROPER ENGAGEMENT OF THE PAWL INTO THE CATCH. THE OCCUPANT MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY OPENING OR CLOSING A REAR DOOR, AND EVENTUALLY THE REAR DOOR MAY NOT LATCH PROPERLY. Thanks for the recall Ford, but it didn't come out until 2005, and my door and locks had been screwed up for years before that.
Reply #18 TB (64.234.161.35) - Mon Jun 30 19:44:30 2008
This weekend my 2000 Ford Focus ignition locked up for the 4th time. I have already replaced it once, had it towed multiple other times, and have been stranded even more. This is a well-known and documented problem, and a recall is long overdue. I am fed up and have posted on nearly every blog I can find, emailed news stations, Ford, the NSTA, etc. I will not purchase a Ford again.
Reply #19 Carlos Rodriguez (216.59.249.105) - Wed Jul 9 18:09:31 2008
my ignition locked up so i took it to Ford the said it was gonna be 400 dollars for the replacement plus 108$ dollars an hour for them to do it unbelieveable forget ford
Reply #20 paulo rocha (89.214.179.61) - Fri Jul 11 11:56:52 2008
Same problem over here (amongst others). I am portuguese and I got my Focus in 2001. Approx. 2 years later I had to replace its ignition and key. Guess what... 2 years and 2 months was the time the new one lasted. Ford just spits on your face and charges me again for a new one, which is obviously exactly the same faulty system/alloy. I will buy a FIAT, I will buy a SKODA, but I will never buy a Ford again!
Reply #21 Sandra (204.58.223.228) - Thu Jul 24 11:48:15 2008
FORD STANDS FOR FIX OR REPAIR DAILY....IT IS A WHOLE BUNCH OF BS WITH IT'S MAKE AND MODELS
Reply #22 Egor Kravchuk (71.133.92.239) - Wed Jul 30 00:30:09 2008
Hi, Mi dads @!#$%@! 2002 ford focus did the same thing on Jully 28 whille at work, butt the funnny thins is that it ceiced wen the stering weel was looked so now u cant move the car just u can go forward and reverse butt cant steer for crap....? So he took apart the cover stuff under da weel and now u can start it with a minus screew driver lolz butt u cant move the weel cuzz its loked We contacted some locksmith and he said hell do it for 200$$$$$ to replace itso yeah hoewer said ford is goood Maybe there trucks are good butt all ford stands for is FORD- EEFFEED OR RAPED DAILLY SO NEXT TIME FORD MAKE SHURE U PUTT IN BETER IGNITION CYLINDERS
Reply #23 wayne (24.192.244.62) - Mon Aug 4 13:14:11 2008
used hammer trick it worked hit end of key 2 or 3 times and it worked go figure
Reply #24 John Robertson (67.185.155.18) - Mon Aug 4 15:56:57 2008
Wow. This is truly unbelievable. Our 2004 Focus just had its ignition cylinder lock up two days ago, and I am pondering what to do for a repair. It's difficult to justify paying for a new ignition cylinder installed by my dealer, given that everyone reports that the problem only reoccurs! In the meantime, tapping the key with a small wrench frees up the switch so that I can start the car. For now! It is truly outrageous that Ford has not issued a recall for this pervasive problem.
Reply #25 Dan Peterson (206.159.149.67) - Tue Aug 5 17:43:31 2008
My 2002 Ford Focus had been tricky to start for about a year, the other day it finally became impossible to turn the key. I was stranded about 100 miles from home. I found this forum and tried the hammer trick, I slowly worked up the hit strength until the key was able to turn. This trick saved me the pain and anguish along with the cost of a tow and repair. However, if I remove the key I must use the hammer again after reinsertion...I decided to leave the key in the ignition out of fear the hammer trick won't work at some point. Does anyone who replaced the ignition system with non-ford parts have any details? I would like to replace this myself in order to save money...hopefully before someone steals my car by seeing my key already in the ignition haha. It is too bad Ford has not recalled this, but what do you expect when UAW et al take away from quality budgets.
Reply #26 Carol Rudnicki (67.85.179.201) - Fri Aug 8 23:00:28 2008
I was given a 2004 ford focus about a year ago to replace my 89 volkswagon jetta that my father had ran into the ground while I was away at college. The ignition started locking up in the winter time with me beating the breaks, wheel, key, and anything in sight until the car would eventually start making me late to work on numerous occasions. It was fine that I was late because one of my bosses too had a 2004 ford focus and had experienced the same problem and got hers replaced at the tune of $500. As the weather warmed up so did my car to starting. then faithfully two months ago one of the worst days of my life occurred. my friend called me from the mall parking lot stating that her, in her little ford focus had hit a pedestrian. shattered windshield was the only thing damaged there. hours later after my shift i went to drive her home in my focus when of course the key wouldn't turn. it took my gay friend and a size 10 high heel shoe, beating it into the ignition to finally bring my car back to life. true story. now i battle every morning with my key that is now bent thanks to the high heel to get it to turn and let me be on my way. please just recall the car already!
Reply #27 Carol Rudnicki (67.85.179.201) - Fri Aug 8 23:03:05 2008
i too leave my key in the ignition when i don't feel like fighting with the car which is most of the time with a coat over the wheel... in august it looks a little silly with a winter coat on the wheel but it makes me feel a little better.
Reply #28 David P. (74.128.96.5) - Wed Aug 13 16:04:01 2008
I have a 2003 and the ignition first locked up about 1yr ago, after about 45 min. of wiggle the the key just turned and started, did the same thing again about 5 mo. later, again left stranded for about 45 min. The 3rd time happened a few months ago and after about 1 1/2 hours I just banged the key real hard with the palm of my hand and it turned. Get in to go to work this morning it wont turn at all I finally get a hammer and got it started. I took it to a locksmith he replaced it for about $100.00 He told me that when they first started repairing these that he did almost 50 the first month.
Reply #29 MIKE LANGE (75.63.116.145) - Tue Aug 19 14:19:30 2008
JUST PICKED UP A FORD 2002 ESCORT FOR MY SON FOR SCHOOL AND CAN YOU BELEIVE IT THE IGNITION LOCKED UP ON HIM. I WISH I HAS READ ALL YOUR COMPLAINTS PRIOR TO MY PURCHASE. COUNT ME IN FOR ANY GROUP COMPAINT TO FORD FOR A RECALL.
Reply #30 James (76.160.85.138) - Thu Aug 21 16:13:47 2008
Just got back from being stranded in the woods because my 2001 Ford Focus decided that my key wasn't good enough. As mentioned above, the steering wheel locked and the key would not turn. I called AAA and they said I needed a whole new ( something, something). I tried WD40, I tried putting it in neutral, I tried everything and was stuck!!! DAMN YOU FORD
Reply #31 AM (75.132.13.41) - Fri Aug 22 17:23:34 2008
Daughter's 2002 ESCAPE XLS was parked for a week on the driveway. Now neither or her dealer issued keys will turn in the ignition. Steering wheel is completely locked. Dealer gave the "try wiggling the steering wheel while you try to turn the ignition" tip. It does not work, as the wheel is more locked up than the ignition! (That can wiggle a bit.) READ ABOUT THE FOCUS IGNITION PROBLEMS AND READ ALL OF THE ABOVE. THANK YOU THANK YOU. I USED A RUBBER MALLET, AND AFTER A FEW HITS ON THE KEY, IT STILL DIDN'T WORK, BUT IT SEEMED THAT THE KEY WAS HARDER TO GET IN AND OUT. I MOVED THE KEY IN AND OUT SEVERAL TIMES TO MAKE SURE IT WASN'T CATCHING. I TRIED THE WIGGLE THE KEY A LOT. NO LUCK. I TRIED THE WIGGLE THE KEY WHILE WIGGLING THE PARK/DRIVE/ETC LEVER. NO LUCK. THEN I HAD THE BRAINSTORM TO USE THE MALLET ON THE STEERING COLUMN UNDER THE INGNITION KEY SLOT AREA. !!!!!!!!!!!!! STEERING WHEEL UNLOCKED, AND THEN THE KEY COULD TURN IN THE IGNITION, TOO! TRIED SEVERAL TIMES, KEY CONTINUED TO WORK. I left the mallet in the Escape. Is this a steering column or ignition problem??
Reply #32 Kamryn (70.143.69.78) - Sun Aug 24 21:30:26 2008
I bought my 2000 Focus in 2005 and I have been really happy with it. I had to replace the timing belt when I broke down on the side of the highway, but she had 125k miles on her. Then, yesterday, my ignition locked up just before I left for work. I was frantic trying to figure out how and where to tow the car and how I could work it around my school and work schedules until I read these posts! Thank you. I tapped the key with a hammer, and voila! I'm sure it's a band-aid fix, but it works for now. In the meantime, I signed the ignition recall petition, and permanently stowed a pocket-sized hammer in my glove box.
Reply #33 Ed (64.12.117.68) - Sat Aug 30 17:06:57 2008
Thank god I read this first. My daughter got stuck with the same problem. I had to pick her up and leave the car in the parking lot. I contacted a mechanic and he told me to just break the ignition and bring it to him for replacement. Then I was goin to have it towed. Just before that I decided to try and read up on it. The old hammer came through. Thank you everyone, you saved me a lot of expense. There are to many people with the same problem. Count me in on any actions. Thanks again. Ed
Reply #34 Ina (205.188.117.68) - Mon Sep 8 20:06:20 2008
I have a 2005 Ford Focus. My key is stuck in the ignition as well. I can turn the car on. I can turn it off. I just can't pull the key out. I tried messing with the steering wheel. I tried pushing the gear shift further into park, thinking that perhaps it isn't locking into the park position. I did the hammer thing. Nothing is working. The key just isn't lining up with the arrow to release the key. I soooo don't want to have to spend that much money to get the key out. I just left the key in the ignition and locked it with my remote. Ugh!
Reply #35 Nell (64.108.171.15) - Fri Sep 12 07:29:43 2008
Same problem here. My key will not come out. The car turns on and off but the key is stuck! Looks like people here have saved money by going to a locksmith and NOT Ford. I will try that.
Reply #36 Steve (97.88.192.56) - Fri Sep 12 21:53:36 2008
Here's another one. We cannot get the key out of my wife's 2005 Focus Wagon. Thank you for the earlier advice of tapping it with a hammer. I will try that.I'm all for joining a push to force Ford to admit the problem, through a class action or whatever means necessary.
Reply #37 Garystrk (72.174.11.182) - Sat Sep 20 20:02:22 2008
Go to www.wiki.answers.com and enter focus ignition switch and you can find out how to repair the switch by yourself, it's really pretty easy.They say the permanent fix is to put in an ingnition swith lock cylinder form a Ford Explorer.
Reply #38 christopher adams (66.176.96.196) - Sun Sep 21 13:26:07 2008
i have a 2004 focus and my daughter have a 2002 focus and both of them have had problems with ignition switch i wonder who need to be contacted with the issues and get ford moving .
Reply #39 Paula Doss (151.199.15.43) - Fri Sep 26 19:46:44 2008
well, well, well. My 2000 focus ignition locked up on my today. when the dealer tried to get the key out (I was able to get it in and out with no problem, it just wouldnt turn) they broke the key off so to be sure they didnt accidently lock the doors they put the drivers side window down and now it won't go back us and they tell me I now need a new window regulator as well. $600 bucks that I dont have. Wish I had known about the hammer trick.
Reply #40 Fred (67.67.75.215) - Tue Sep 30 13:49:21 2008
Same strange problem. Key wouldn't turn in the ignition on my 2004 model. The tow truck guy was able to turn it with a little force, but by the time we made the short trip to the auto shop the key again wouldn't turn in the ignition when he tried. The auto shop is now having more trouble replacing it than they had thought; they said they're trying not to damage the steering column in the process. I like my Focus, but I'm a little put out to discover that this is an incredibly common problem. The hammer trick may work, but I don't believe I should have to carry a hammer around just to get my car started. If this were an isolated problem I'd have an easy time getting over the $500 total charges to get this repaired, but the fact that this is a widespread problem it's hard not to be even a little put out. This might convince me to buy foreign next time, as I've been tempted to for several years.
Reply #41 Arlene (208.110.34.209) - Tue Oct 7 00:09:19 2008
My ignition locked up for the first time, it is a 2003 ford focus wagon. Is there any recalls for these ignitions.
Reply #42 Richard (130.13.166.96) - Thu Oct 9 00:27:06 2008
My problem is slightly different from most of yours. Key won't come out. It turns fine, but won't come out tof the cylinder. Sometimes it helps to park on a hill, but not tonight. This is the only problem I've had so far with the '05 Focus. I've been told it will cost a lot to fix. anybody else havethe same problem?
Reply #43 nix (24.122.76.176) - Thu Oct 9 13:38:10 2008
hi my of focus have broke(same as all of you)the ignition key is stuck and i buy one from ebay but i dunno how to take off the ignition system i started to think a mace or a axe will do the job!! please somebody tell me how i take off this igntion. is it a way to take it off without taking all the steering off?!?! thank to all off you
Reply #44 Mark (71.226.105.231) - Sun Oct 12 15:10:26 2008
Ive been having some problems for a while now with the ignition cylinder. For a couple of days at a time id have to hit the key with the side of my hand in order it to turn. Then the problem would go away for a while and come back. Yesterday the ignition cylinder completely seized up and the hammer trick no longer worked! $500 plus $65 for the tow! This is complete and total BS. I will never own another ford or American made automobile again.If youre already having this problem and are using the hammer trick, dont wait for the cylinder to completely seize up on you. The cost of the repair is more expensive if you factor in the drilling out of the cylinder and the tow.
Reply #45 Mitch Goldstein (207.200.116.66) - Sat Oct 18 13:16:54 2008
So my car is sitting in front of Wells Fargo Bank. After reading your other comments regarding our ford Focus I am now going to do two things. One: Try the hammer and the key "sledge-a-matic" trick 2. Put a for sale sign on the car and look for the other sucker that is born every minute. I am not as dumd as I act, or am I. Robbing Wells Fargo without a get-a-way car is definitely out of the question.
Reply #46 Mitch Goldstein (207.200.116.66) - Sat Oct 18 19:14:46 2008
The sledge - a - Matic It worked. thank God for the internet and our ability to comunicate these problems. My wife was so impressed that I saved the ignition repair money that she bought me lunch. You know.... at first I thought It was a conspiricy and that "THEY" were out to get me. How else could my ignition "JUST" feeeze up . Or maybe my bad karma from an eailier life was playing catch up . well anyway it worked so now I carry a hammer where ever I go.
Reply #47 Kelly Smith (97.96.81.182) - Mon Oct 20 03:53:17 2008
My car is stuck too. I was in a panick. You know what? That hammer trick worked. At least I can get to work and back until I figure out what the heck to do. I don't plan on removing the key even tho it will come out.
Reply #48 heather (24.78.240.16) - Fri Oct 24 01:08:51 2008
my 2003 ford focus is doing the same thing thanks to this site we got the car going again but what a pain in the butt why isnt ford recallin g this it is unbeleivable for it to be hapening to all this cars and no reacall for those of u who have fixed it yourselfs what did u do about the chip in the key did u have to get it reprogramed or did it work with the old key on the key ring because i am thinking of getting some one to put it in for me and i really dont want to go to ford to have the stupid key reprogramed if u can let me no that will be great thanks to all of you for all your help i love the internet
Reply #49 teresa (75.175.63.197) - Fri Oct 24 12:04:19 2008
I too suffered from the same ignition problem with my newly purchased 2000 ford focus. This is the second car I've ever owned and I bought it needing a reliable car to go back and forth to college. A little over 3 weeks ago I was fortunate to make it home before my key would no longer go in my ignition. I figured no problem because my boyfriend had replaced my ignition tumbler on my old car so this would be simple beside the minor inconvenience, but we were wrong. We called around to find the part only you need a special tool to over-ride the security feature something or other we were told. Our next step was to call around to get quotes on the cost of the replacement. We were quoted $300 from one shop and the ford garage quoted us $160 on just the tumbler and was suppose to get back to us with a quote on labor, but we never heard from them. A friend had suggested calling a locksmith so we did. The locksmith was under the impression ford had put out a recall on the ignition, but from the sounds of it they haven't. However, to have the locksmith come to my house and replace the tumbler they charged us only $175 for everything, and it would have been $40 cheaper if I could have driven there. So if you think the only option is $500 at a garage you are wrong, call around. Regardless this situation sucks and I would be willing to sign a petition to have ford reimburse us for at least our money even though we lost valuable time and were majorly inconvenienced.
Reply #50 mITCH gOLDSTEIN (207.200.116.66) - Tue Nov 4 19:13:20 2008
O.K. IT WAS THE 18TH OF OCT. THAT WE FIRST USED THE HAMMER TRICK. LAST NIGHT IT HAPPENED AGAIN NOV. 3rd. this TIME IT TOOK ABOUT Ten short taps each time i tried the key and finally it worked again.Ok when is this going to fail permanently and cost the $500 to replace or can I go to a junk yard for a used part. Is there a less expensive way out?
Reply #51 Dennis Phillips (72.190.100.181) - Mon Nov 10 16:05:46 2008
Same here. I had trouble one time with the ignition when using my wife's keys. Thought it was a scuffed key or something. The next time it happened, it just wouldn't turn. It's at Ford now and I'll pick it up in an hour or so. Over $500!! Gimme a break! I started a search to verify the price of the cylinder and labor and this site popped up first. Guess I'm out of luck. I will keep a small hammer or screwdriver in the car, as suggested, in case it happens again. Oh, and of course my warranty expired May 08!! Thanks for nothing Ford. Honda, here I come.
Reply #52 saj430 (208.54.220.25) - Thu Nov 13 08:22:37 2008
I couldn't get the key to turn in the ignition of my 2000 Focus this morning...decided to check the internet before I called the tow truck to tow my car the 9 miles into town and give my right arm to Ford to fix it. I'm glad I did! I read the suggestion of tapping the key into the ignition and it worked. Don't know how long it will work, but at least it bought me a little time.
Reply #53 Joey Romero (216.241.173.198) - Thu Nov 13 11:07:34 2008
So last night at the grocery store my 2002 ford focus ignition locked. I was stranded from 930pm to 330am during this time i called three lock smithswho all quoted prices rangeing from $150 to $200 to fix it some even gave me ideas on how to unlock but noe of them worked at 100am i finally was able to get a ride home from a taxi frustrated i surfed the net and came to find my model focus have these problems i found many people have this problem so around 330am tired as hell and unable to sleep i ventured out into the cold with a rubber mallot i followed the instructions i read about here tapped the key three times and bang the key turned and my car started thanks to all for your posts. No my only question is how long will my car be ok???
Reply #54 William Engle (71.68.202.144) - Mon Nov 24 15:21:05 2008
Ignition locked up, and until now I had never heard that this might be a problem... go figure. The ignition itself costs about $80, I will be installing it myself to avoid paying outrageous amounts of money to a dealership that wants $150 for the part, not including the labor.
Reply #55 james Cook (72.174.144.135) - Thu Dec 4 23:55:48 2008
This is the 4th Focus that my wife and i have owned. And the first one that has had this key issue. 2005 focus this time. tried the hammer thing and just broke the plastic on the key. wiggled the shifter and moved the key. It is stuck in position 2 so at least it is off.
Reply #56 Bob M. (72.192.58.139) - Fri Dec 5 21:10:46 2008
Add me to the list of.. how do I get home from here.. I will never by another Ford again eighter.. come on.. an iginition switch.. Ford should of known that this is a problem.. I will try the hammer trick.. Hope it works.. and These leaders of these big corp. should really pay attention to what the consumer is saying... AND THSES SOB'S WANT A BAIL OUT...
Reply #57 John (98.144.5.175) - Sun Dec 7 11:59:10 2008
My son had the same problem with the ignition switch. He has a 2001 focus, and is at school and called me that his key would'nt turn, I had no idea what to tell him and I was just getting ready to start work, he left me a voice message and said he googled it, and that this was a common problem with the focus, so the next day I googled it myself and read about the hammer trick and called him and told him to tap the key with a hammer, so he went out and tried it, but it did'nt work, so the next day I decided to drive up to where he lives and tried the hammer trick, and at first it did'nt work so I got a little more aggresive with the hammer and finally the key turned, so now he is leaving the key in the ignition and covering it with a towel. If any one knows how to fix the problem, please let me know what to do, I am very mecanically enclined and would like to fix it myself............
Reply #58 Robin (75.152.111.144) - Sun Dec 7 16:45:04 2008
I purchased a 2000 Ford Focus in March 2008. Over the last few weeks, my automatic doors locking system stopped working. I took it to the mechanic and it was going to cost about $250.00 to fix it. Then when I would start my car and drive to work by the time I got to work the key would not come out of the ignition. I had to wait until my car was warm enough then the key would come out no problem. Then today I went to the store, car started fine the key came out of the ignition but when I went to start it...nothing. My lights don't come on, my horn doesn't work, the car doesn't turn over, and it makes a very loud clicking noise. I can't get a mechanic to look at it because it's a Sunday. Does anyone have any suggestions. I am very fed up with this Focus which I will never buy anything from Ford again.
Reply #59 Cathy (72.185.233.171) - Tue Dec 9 20:12:53 2008
We own a 2007 Ford Focus and the hunk of junk is sitting in our driveway with the key stuck in the ignition. The car starts, drives, etc but the stupid key is stuck. It is evident from this site that it is not just on the older models and the issue still exists with later models. A locksmith is on his way to see if the key will come out but after reading this I am angry that it may/will happen again. In addition, it sounds like it escalates to the key eventually not even turning and starting the car. Is anyone aware of a class action suit filed? Ford wants a bailout from our government and meanwhile the churn out cheap, poorly designed vehicles. The cheaper they get the fatter their wallets most certainly are. Frustrated and over Ford.
Reply #60 ed sauls (75.89.13.137) - Wed Dec 10 08:46:08 2008
same problem with Ford 2007 Escape. dealer had the nerve to tell me that they did not have a history of problems like this. had truck in dealer 3 times in first year with same problem. they finally replaced ignition switch but it happened again!. tow truck driver showed me the "tap with hammer trick". he said that he got calls for this all the time on several Ford models. finally got rid of truck as i could not rely on it and did not want my family stranded somewhere! Ford sure has "big cajones" to deny this is a problem. will never buy ford again, that's for sure. guess they are waiting for us poor taxpayers to bail them out before doing what's right for the consumer!
Reply #61 Laurie G. (98.203.37.198) - Sun Jan 4 15:42:59 2009
We tried the hammer trick today and it works! Thanks to all the posters. The 2001 Ford Focus did this before and it was over $500 to repair the first time by Ford. Froze up last night so we went this morning and tapped it in--turned the key and started right up. Have to do it every time though or it won't turn. Thanks everyone!
Reply #62 Maureen M. (205.188.117.68) - Sun Jan 4 20:29:57 2009
I own a 2007 Ford Focus which has only 8, 850 miles on it.After running a few errands on Friday evening, I drove home and when I turned off the engine the key was stuck in the ignition. I could start the car again and could drive it, but when I turned the key to the off position it would not come out. I tried jiggling the steering wheel while jiggling the key but that did not work. I put a sweater over the steering wheel to cover the keys and used my second set of keys to lock the doors. On Saturday, I drove around for over an hour and made several stops. Each time, the key would not come out when I turned off the car. I came across this web site but was afraid to try tapping the key with a hammer or anything else as the car is still under warranty. I planned to bring the car to the dealership on Monday. On Sunday (today), I drove the car around for about forty minutes and made two stops. The key would still not come out and I just kept using the sweater as a cover and the second set of keys to lock up. When I arrived home, however, I turned off the car and the key came right out. This is my first Ford car and I only chose it because it was recommended by Consumer Reports in its annual car review issue. It's very disappointing and scary to find out that this is a widespread problem with the Focus.
Reply #63 Shannon From Florida (96.228.135.214) - Mon Jan 5 16:31:58 2009
The Ignition cylinder in my 2005 ford focus just froze. Generally, it comes out when the radio is off, the wheel is straight, and the car is shifted between Park and Drive (without the engine running). However, today its not coming out. I tried the hammer/screw driver trick, not working. I have a locksmith on the way.Any ford dealership will charge upwards of 300 dollars to replace it. I recommend finding a hefty locksmith. they will put in a new part that won't break, unlike the dealerships.
Reply #64 Jenna Kelly (64.130.241.122) - Mon Jan 19 15:07:00 2009
try calling ford directly just to file a complaint. the number is 1-800-392-3673. they cant do anything to fix your car but if enough of us call then it should trigger a recall. i just got off the phone with a customer service rep and she said there is no recalls however they are not receiving enough calls about it. Please call so we can get this recalled.
Reply #65 John (72.84.25.150) - Thu Jan 22 15:17:20 2009
2000 focus. 29000 miles.Second time, key will not turn in the ignition switch. Goodbye Ford, hello foreign cars.
Reply #66 James (136.177.164.234) - Fri Jan 23 09:09:46 2009
I have a 2003 Ford Focus/(Ford Suckus) and the key would not turn in the ignition this weekend. After about 30-40 minutes of forcefully banging on the key and turning it, I finally got it to turn and start the car. Oh, I forgot to mention the 30-40 minutes of cussing since the radio does not work, and I make my own music. It worked fine for a few days and did it again yesterday. Same drill again, bang and turning on the key, followed with a good dose of cussing! By now, I had enough of this Ford Tuff/Ford Quality Advertisment sillyness and took the car to a local locksmith. He took the factory lock out and replaced it with a Strattec. I just got it back and I can start the car fine now. The locksmith said the original factory lock was made with very, very, cheap, cheap materials.Did I say cheap...they saved a few dallors on the cheap parts and lose car sales later. What businness school did their executives go to? You would think Ford would have taken advantage of the publics desire to buy smaller cars and make the Focus a decent product. Make a good car, sell them, make money! Instead the squaderend their golden oppurnity and squeezed out a cheap lemon. Everyone else can make a decent car. MY wife's Honda and my son's Madza have never had one single problem, while this Ford Focus constantly breaks down for some problem here and there. Every new day is a potential day for this car to fail to get me to work or somewhere. I will definetly 100% buy a foriegn small car next time. I need a truck, but I will not even stop and look at a Ford Truck. I don't think a car saleman could give me another Ford even for free!
Reply #67 Brian Switzer (67.183.25.130) - Mon Jan 26 22:24:24 2009
Bought my 02 Ford Focus in 03 and never ran into this problem until this weekend (almost 6 years later). After reading all the horror stories, sent my story to Consumer affairs, Better Business bureau and to my local news consumer protection "Problem Solvers". Hopefully this information will get out to the general public and Ford will have to address this issue.Brian in WA State
Reply #68 Hendrik (207.112.81.81) - Thu Jan 29 13:00:11 2009
OK, there are two separate problems here, 1. key doesn't turn 2. key cannot be removed. Both of these problems require a different solution. 1. Key doesn't turn. Lock cylinder is worn due to very thin pieces of metal used for the key cylinder. Replace with a "Stratec" Door cylinder. It is a higher quality cylinder and you will not have to change it again. This is available through an automotive locksmith and you may have to make a couple of calls to find the right guy to do this. In Ottawa, ON it's Elite Automotive Locksmith, 613-731-1313 or 613-762-9002. I was charged $250 for the replacement, however I did not incur any towing charges as he came right to my door with his mobile service. Also the key cylinder replacement did not require any new keys and utilized my existing keys. He told me when the problem was first discovered ( a year after the 2001 models came out) by Ford they blamed their supplier "Huff" in Germany for the poor quality locks and came to no resolution with the company regarding the faulty locks. The repair firm mentioned above at one point was doing 5-6 cylinder changes a day on the affected Fords. 2. Key won't come out. This is caused by a combination of two factors. Inside the shifting assembly is a solenoid that "talks" to the steering column. If the vehicle is not fully in park and the key is not fully off, it will not allow the key to be released. You can remove the steering column shrouding, disconnect the wires on the left side of the steering column and then turn the key fully back and remove it. Not very practical. For this there is no "cheap" solution, you will have to purchase and have installed a new shifter assembly. This I learned from my experienced guy. He by the way, did many replacements of this type on behalf of ALL the Ford dealerships in Ottawa, so I believe what he Told me. It seems obvious that this is a factory defective item caused largely by improper engineering of the lock cylinder and the thin parts they utilized (which eventually bend) in the manufacturing process. If you are serious about getting compensation I recommend filing a complaint with ford and the Consumer protection agency. Perhaps send Ford a copy of the bill as well. Hendrik
Reply #69 Hendrik (207.112.81.81) - Thu Jan 29 13:12:45 2009
Here's a link for the repair procedure for the lockhttp://forums.focaljet. com/team-tech/497529-ne w-ignition-cylinder-hel p.html You'll have to take out the page returns to get the complete link above OK, cause this forum doesn't accept words over 24 characters long. If your vehicle is under 60, 000 clicks, and under 3 years old, you can get the cylinder replaced by ford for free...at least thats what I was told by one of my sources. So even if it starts to get sticky...get it done, However I don't know if they will replace it with the "stratec" Door cylinder model or just another of the same. Hendrik
Reply #70 John in Fort Worth (70.234.234.235) - Fri Feb 6 12:11:11 2009
Ford Motor Company is proof positive that we have all died and gone to hell. My 2000 Ford Focus only has 44k on it because I am a retired teacher and don't drive it that much. I replaced the ignition system several years ago; I was stuck in Arlington and had to tow it to Fort Worth to a Ford dealership and pay, I think it was almost $400, to replace it. Now it is starting to stick again. I took it to my mechanic and he thinks it is because Ford is getting badly machined parts from China, N. Korea, etc. After many years of buying Japanese cars mainly Toyota and having no trouble with them, I took a chance on Ford. Now I regret it. I listened to the hype about American cars were getting better. I want to support American workers, but I cannot afford to constantly be paying for Ford's and Chevy's mistakes so I will be buying Japanese long into the future. It's the only way to get a get out of hell. Boycott Ford, Chevy, et. al.
Reply #71 John in Fort Worth (70.234.234.235) - Fri Feb 6 12:26:01 2009
Oh, I forgot this little gem. One night I left my 2000 Focus on the street with the windows rolled down and forgot to lock the car. Guess what? In the car theft capitol of the world, DFW, no one stole it. Conclusion: not even the world's most desperate car thieves will steal a Focus. Can you imagine if that would have been a Honda?
Reply #72 Fred Ramos (66.182.192.106) - Sat Feb 14 14:53:56 2009
2005 Ford Focus, Key Getting StuckFord service Center says apprx $400 for Ignition Cylinder, but also could be something (dont remember) in the shifter not registering that it is in park. Sometimes my daughter has had to put in neutral and sometimes works... sometimes she will start and turn off drive back & forth ..THEN it comes out. The dealership said it eventually could prevent it from even starting. No recalls yet, although they say it is a common problem.
Reply #73 Heather B (68.40.222.113) - Sat Feb 21 22:30:38 2009
Thanks for all the info guys. Ive been having problems with my 00 focus. Grant it i love my car this is the first major problem besides normal wear and tear on my car ive had. I am switching out the switch tomorrow with my dad. Word of advice. Dealerships will always over charge. Im getting my switch for $40 from Auto Zone and my dad is putting it in. So im making out lucky. Always try to find someone that has car smarts and can do it. Hell more guys will do it for a six pack lol.
Reply #74 Heather B (68.40.222.113) - Sat Feb 21 22:32:08 2009
And in response to Fred R. Its the neutral safety switch. They said that could be it for me too.
Reply #75 Jose Quiroz (70.240.133.5) - Tue Feb 24 20:12:56 2009
This problem has been happening on and of over the last 6 months. Yesterday it would not turn over at all. I was late to a job interview because of it. Surely I will not get the job cause of this. A local locksmith is going to replace the part for me for $135 USD. He said that you have to replace it completely because if you just try to fix the problem it will happen again. He also said that regarding consumer complaints this is the #1 complain with Fords. Ford refuses to recall the problem because it is not a "safety" issue.
Reply #76 Jens M. Fulkerson (98.190.132.244) - Thu Feb 26 12:31:40 2009
I just got off of the phone with the Ford Customer I Don't Care department regarding my 2007 Ford Focus in which the key will not come out of the ignition, and was plainly told that if you don't have an extended warranty (due to mileage), you're out of luck and will have to pay for the repairs yourself. There are no recalls regarding this issue at the time. This has happened before with my previous Ford (mustang). I am for letting Ford sink, and no bailout for them!!!!
Reply #77 jennifer (96.13.109.141) - Thu Mar 12 00:01:04 2009
thank you thank you THANK YOU I USED THE TAPPING TRICK AND IT WORKED!!!!!!!!!!!!! I HAD MY FINGERS CROSSED ALL THE WAY TO WHERE MY CAR WAS BROKE DOWN ...IT WORKED SECOND TAP !!!!!! YOU HAVE SAVED ME LOTS OF MONEY!!!
Reply #78 Christa Tunrer (208.180.90.100) - Wed Mar 18 14:46:30 2009
I have a 2006 ford focus. This is the 4th time my keys have been stuck in my ignition. My keys get stuck in my ignition and won't come out! Yes, I can drive it. But, it very unsafe to leave my keys in my car in the city. The third time this happened, I spent $400 replacing the ignition box. My local ford dealership said this would solve the problem. It happened again!
Reply #79 John (205.188.116.198) - Tue Mar 24 08:56:36 2009
2006 Model WAgon 59, 000 miles......Can you certify the authority whomsuggested should be fixed by Ford if under 60, 00 and 3 years?Dealer told me 36, 000
Reply #80 vickie geressy (75.22.17.161) - Tue Mar 31 15:21:19 2009
Just replaced mine to. 330 dollars at the Ford Dealer. Outrageous!
Reply #81 Fran Solomon (207.155.22.191) - Fri May 1 23:14:20 2009
My 2004 Ford Focus key wouldn't turn in the ignition cylinder. Since I was parked at the grocery store right across from a Ford Co, I walked over and told them the problem. Someone from service came over and tried all kinds of manuevers to no avail, so I had to be towed across the street for $50, after waiting an hour for a tow truck. When I came home and looked up the problem on internet, I discovered about the hammer strike method. Why didn't the Ford service person know about that trick. Don't they ever read internet? Anyway, it costed a bundle to fix. And now I am afraid to drive anywhere far from home for fear I will get stuck with the same problem. But I am going to carry a hammer everywhere just in case.
Reply #82 trevor sines (75.213.45.8) - Sun May 10 19:59:04 2009
here, here: hear, heari bought an '01 focus and have towed it 12 times for recalls, defects, etc. The clutch-pedal spring popped off while i was driving within a year of buying the car, the fuel cap door sprung off three months after i bought it(i used my index finger) and i saw hundreds missing and Ford said "we have not received any other complaints. battery cables, suspension, bearings, breaks, etc. and etc. Ford should pay us back full price plus interest and repairs and emotional distress. they get bailed out??? we the weary focus owners should get bailed out. BIG, Corporate greed and the politicians we vote for who enable them. it has been paid off 5 years now and now the igntion seized up. we have have a '95 accord which has given us no problems whatsoever and i wrecked it 3 years ago and still going strong with 210, 000 miles. Never will buy Ford and will campaign against them until they pay us back.
Reply #83 Sarah Reitkopp (76.91.22.44) - Mon May 11 00:05:07 2009
Wow, this is crazy. I just had to have my 2004 Ford Focus towed to my mechanic b/c the ignition locked up. WTF? This is blatantly a problem with Ford's manufacturing, NOT the fault of the customer. I can't believe they won't cover it and/or fix the problem correctly.Count me in on any lawsuit.
Reply #84 karl ulibarri (64.217.133.158) - Fri May 15 16:50:51 2009
My 2004 Ford Focus has turned out to be a headache. First the car will not stay alligned. The first time i took it to the dealership it was under warrenty and they said it was the tires.I have had the vehicke alligned several times because it still eats up the tires in the rear. The last time i took back to the dealership i was told that it was a defect, not yet a recall item that the rear end could not be alligned properly unless a new part was added which would cost over $500. I did not get the work done and have been rotating the tires freqently but still shakes real bad and eats up the tires. I will soon buy a new vehicle and it will definately not ge a ford!!!! I also have been struggling with the ignition switch, several weeks ago i had to have it replaced, Ford knows about these problems but refuses to fix by recall. Ford can keep their junk, i will buy GM or Chevrolet again. FORD YOUR PRODUCT SUCKS! WANT YOUR LEMON BACK???????
Reply #85 Danielle (69.33.22.134) - Mon Jun 1 18:19:31 2009
Wow...this is ridiculous! I've had my POS 2000 Focus for 3 years and I've had nothing but problems. Yesterday it left me stranded...the key wouldn't turn in the ignition. I had to get it towed and I was told it is the entire ignition system. I wanted to google to see how much it would cost me to get it fixed and stumbled upon this site. I can't believe this many people are having the SAME problem...and over and over again. Great. I cant wait to see how much this is going to cost me.
Reply #86 Kelly (99.185.45.19) - Thu Jun 18 23:24:09 2009
I have a 2003 ZTS and I've never had any issue with my little fucus. I love my little car. Tonight I went to move it into the driveway and the steering wheel and wheels locked and the key wouldn't turn. I was looking all over the internet and found the post about using a hammer to give the key a good tap while inserted in the ignition. It worked!!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
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Reply #88 Belinda (204.234.82.253) - Mon Jun 22 11:43:02 2009
I love my 2000 Focus and assumed after 8 years of driving it, it would most likely begin to need some repairs. So, when the key would not turn and I could not start my car(luckily I was in my garage) I assumed it was something because of age. Apparently it's another thing that should be on the list of recalls that apply to the 2000 Focus(I've had a lot)! I had my car towed and the ignition tumbler replaced for $300 after trying every trick I had found and I had a neighbor who's a mechanic try to start it. I guess I'm luck it didn't happen until now judging by the people with newer models who've had the problem already.
Reply #89 Dan (24.247.79.52) - Fri Jun 26 11:09:13 2009
My Focus had wheel bearing go out after just 3 years!Well, i suppose 3 years isn't too bad, but the dealer wanted over $890 to change them! I found the wheel bearings online (USA made) -link below- and changed them myself after getting the hub and bearing pressed together by a local shop. My cost went from $890 to under $200 for both.
Reply #90 Bill (69.129.254.43) - Wed Jul 1 01:45:10 2009
Here's some help for the 2005 focus and newer owners with the ole key stuck in the ignition an wont turn all the way to remove it. My man Barry Posted the answer. It fixed mine, maybe it will help your problem. The Plastic sleeve around the shifter slides down and causes the sensor to not register park position thus it won't release the key. Start the car put it in drive and slide the plastic sleeve back up and put it back in park, and sensor will now register in park and you should be able to turn key all the way off and remove it. worked for me hope it fixes yours.
Reply #91 Fordpartsguy (75.152.181.15) - Sat Jul 4 20:04:39 2009
Hello all, I am an employee of Ford, I work in the parts department at a small Ford Dealership in Alberta. I will tell you now that Ford Motor Company is aware of the problem, due to the fact that we have had a lot of people that own a 2000 - 2003 focus having issues with the ignition lock cylinder, my self included, mine locked up on me for the third time in 4 years now. Working at Ford I can send e-mails to people that might actually listen, which I have. Now the parts only cost about $133.00 or so, not sure of the labour, but I just buy the cylinderand replace it myself, it's not actually that hard, besides that my car has been a great runner for me as I live 50 km away from work and have to drive it everyday.
Reply #92 Tim (71.201.142.141) - Mon Jul 13 23:00:28 2009
Thanks Bill. Pulled up the plastic sleeve, put it back into park, and the key came out.
Reply #93 paula (97.92.194.227) - Tue Jul 14 22:12:03 2009
the key won't even go in the ignition now. is there way to get the key in to the ignition so I can tap it. anyone have any suggestions
Reply #94 Hannah A,Covington, Ga (74.232.15.46) - Thu Jul 16 14:10:17 2009
Hey, my name is Hannah. I bought and paid for an 03 Focus around May, 09, and it has been a great little vehicle. Well, I had done some research online about the car, and had read about the ignition cylinder getting stuck and needing to be replaced. Well, while in Tallahassee, FL. on the 10th, 11th, and 12th, the key got stuck and wouldn't turn, the morning we were leaving! I was freaking out! Finally after 20 mins of jiggling the key and all, it started up, and I drove the 250 mi. home to Ga w/out stopping once...Monday at work, the ignition got stuck once again..I found the part at O'Rielly's for $75.00, and my dad's mechanic was planning on putting it in for me, but I has a few questions for Ford, to see if there would be any problems installing it ourselves, and the jerk there said, "no, don't do it..you need to bring it to us..we build the ignition around your key, and we make you some new keys...b/c the old key won't work w/ the new ignition..." I voiced, "I guess it is going to cost me 300 to 600, right?? and shouldn't you guys be willing to do something about it, b/c it is a safety hazzard!" he told me that Ford does consider it to be a safety haz, but not to the point of recalling the vehicles, and that it would cost me $600.00...I hung up on him...and the bright ides came to me to call a locksmith and get somee advice...the first guy I called and spoke to told me that he sees it happen all the time on the Focus' and that he could replace the ignition for me for$175.00...so I went for it...he came, did it in less than 30 mins, and told me I wouldn't have anymore problems...and he told me that he does work for the dealership I called, and that the problem w/ the ignition is mainly when dirt and lint and trash gets jammed inside the ignition from pp's pockets and all, and tht the tumblers and wires on the inside get bent and broken from that constent junk, and that the ignition locks b/c it thinks that your key doesn't fit b/c of the trash and all on it...well, I am driving great, and I believe I will not have anymore problems...if I do, I have a warranty for the ignition from the locksmith...so my advice is, do not go the Ford...they do not give a crap...call a locksmith and save yourself some serious money!!!!!
Reply #95 Kelli Strimbel (75.128.133.134) - Thu Jul 23 22:30:04 2009
My cousin's girlfriend has a 2001 Ford Focus and her ignition switch seized on her as well here at our house. We tried what a people suggested at top, tap the key with a hammer, it worked. Thanks for the suggestion!
Reply #96 A. Walton (75.205.68.198) - Sat Jul 25 14:41:53 2009
I have a 2001 Ford Focus. There has always been a little trick to getting the ignition to move it i masterd the trick and really havent worried about it.... Until today... I went out to the garage to start the stupid thing and it would even turn. tried WD-40, tried the hammer trick and nothing. and get this we only had one more payment!!! Not sure what to do now. It was our only vehicle...
Reply #97 Greg G (68.28.169.248) - Mon Aug 10 22:48:23 2009
I have a 2007 ford focus and just started having the problem where the key gets stuck in the ignition. Tried EVERYTHING....Hammer, shifting into park really hard, all of the above... I finally pulled the ignition fuse out that is located under the hood. The key came out just fine once I did this. But when I put key back in, It became stuck again, then I had to pull the fuse again.. Ford NEEDS to recall this!!!
Reply #98 lisa (70.15.129.7) - Tue Aug 11 14:15:43 2009
i recently purchased a 2007 ford focus 4 months ago. last sat aug 8 2009 my key would not come out, it was stuck in the ignition. i took it back to the dearlship where i got it and because i only have power train warranty it is not covered and since i put 12000 miles on it in 4 months they were not going to cover it so i took my car home it will stay broken till my lease is up on it.
Reply #99 Kathy McDaniel (216.255.148.91) - Thu Aug 27 15:09:57 2009
I just bought a 2005 Ford Focus for my daughter and this has happened to me also. I yelled at the Ford Dealership to know avail and this morning they quoated me a repair of $300.00 plus their labor. i will get a rubber mallet and keep it in the car until I can find a way to get the money up to get it replaced. Have only had the car for 30 days if anyone files a class action count me in.
Reply #100 zpervaiz (68.127.86.151) - Sat Sep 5 21:16:13 2009
(I have 2004 ford focus ... same iginition issue ...dealer cost to replace iginition around $300 to $500 . just bring back my vehicle from ford cant pay that much ... thanks to forum just tap it and bring it back .. trying to fix myself ... i found one guy in Ebay selling for $50.00 with shipping. if any body can help me how to install that will be greatfu)
Reply #101 Michelle Corl (24.224.43.143) - Thu Sep 10 22:32:55 2009
I have a 2007 Ford Focus. Ordered it special and recieved with only the 80 miles that it took to deliver it from the lot to me. I now have the key stuck in the ignition for yet a third time. The first time it came out on it's own and the service Department at Bobby Ford could not reproduce the problem so no fix. The second time my battery dies and I had it towed to Bobby Ford, after a new $108.00 battery, the key came right out and they again could not prove or reproduce the problem. They tried to tell me some BS that it had something to do with voltage in my battery causing the key to stick so again no fixing it or even investigating it further. No my key is stuck again and now my battery light is coming on from it. All three times they have told me it is not covered under the warranty that they offer or the extra $1, 000.00 dollar warranty I paid for that by the way does not cover anything extra!!! I will be printing off allof these blogs and taking it to Bobby Ford to start with, then to Channel 2 news in Houston. I will not rest til my car is fixed at no cost to me. Then I will be trading my Ford in on something else!!! Ford obviouly knows this is an issue and has done nothing about it. I read on another blog that California has a class action suit against Ford there. I will be speaking to my local attourney to explore my options. I will keep the blog posted on the progress.
Reply #102 Joe (152.130.7.130) - Fri Sep 11 09:47:38 2009
I have 2000 Ford Focus ZX3 for 9 years and this is the first time my key will not turn. I had read several complaints about their car and not enough information how to solve the problem except call the locksmith and the ford mechanic. Come on! what is the best solution beside WD-40, hammer, locksmith, etc. There is something and the owners/drivers does not say enough information of how to's yourself.
Reply #103 Steve Durand (71.104.229.160) - Sun Sep 13 23:54:44 2009
I had this ignition problem with my 2004 Escape today. I called AAA and they sent a locksmith to replace the switch. The locksmith put an aftermarket switch in instead of Ford's junk switch and assured me that I would not have this problem again. He said that the switch in the Escape is the same as the one in the Focus. This cost $265.00 AAA covered $100.00, leaving me to pay $165.00...Thank you AAA.
Reply #104 rodger1emery@yahoo.com (24.93.149.146) - Sun Sep 27 22:12:29 2009
8/27/09 portland, mainethanks to all who took time to write about this. looked up many inquiries about this problem. i have a friend young no mechenical experiance or funds to fix this problem, have a good amount of auto mech experiance my self but not on this particular problem. used a hammer and newer spare key with a fair amount of force was able to unlock and start the f--king focus. this worked, but for how long? the info provided here was key, keep doing this it works even if the cars dont,
Reply #105 john doe (71.204.73.67) - Sat Oct 3 12:24:44 2009
Hi, I have a 2005 Ford Focus. my key would not com out of the ignition, it will start though. I am going to try the solution that I read on this blog and will see if that works. FORD sucks, and they act like they don't know that this problem exist. I will be filing a formal complaint with ford, and I everyone else should as well
Reply #106 LaShonda Jones (63.229.164.45) - Fri Oct 9 17:45:26 2009
Hi, I have a 2005 Ford Focus adn my key is stuck in the ignition. It will start adn it will turn off, but it won't release the key, the only way that I can get it to come out is if I unhook the battery. But when the battery is hooked back up, I open the door and the keys are in my hand, the "ding ding ding" noise is beeping constantly with no key in the ignition. Ford needs to recall thier focuses, I'm about done paying for my car and this happens. Thanks to all of you that have had past problems, you are saving me alot of money here. Thank you, and I sure will be filing a complaint with ford as well.
Reply #107 Aimee (205.147.106.35) - Tue Oct 20 11:36:55 2009
I own a 2007 Ford Focus and I am having the same problem only I have figured out that the key gets stuck if I turn the car off to quickly after putting it in park. Usually if the key gets stuck, I turn the key on and put the car in reverse and then in park, letting it recognize all the gears. My airbag light was staying on if I started it and put it into drive to quickly. I think the problem is in the gears. If I give the car time, things seem to work alright. I hope this helps someone or maybe someone can tell me what they think might be wrong.
Reply #108 another angry ford owner (174.91.216.126) - Thu Oct 22 09:19:06 2009
I own a 2002 Ford Focus and I've been having trouble with my ignition since last year. Today it just died on me, I spent 1 hour trying to start my car..nothing happened. I tried to bang it no luck either. Just tell your friends NEVER to buy a Ford ever..it is not worth it !The dealer tells me it is going to cost about 500 $. Nowadays who has 500$ to spend just like that !! It's crazy ! NEVER BUY A FORD !
Reply #109 Jennifer N (64.55.157.50) - Mon Oct 26 15:42:51 2009
I have a 2001 Ford Focus!!! and this morning my car ignition wont turn!!!!! i cant even move the gears and try to move it to Neutral. Please help!!!! i was browsing the internet and i think the cheapest way is to change the ignition.they will even re key the new ignition with your key!! I'm going to try the hammer trick but if it doesn't work I'm going to change the ignition. Ford need to recall this issue!! or they going to lose a lot if customer. i called ford customer service to place a complaint. call and make a compliant and maybe they will recall it. 1-800-392-3673.
Reply #110 Mike in Tooele, ut (97.117.42.202) - Sun Nov 22 03:42:45 2009
Wow, I guess I'm some what one of the lucky one's. Bought the car new in 01, now 09 and 170, 000 miles later my Ignition switch finally locked up. Thank god in my drive way. I wish I would have know that this was a problem a week ago, I would have replaced it when It first started acting up. I just got done drilling out the old cylinder. It was easy but scary. The only pain in the butt problem I've had with my focus is the rear suspension. Ever year I swear, I have to buy new tires. I'll get an alignment and one week later it's out. I've replaced almost everything back there and I still, the tires wear down fast.
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