My Car ignition is locked, not my steering wheel what is wrong?

Question

i have a 2003 ford focus and for the past two days i can stick my key in the ignition but it wont budge from there i cant turn the key over to start the car. sometimes if i play with it for like ten minutes it will start but now it isnt budging. and everytime i try to use the sterring wheel or brake both of them lock up.. its really frustrating does anyone know what is wrong?

Answer 1

As the ford counterperson said, Ford had issues with the manufacturer of one of the tumbler sets for that car where after a while the pins would stick and can't turn the key....

There is a TSB to replace the cylinder with a new revised one (the same one on 2005 and newer Focus cars)

Secret to get it to the repair shop:

Insert the key and hit the back of the key with a butter knife tapping on it..sometimes it will release it just enough to turn and get you started.. but when it does release, take it to the Ford dealer and don't turn it off .. turn it to accessory to shut off the motor.

Answer 2

When I read your question, first thing I thought, it's got to be a ford. Check the key and see if one side is wore down more then the other side. If it is, take the vin number to were you bought the car and have them cut another key. If that looks okay, then I would take some Graphite, put a little on the key and stick it into the ignition wiggle it a little and put pressure on the steering wheel back and forth until the key turned. If it doesn't turn right a way keep putting the Graphite on the key and working the steering wheel until it does un-lock. I hope this will help you? Good Luck

Answer 3

Take your keys and your title of the car to a ford dealer, have them cut a new key for you. Sounds like the key might be worn. If that doesnt help, you might need the ignition lock cylinder replaced.
Make sure your steering wheel is not binding in a turned position, causing the ignition lock cylinder not to turn.

Good luck
Kevin

Answer 4

You will probably need a new ignition cylinder. There was a problem with the focus ignition cylinders. Ford released a new cylinder. I own a 2000 focus and Also am a Ford Lincoln Mercury parts counterperson, i have replaced mine WORKS PERFECT NOW. ford part # 5S4Z-11582-BB will run you $99.91 plus tax. Then labor wise it depends on what your dealer or shop of choice charges, but 9 times out of 10 that is causile part of the problem

Answer 5

Likely a work ignition lock cylinder or worn key try another key if you feel the key is worn does the vehicle have over 100,000 miles? I would suggest a new lock cylinder and key.

Answer 6

try moving your steering wheel back and forth while trying to turn the key. I get that all the time as i am a mechanic. When the wheels locked, some vehicles wont let you start it.

Answer 7

ford had a Technical Service Bulletin for their locks freezing up in the ignition they lube the tumblers and sometimes when that doesnt work they just replace the cylinder 1/2 hr job at the dealership.

Answer 8

take your ignition key and rub edge od key,both edges on a piece of metal ( back and forth motion ) a few times and try,if it works better have ford make you new keys with the key number on you car windows. there should bea small tag which you can phone in and have new keys made in case of lost keys.The teeth on key might be off a bit, enough for you to have problems

Answer 9

They get sticky as they get worn out. First I have to ask,is it an automatic & is it in park? I'm sorry,just asking. Anyways try turning the steering wheel a little while trying to turn the key.I have an older F-250 that does the same thing.Good luck

Answer 10

First problem, you got a Ford. Second problem, make sure your key did not get ruined.