the stering wheel is locked up. i have played around with it for a while but with no luck.
2007-02-06 12:24:50 · 16 answers · asked by onebadpenguin13 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ Ford
I had the same problem with my 2003 Focus. The mechanic told me that they are prone to having the tumblers in the starter just break. He also said that the Mexican assembled ones were more prone to it. Check you VIN number (usually on the registration) but no matter what, most likely you'll have to have it towed to a dealership, where they will have to drill it out and replace the tumbler. Count on a few hundred bucks being payed out.
2007-02-06 12:29:46 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
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2016-12-25 19:41:02 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I just had this happen. Mine was a 2000 ZX3 which was made in Mexico so the guy who mentioned Mexico may be right. BTW, I have 86000 on this car and it is very reliable!
My key was only able to move between run and start. I could not move it to the off position. I could, however, remove it from the on position. I has to stall the engine using the clutch to stop the engine.
While I thought about what to do I disconnected the battery since it was stuck in on and using electricity. The next day I decided to drive it to the dealer but it would not start. The problem was with the PATS system (passive anti-theft) which "reads" a security code on the key. After talking to some friends I tried a new sequence of reattaching the battery with the key out instead of in the tumbler in the on position. This allowed the PATS to work and the vehicle started.
I drove it to the dealer and had it fixed. I can't remember the cost but I think it was around $100.
If you are handy you can but a "tumbler kit" from Ford for a lot less. I saw the instructions in a service manual and they were pretty straightforward. I would have done it if i didn't need the car right away.
2007-02-06 14:53:44 · answer #3 · answered by helpme 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try moving the steering wheel from side to side while you try to turn the key. If this doesn't work, tow it to a dealer, and I hope you have an extended warranty. The ignition locks tend to wear out and become unusable. I drive an '01 Focus, and had to get this fixed about 2 years ago, so it sounds like it might be your turn. Also, check with the dealer - there may be a recall for this, or Ford may pick up some of the cost, since its such a common problem (you are the 4th person I've come across recently with this problem.)
Good luck.
2007-02-06 15:06:17 · answer #4 · answered by Me 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced. This is an extremely common problem on these cars. The new lock cylinder from Ford is updated to the same style as the ones '05 and up Focus' are equipped with. This repair is going to require drilling out the old lock cylinder, since the key doesn't turn in the ignition. You can try spraying WD-40 into the lock cylinder, and jiggling the key in and out of the cylinder, tapping on the key lightly with a small hammer to see if you can get the key to turn. If you do manage to get the key to turn though, get the lock cylinder replaced at once, without delay before it strands you somewhere. Hope this helps.
2007-02-06 15:24:49 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like you didn't set the emergency/hand brake before putting into park and removing the ignition key. Set the emergency/hand brake and jack up the front end to release some of the strain on the front wheels. Now try turning the key and the steering wheel and see if this doesn't release the ignition key cylinder to turn.
2007-02-06 13:46:16 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
turn hard to right and left while turning ign key dont force key but force wheel. otherwise for has an issue with ign cylinders locking up there is a ford TSB for this concern takes about 1/2 hr and 40-50 bucks for ign cylinders if its out of warranty.
2007-02-07 09:21:10 · answer #7 · answered by I race cars 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Turn the steering wheel to the left or right while you turn the key, what do you mean it's locked up? Are you of legal driving age?
2007-02-06 12:37:36 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
First off.. if you are in a frozen world (NY, colorado, etc..) and you suspect the lock to be actually frozen.. heat your key with a lighter - don't fry any electronics )
If it is simply jammed, remember to wiggle the steering wheel while you try to turn the key.. that usually does it.
After that its time to call the locksmith.
.
2007-02-06 12:28:50 · answer #9 · answered by ca_surveyor 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wiggle the steering wheel back and forth while trying to turn the key. If that does not work your key could be worn.
2007-02-06 12:31:00 · answer #10 · answered by Sandman's Auto Parts 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋