accessories - interior problem
8.5
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$347.00
Average Mileage:
62,684 miles
Number of complaints:
83 complaints
Most common solutions:
- must go to dealership for high priced repair (20 reports)
- not sure (18 reports)
- replaced the ignition (16 reports)
- insert the key and lightly tap the key with a hammer (10 reports)
- called a locksmith to unlock ignition (4 reports)
- replace ignition lock cylinder (3 reports)
Helpful Websites About 2003 Ford Focus key won't turn in the ignition
2008Dec 31
Focus ZXS 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 117,000 miles
I have had this problem for about a week, key wont turn, so I wiggle the steering wheel, keep trying, finally it works. Today however, the key will not move. I have called local dealer where I purchased the car, and as in all complaints, 350-400 bucks to fix, with the same faulty parts!!! My car is in the driveway and will have to be towed...
NEVER will I buy a ford again. Too much trouble. This bail out money, could have given each family in america 1 million dollars, and we would have all bought a new car, what would that do for the ford dealership...hmmmm
2006Apr 11
Focus
- Manual transmission
- 45,000 miles
I had this happen just out of the blue, one day the key would not turn, no prior no warning, just got in the car put the key in and it was not going to turn.
Came in the house got on the comp and searched Starter/ Ignition switch Ford Focus, and found a blog of all the drivers with the same problem and one solution posted by a tow truck driver, put the key in and tap it, then there you are it works but you have to do it each time you want to start your car. To this day this is how I start my car.
Others posted the repairs of $200 - $500 each time they had the ignition switch replaced, one man had his daughters car repaired 3 times I believe, stating that the part was replaced with another part of the same quality each time and the re-occurring problem.
A rep or employee from Ford posted something to the effect it was the weight of the keys on the chain wearing the part .. I have only one house key, one car key on mine and still switch went out.
2008Nov 04
Focus LX
- Automatic transmission
- 53,000 miles
I run a driver education business so have ten Ford Focus LX. These range from 2003 - 2006. Five of the ten have had the ignition key lock cylinder replaced. Of course it was never at a convenient location and not professional from a business point of view. I think these cars are perfect to train teens with. However, it is frustrating that something so insignificant can be such a burden. I have a 2004 Focus at the locksmith right now (12/7/08) that needs the lock cylinder replaced. I may be replacing all these Focus over the next year with Honda Civics. This may be a significant investment in the front, but I will save face with having cars that reflect a quality program.
2008Dec 02
Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
When I put the key in the ignition and it would not turn, I thought I was some kind of idiot with terrible luck--because that usually is me, especially with cars. I am so sorry this has happened to all of you (well, US). I had no idea this same unfortunate has befallen so many others. Anyway, here is my story... I got in my car to go to work and BAM! Nothing happened; key wouldn't turn or anything. I got it after waking my husband up and making him come outside in what seemed like sub-zero temperatures. It's happened a few times since then, but not much of an issue after a few minutes. Then this wonderful morning happened, and I was outside trying to turn the key without steaming up the windows yelling every profane word in existence for 20 minutes. Between my husband and I, this is our only car for right now, and we are screwed because we both have to hitch rides with others to get to and from work, creating inconvenience for EVERYONE. Not to mention we have a two-year-old daughter that is now stranded at home because we can't go anywhere.
And thanks to the wonderful folks at Ford, not only are we going to have to pay out the ass to get the car fixed, but we have to pay $100 to get the car towed there--and it is less than 3 miles from our house. WTF?!
This is just super. Here it is, Christmas time, with my daughter's birthday party next weekend (at her grandmother's house, far far away) and we can't even leave our house AND we have to pay oodles to fix this damn car.
Anyone who reads this... try complaining to Ford. Probably won't work since the assholes there are getting what they deserve by going bankrupt, but it is worth a shot. And file a complaint with the FTC. Lots of them.
2008Nov 17
Focus ZTS
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
So I too belong to the Ford Focus Pissed Off Customers Group. To be quite honest, I love my Focus. (well not if it does this to me again!) My ignition has been locking for about 2-3 months now and was getting progressively worse. The apex came earlier this week (a Monday) and I was unable to "unlock" it . Like I said this was the worse it had ever been and as a result I was late for work. Not a big deal right? Wrong! For those of you who have families and kids, etc. one needs all the sick days and late days they can get! A pain in the ass yes. We survived relatively unscathed. However, now being Saturday, I've got a locksmith tell me that 90% of all Focus' have this problem! So I tell him I'd like to shop around and I'll call him back. I immediately go online a low and behold, google spits out like 50 complaint sites!! So I call the guy back and say do it. Now I'm posting this fickle complaint on this site like Ford and their stock worth $1.80 a share is gonna do anything about it!!!
Well I'll tell you what. As soon as the holiday season passes, I'm gonna drive my Focus to a Honda dealer and trade it in!
I'd probably be less inclined to, but I have a feeling Ford has a more pressing need (bankruptcy) on their minds right now.
I have always been a proponent of "American" cars and was a great endorser of the Ford Focus. It's just a damn shame how some of the great American companies are at best a shell of their formal selves.
Well, good luck to all and see you at the nearest dealership not named Ford, GM or Chrysler.
pissed in Sunny California.
2008Nov 11
Focus ZX3 2.3L Pzev
- Manual transmission
- 105,000 miles
UGH.
I'm a nursing student, I work a stressful hospital job and really was not happy when my car was stuck in a parking lot in 30-degree weather after making a quick stop before work and had to walk a few miles to get there on time because the ignition locked and the frigging key wouldn't turn. So, after a massive headache getting rides to and from work and school (I had 18-20 hour days already, guess how long they are now), I discovered you can hammer-tap the key and bypass the lock that way temporarily until you can replace the tumblers in the ignition cylinder.
Well, I picked the part up before work this afternoon, the dealership parts guy was a real schmuck about it being that I'm a young female planning on doing this myself.. I frigging asked him this morning to make me another key because this one is worn and my other went missing. He gave me a hard time and said that he couldn't without the other one and it would cost over $300 and hours of labor.. BS ARTIST extraordinaire. So I'm thinking, screw it, I have four hours tomorrow (Wednesday) so I'll just get to work tonight and class tomorrow morning and then fix it tomorrow night when I'm finally free for a few...
Yeah the key snapped tonight. So now I have no key, no ignition, no car. I'm not vengeful, actually I'm usually very pleasant, patient, and caring, far moreso than your av-er-age bear. But the way I feel now man.. I pray the assholes that wouldn't pass this as a recall situation end up in the care of a frazzled vengeful nurse some day. Not necessarily myself... just sayin'.
2008Nov 07
Focus ES 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 31,069 miles
This is a problem that ford should have recalled. I would not tell anyone to buy this car, as this problem is going to keep happening, as when ford gets your money they no longer care.
2008Nov 06
Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 15,000 miles
It's kinda hard to drive to work when the key won't turn. It's especially fun when the guys at the Ford dealership who was supposed to fix it doesn't show up for work so you have to wait two more days. Inconvenience? Huge understatement.
2008Oct 27
Focus SE
- Automatic transmission
- 57,000 miles
This effing sucks. I've had dozens of people try to turn this key, thinking I was out of my mind. I've had a mechanical friend of my husband try and figure out what it is. "It couldn't be the ignition, not on a car this new," he says. So I come home, finally, after waiting in the freezing cold for my husband to come rescue me, and lo and behold (!) it seems this is a reoccurring issue with the Focus. WTF! Why hasn't this been recalled? I mean, I realize that Ford is hemorrhaging money already, but really, are they going to simply ignore so many people? I guess I'll take an effing hammer with me tomorrow, and see if I can get the effing thing started, so I can take it to the effing dealership. Not another Ford, never ever, not in a million years. Grrrrr!
2008Oct 06
Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 160,000 miles
i turned the key into the ignition and it completely locked up on me. the steering wheel was locked and the gear shift was locked. i had to have it towed and i needed to have a new steering column put in.
2008Sep 12
Focus ZTS
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
my key will not turn on my car, I called service department and asked if it was a recall, they said no, I would have to change,rebuilt key coil cylinder $350.00! ford does not value customers. I don't have that kind of money. I will be forced to trade in the stupid car, and to every one out there please do not buy a ford focus cause you will also have to replace your alternator 4 times in the first 2 years!! thats another complaint!!!!!
2008Aug 20
Focus LX
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
Steering locked and key would not turn, Filled Key hole w/ liquid lube and inserted key, tapped on end of key w/ light hammer. Keyed turned but then would would not turn if removed key. Worked key and lock and tapping many times (100+) till key moved every time as it should. But then next week it would not turn again. Tap key routine showed to other drivers.
2008Jul 01
Focus LX
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
we need recalls on ford focus ignition switch its not fair that myself or other ford focus owners have to keep spending money on the same problem that has been reported to ford somebody need to do something about this and soon I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD AGAIN BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT TRYING TO FIX THE PROBLEMS OR COMPLAINTS I REALLY DONT KNOW WHAT'S THE POINT OF THIS ! I WOULD NOT SUGGEST TO A FRIEND TO PURCHASE A FORD OF ANY MODEL
2008Aug 15
Focus ZTS
- Automatic transmission
- 120,500 miles
After sitting in a parking lot for about 30 minutes waiting for roadside assistance, I broke down and called my ex-husband who works for AAA as a tow truck driver. I told him I couldn't turn my key. He told me to tap the key with a hammer or something and once it turns, just leave the key in the ignition until I could get it fixed. It worked.
2008Aug 18
Focus ZX3
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
Same problem, different person. I was absolutely dumbfounded to find out how common a problem this is after stumbling across this site. Thank goodness I was at home when it happened and tried searching the internet for a solution before calling the tow truck and taking it to a mechanic.
The hammer trick worked for me, at least for now. Who knows how long it will hold up. I'm too afraid of getting my car jacked to leave the key in the ignition. I am going to carry a hammer/wd-40 in my car for now. Thanks to all who previously posted and good luck to the rest of you who have the unfortunate luck of looking for this site.
Enough is enough. Ford needs to do a recall or they are going to lose a lot of customers. They already lost another...
2008Aug 15
Focus SE 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 84,000 miles
My husband and I are stationed in Germany and our warranty seemed to have traveled over here with us (Thank God!). Well, being the first and only owners of this vehicle, the past five months w/ the car have been nothing but a pain. I will stat that if you ever buy ANY vehicle, it is worth it to shell out the extra dough for the extended (as extended as you can get!) warranty.
On Friday, Aug 15, he was coming home from work and went to start the car. The key would go in, however it would not turn He tried jamming it in teh ignition cylinder many a times and after fifteen minutes, it finally worked. I called our local Ford Dealership at 8am on Saturday, they told me to bring it in Monday first thing.
Yesterday (Monday), I took the car in, they took a quick look at it and they too, decided it was the cylinder and the locking mechanism. I am looking all over and in my Ford ESP Warranty Plan to be sure that I am covered b/c paying Euros instead of dollars is MUCH pricier than the previous posters have been complaining about. They ordered the part yesterday and it shall arrive by 11am. I have to call then. If it's here, then I drop my car off at 1pm to have it fixed.
It has more or less been a PITA due to having a fifteen month old son and now I'm expecting our second. Last thing I want to do is get stranded somewhere (especially since we live OFF base).
I will say, the dealership allowed me to take my vehicle home and both them and I figured out that if you leave your key in the ignition and it turns to start, then when you turn the key off, LEAVE IT THERE! Take all the other keys off of your key ring b/c if it turns, it WILL turn again w/ no problem. Just make sure to lock your doors w/ the keyless entry and do NOT turn the key to accessory (for obvious reasons of running your battery dead). You will still hear the "dinging" noise like you would if you left your lights on, don't worry about it though, you're good to go until it's fixed.
I don't know how much it will cost me yet. Here's to hoping it's only the $100 deductible
2008Aug 08
Focus LX5 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 72,000 miles
click to see larger images
Complaint Photos
One Solution to Ford Focus Ignition Problem
We purchased a used 2003 Focus in June 2008. It replaced my wife�s dead van.
In August, the dreaded �key won�t turn� problem arrived after work, at 11:30 PM.
Since this was the first time it happened to us, a small tap on the key got the car running.
I had previously searched for problems with this model, so when it happened, I knew somewhat how to get the car going.
The next morning, I removed the cylinder lock from the car using this information:
http://www.mbremerart.com/misc/Focus%20Manual/2003%20Focus%20Ignition%20Lock%20Cylinder.htm
I checked to see if the problem was still there. It was. Holding the outside of the cylinder assembly, I could not turn the key. Tapping on it did allow the key to turn.
I then removed the steel clip on the end of the lock assembly and removed the actual lock mechanism.
I then inserted the key to see if the locking bar would drop down like it was supposed to.
Only part of the bar went down. Taping on the key and working with it, made the rest of the bar drop down. After working with it about an hour, the lock would work 100% of the time. I at least then I knew nothing was broke, just things sticking inside.
The bar would stick up where the deepest part of the key was. I suppose any of the tumblers will stick, mine just happened to be one of those.
This gave me a clue as to what was sticking. The tumblers and connecting linkage to the bar was the problem. I did not attempt to disassemble the lock any further. Major lack of knowledge and scared I would not be able to get it back together. As it turned out, I did not need to do any other disassembly.
With locks, the use of oil is not a good idea. Oil collects dust over time. So I decided to use spray silicone. This would allow the silicone to seep in and around any moving parts. The liquid part of the spray would then evaporate and leave dry, very slippery, surfaces.
I sprayed the silicone into where the key goes in and around the bar. That was the only places I thought where anything that moved would be. I worked the lock for about an hour and sprayed about 4 times. I do not know if less spraying is needed, that is just what I did. I could no longer get the lock to fail to turn.
The major problem with the lock assembly is lubrication and weak springs. The springs work good at first, but weaken over time. That is very normal. These are marginal at first and then get worse. I imagine eventually the springs will have to be replaced. This just delayed it for a while. The lubrication type that is needed would keep the linkage working longer. That is something I know very little about. Silicone works for me.
In talking to the wife, the key worked OK at first, then, started to catch when she turned it. But it would turn. Looking back, it would have been a good idea to find this earlier. I had read many web pages and had just assumed the lock would fail and I would just need to shell out big bucks to the local Ford dealer. Maybe someday I will, but I am hoping I delayed that a few years.
I think I will do this on a preventative schedule. I am thinking once a year, but if the key starts to stick, then more often. The whole job would take less than 3 hours when you know what to do.
2008Aug 04
Focus SE 4cyc
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
I have had this issue for awhile, but usually if I just push on the ignition, the key will turn. Not this time. I come out from the store and the key will not turn. To make a long story short, I had to call a tow truck driver who came out and tapped it with a heavy metal wrench while turning it and it came right on. There goes $55 down the drain.
2008Apr 17
Focus ZX5 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 186,000 miles
I got to be one of the lucky ones my car went farther than the average mileage before this happened. I first thought that maybe the key i was using was bad so I had the spare brought to me well I found out other wise. I got mad and hit the key with a book I had in my car and there you go it turned I thought I was golden until the next morning when I went to go to work and damn if it wouldn't turn again. So I called Ford they said it had to br replace and it would cost me $365. Well I then did some researches and found out that you can buy an after market one and put in yourself (just make sure to do it in front of the dealership) and have them just reprogram the key a much cheaper solution. The part cost about $80 and the Chevy dealer ship only wanted $65 to reprogram the new key. Thank God for Chevy( I will NEVER buy another piece of sh*t FORD)
2008Jul 01
Focus ZX3 2.0L
- Manual transmission
- 82,397 miles
Same story, with a twist (har).
I was stranded by the faulty key/ignition mechanism at a gas station. After about 15 minutes struggling to get the key to turn, I called my brother to see if he had any insight into the situation. He typed "ford focus ignition key" into Google, and was linked to this very page. He read a few entries, then advised me to give the key a few taps ... and it worked.
So, BIG thanks to the people who've taken the time post complaints here.
The problem gets progressively worse. The "tapping" method is becoming less reliable, and I know I need a permanent fix/solution lest I be *really* stranded when it completely gives out. Leaving the key in the ignition is not a solution. Replacing the part with the same badly designed part is not a solution.
So yes, Ford, you need to do a safety recall on this shoddy part. Leaving Focus owners stranded god-knows-where when this thing fails is a serious safety issue.
2008Jul 18
Focus SE 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
I am glad I am not the only one. About two months ago my ignition locked on me, thank god I was at a tire place getting a knew tire, but the tech tried for almost an hour trying to turn my key over. He used wd40 and hitting it with a hammer and neither worked. So he got some kind of screwdriver or something and took the panel off underneath the steering wheel and some how got it to turn over. Now today July 18th it did it again at a gas station and my boyfriend and I tried to get it to turn and we did not have any luck. I had called ford dealership and the tech had told me that he has had in the past year alot of cars to come in to get that particular problem fixed on ford focus and it cost around $300 to $400 dollars. So right now I am trying to decide what to do with this car because I have other issues with this ford and I don't want to put anymore money in this piece of junk. If there is a petition sign me up.
2008Jul 10
Focus ES
- Automatic transmission
- 59,622 miles
2 things...
1st: WTF!!!
Yesterday my wife and baby got stranded at the Stop & Shop in the middle of a scorching hot day because the bloody key has suddenly stopped turning in the lock... She calls me from the parking lot thinking she is losing her mind. So I leave work early, head to where she is, tool around with the goddamed thing, give it up as a lost cause and bring her the 10 miles to home rather than listen to my poor baby girl bawl anymore - sweaty and miserable from the heat. Wasting no time I jump right back into my truck to trudge back to the supermarket where I called AAA who mercifully showed up in less than 15 minutes later (GOD I love those guys - you don't need them often but when you do MAN nothing compares) and have the nice man tell me that he has seen 6 or 7 of these problems in the past 3 or 4 months... Awesome. Thanks Ford, thanks a lot.
The 2nd thing I wanted to say was: Thank God for this site...
Allow me to explain ~ I spoke to the "charming" operator from the local dealership who told me between the smacking of her gum over the phone, that A) she wouldn't be able to get us in "until next Wednesday" which was over 5 days away and that B) it would be $87 just to have someone look into the problem... I asked her if she was sure there was no recall on this serious malfunction and she assured me there was not. >:(
Sooo, in the mean time my wife starts doing some research and one of the first things she finds is this site. We both blanched when we saw the likely cost of $400 bucks it would take to replace the whole mechanism. That was when we also saw the suggested fix of tapping the key with a hammer... Well, with little hope or expectation of success, I resolved to give it a try. I made my way out to car (in the middle of the night I might add) inserted the key and... LOW AND BEHOLD with 3 taps of the hammer the key turned!! We were relieved I can tell you. However, the other thing that we read is that many people resolve to just leave the key in the ignition rather than risk another episode which can apparently happen quite frequently according the folks here that have been through a similar circumstance. I guess we are going to follow suit for now. Personally I think that it is unconscionable for Ford to allow this to go on uncorrected. I guess it goes to show that the Pinto mentality hasn't fully left their old modus operendi of "acceptable loss" over there at Ford HQ.
In conclusion allow me to say that reading through the 60 odd complaints about this it has set my resolve to contact the local news channels and the Providence Journal Newspaper... This is just the sort of thing they LOVE to get a hold of... In the end it may not amount to much but by God I will be heard!!! Thanks for reading me this far!
-Joel
2008Jul 02
Focus LX
- Automatic transmission
- 44,000 miles
my wife was in an accident in her ford focus the insurance will not cover this problem of the key not turning over , the problem is that it did not do this before the accident but it does now , it was a front collision not her fault , ford says that this happens to 9 out of 10 focuses , now can somebody tell me that if thats true where is the god dammed recall . somebody has to be accountable for the 90 percent of sh*tty fords out there . we as consumers need to rise up and not take this sh*t anymore . so ford f*ck you and deal with sh*t . no wonder your nearly bankrupt you cant make a car that turns on.
2008Apr 09
Focus 2.0L
- Manual transmission
- 65,000 miles
I'm another member of the club. I felt like I was totally crazy. Get up in the morning to go to work and suddenly, my key won't turn. Did I take the wrong set of keys? Am I in the wrong car? How do I get to work now?
After fiddling with it for almost an hour, I called a friend to give me a ride. When I got home, my father-in-law and wife had both tried it without success, and I got back in the car and tried to push it with my finger, to get it to turn without the key, and the inside part pushed in and must have loosened something because magically the key worked. I continue to have the problem every couple of weeks, but so far, the magic finger is working. I just thought I'd add my voice to the many complaints here.
2008May 26
Focus
- Manual transmission
- 30,000 miles
Yesterday my wife parked our Focus on the driveway apron. Later, when I went to move it into the garage, the key wouldn't turn. I tried hitting it with my hand, with a hammer, I tried WD-40. Nothing. I called AAA and they came out. Of course, this is such a common problem, the driver also tried hitting it with a hammer. He couldn't get the tow truck up my driveway, so I was stranded in my own driveway. Today, I called a locksmith, who, of course, knew all about this problem. He said this probably happens to every Focus eventually. He installed a new ignition in the car in the driveway. Luckily, because I have AAA, I got $50 off, but it still cost $350 for something Ford should be taking care of. The tow truck driver said tapping the key with a hammer usually works about 60% of the time. Unfortunately, it didn't work for me. I took some comfort in reading the on-line discussions. When it happens, you think you're crazy at first--the key just worked five minutes ago--what happened? You don't want to break the key, but you keep trying it over and over, desperate that you're doing something wrong or that the tumblers will magically click into place. You'd think having it happen in your own driveway would be an advantage. No such luck. The tow truck driver apologized. He said, "It's my job to tow cars, when I can't do my job, I feel bad." See, Ford's even causing grief for the tow truck drivers. I can't believe they won't step up and take care of the problem. I am a former Ford employee and the son of a Ford retiree. Buy Ford has been ingrained in my head since I was a kid. Next time, I don't know. This is ridiculous!
2007Feb 07
Focus ZX3 2.0L
- Manual transmission
- 55,000 miles
I agree with everyone else on this is issue...I definitely think that Ford should have a recall on this part. Its not a wear and tear issue and its out of anyone's control no matter how well someone is able to maintain their vehicle. The cost is extravagant and annoying...but without the key turning, you are stuck. I have left my key in the ignition without totally locking it into position to be removed. You just never know how often this is going to occur. I have tried graphite powder when this issue originally occurred. I have an extra tube in the glove box at all times.....BUT STILL...we shouldn't be having these issues. If someone starts a petition...i will most definitely sign.
I feel your pain- Hannah
2008Feb 01
Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 55,000 miles
I see that a lot of people are having an issue with this so Ford should step up and do a recall on this defective part. The only way I have been able to turn my key is by leaving the keys in the ignition and when u turn it off don't go past the lock arrow but I really should not have to do this Ford should take care of this problem. Maybe there is a petition we could all get started.
2007May 01
Focus ES V4
- Manual transmission
- 70,000 miles
Ford needs to step up to plate and accept responsibility for their defective cylinders!!!
2008Feb 25
Focus
- Manual transmission
- 42,235 miles
I'm so done with Ford. My husband has a 2002 Ford Explorer and it too is a piece of crap! I'm so tired of Ford having significant problems with their vehicles and refusing to do anything about it. No more Ford's for this family!
2007Sep 12
Focus ZX3 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
when the car show the problem somebody toll me to hit the key with my hand an don't take out of the cylinder and that have been working since then.
2008Feb 19
Focus SE
- Automatic transmission
- 76,150 miles
Out of my other 2 complaints this is the most ridiculous out of all of them and will be the most expensive so far, since this isn't covered under a warranty.
I went to get into my car today and the ignition would not turn. It was about 10 degrees Fahrenheit outside and I sat in my car for 45 minutes turning the key in every different way. I pushed the key in very hard to try and get it to turn and I also turned the wheel hoping that would help. Nothing! After 45 minutes I called for some help and got a ride. Ford is saying that this will cost around $250 to be replaced and isn't covered under anything, warranty, recall, nothing! This isn't a wear and tear problem. The ignition should never not turn. I have read of so many of these issues I feel like this needs to really be addressed by Ford Motor Company. If it became a recall everyone who ever had a problem would be reimbursed. Anyone have any ideas of how to make that happen?
2008Feb 11
Focus SE 2.0L
- Manual transmission
- 90,000 miles
Just like everyone else. My 2003 Ford Focus ignition locked on the coldest day of the year. Not only that but my first day of work at a new job. I had to call the office at lunch and ask for someone to come get me. I was stranded in a parking lot. Then I had to have the car towed and the ignition replaced. Total cost $389.44 plus three days without a car.
2007Jan 25
Focus SE 4 cyl
- Manual transmission
- 60,000 miles
I have been having problems with my ignition since summer, but it's been acting up even more lately. I'll try to turn on my car and the key won't turn at all! I will mess with the steering wheel to make sure it isn't locked, but that's never the problem. Finally after sitting from anywhere of 5-10 minutes, it'll finally turn on. Not so fun in the winter when it's 0 out... Lately if I hit the key with the heal of my hand, that'll make it turn. But it is for sure getting worse....
So today I went to Tires Plus to get an estimate and see what the problem was. They said that I need a new "Ignition Lock Cylinder" Something to do with the pins where the key goes in wearing down. Price: $180.00 for the parts, $120.00 for labor. A total of $300.
Then I look online and see this is VERY common for 2003 Ford Focus' I have never liked Fords, but when I bought my car in 2003 I went with it for a few reasons... My step-dad agreed to co-sign and pay a down payment on it, and he loves Fords. It's the Republican in him I think. I also liked the design and that it had good gas millage. It was new with only 10 miles on it, and I've only had used cars before this one.
I always said that once this car gets ground to dust I'll buy a Toyota or Honda...and now I REALLY know why. Ford should have recalled this, but that would be asking a lot I guess.
2007Oct 01
Focus SE 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
Well I purchased this car for my wife because our 2000 Chevy Malibu was leaking antifreeze everywhere, but that's beyond the point. I guess that's what I get for buying American. My wife is leaving work at 10 pm at night by herself and guess what she can't get the key to turn. She calls me panicked because she worked in a depressed area at the time I tell the to turn the wheel she can't. I work midnights and was on my way to work when she called so I had to turn around and get her thus making me late for work. Thanks FORD for costing me money and time. The next day I Google the problem an find lots of solutions mainly expensive ones. I tried the rubber mallet wd40 trick and it has worked perfectly ever since. If perfectly = must use mallet to pop key every time wife turns car off. I call the dealer about this they tell me there will never be a recall because it is not a safety issue. F*ck Ford and its' management for producing crappy cars. I will never buy another Ford. As an aside I own a 2002 Ranger XLT with a recalled cruise control switch. I went in to get it repaired and the part is back ordered until April 2008. It's been over 8 months since the recall has been issued. Guess what everyone I'll be driving a Toyota next time or a Honda or anything else not made in America hell I'll even buy a DAMN Hyundai.
2008Jan 16
Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
What BS!!!! I've owned many cars w/ alot higher mileage and never had any
problem with a key not turning in the ignition. I bought it new, only owner, take good
care of car. Ford produces a low quality product. I got lucky and had complained
about the problem a year ago (2/07) and the dealership cleaned/greased (charged
me $20) but it still wasn't great but it worked reasonable well. It completely went out on
1/16/08. I bitched to dealership that i had this problem before and they said
extended warranty would cover it but still had to pay a deductible of $50 to replace a defective part w/ a new defective part. I believe the new tumbler works smoother
than the old one ever did. When the dealership didn't realize that the extended
warranty was going to cover it they were telling me it would require relpacing entire
ignition.
2007Jul 01
(reported on)Focus
- Manual transmission
- 67,000 miles
I have been researching for a solution and find this is a VERY common problem for Ford Focus -- why hasn't Ford recalled this obviously inferior piece of equipment? Anybody have any suggestions on how to pressure Ford into fixing this?
2007Sep 08
Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 35,000 miles
This is such bullshit, how many thousands of people have to go through this before they actually take responsibility for the crap they put on the road.
I stopped by the store on my way home from work one day, bought a few things and was extremely ready for home when I left. Got in my car, put the key, and hey, it won't turn. So glad I had my cell phone with me so I could spend the next hour getting pissed off at non helpful men who kept asking if I jiggled the steering wheel. Uh, yes I did jiggle the f*cking steering wheel, thanks so much. My boyfriend was kind enough to come up and try jiggling the steering wheel himself just in case I happened to be a retard. Then I had to wait for a tow truck, which happened to be driven by a guy I wished I hadn't made out with in highschool. Then, I had to empty my bank account to have him haul my POS one mile to the dealership. The charge was something like $180 but I found out later they didn't replace it with a new one, they simply "tweaked" mine. From the sound of it its going to happen again and I can already see the signs. Sometimes when I pull out my key, they car is still on and I have to make sure the switch pops out before it shuts off.
By the way, my cousing owns a 2001 focus and this same thing happened to her a couple of months prior.
2008Jan 10
Focus LS
- Manual transmission
- 63,231 miles
My parents drove my car while I was at school and they though they broke the ignition when the key would not budge. They immediately replaced it before I came back from school ( thinking i would never notice it).. They ended up spending over $300.00 replacing the ignition. This is soo funny because they didn't want me to notice the new ignition but in the end i found out anyways and had to thank my parents for buying me a new one because what they don't know is that many people are having major problems with their ignition with their '03 focus and in the end i didn't have to cough up $300.00 from my wallet!!
2007Jul 15
(reported on)Focus SE 4 cyl
- Manual transmission
- 40,554 miles
While with my three year old child, we were trying to pick up my husband at work. I turned off the ignition and waited for him... trying to be environmentally friendly you know! Anyway, when he arrived we attempted to turn on the car again... the key would not turn! We tried everything under the sun for an hour! Nothing. We ended up leaving the car and taking a cab home, as we had other engagements that day that we could not miss. We looked up the problem on the internet and someone suggested a fix. We ended up being able to get the car home the next day by "lightly tapping the key with a hammer, while in the ignition" It did not fix the problem and the mechanic still needs to replace the ignition cylinder, but it got my husband home from work the next day!
Why has there not been a recall on this part or at least why have they not stopped using it????? This is obviously quite common!
2008Jan 04
Focus ZTW 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
Key problem left my wife stranded at work. AAA sent out a locksmith who said this was a common problem. He tapped the key with the hammer and got it to turn and then was able to fix it at his shop for $45.00 since AAA had paid him already for the service call. He changed out the core and we have the same keys...nice job.
2007Dec 31
Focus ZX# 4 cyl
- Manual transmission
- 40,000 miles
I had gone for last minute shopping for the New Year Eve. When I got back in and tried to turn the ignition key it would not turn. The steering wheel was locked. I called for tow service and the giant flat bed did not have space to get in the space availble. He said he could not help me since my steering was locked and suggested I call another towing company for a "wheel lift" tow. The second towing company showed up but this time the the clever Latino tow truck driver squirted some WD and tapped the ignition key with a hammer and "SURPRISE!!!!" the ignition key turned. I dared not remove it agin and just shut off the engine by a gentel turn until everythin turns off and leave the key in place. I use the spare key to lcok and unlock the door. Just to be sure I dont absentmindedly yank out the key, I taped a big red X next to the wheel shaft on the dashboard. Ford makes sh*tty cars and its dealerships are full of sh*tty morons who have absolute zero concern for the customer. Never buy a Ford product again.
2007Jun 30
Focus ZX5
- Manual transmission
- 61,000 miles
My ignition froze up the day before I had to go to a music festival. So I rushed my car to the Ford Dealership to see what the damage was. I'm already skeptical about large corporations, especially ones who have had prior involvements with Nazi Germany (Ford). So I was ready to jump all over the ass of the mechanic and get some information as to why I have heard so much about these ignition problems in this particular vehicle. The mechanic actually ended up being a very nice gentleman and he said he was sorry for the problem. He said he had no idea why Ford hasn't recalled these vehicles yet even though people continue to poor in with this same exact problem. Infact he said that they have the part to fix the ignition constantly stocked. To make a long story short I leave without my car to the festival and as I am at the festival I get a phone call from the mechanic. Apparently, the certain type of focus I have didn't have the replacement part so they just went ahead and replaced the entire steering wheel. F'n bullshit. It cost me $720.00 to get my car fixed and since I didn't have that large amount of money at the time the Ford Company was nice enough to help me with a credit card. No payment or interest untill 3 months. But what I didn't read in the fine print is that if I didn't my first months payment on time then they were going to charge me interest from the beginning of the purchase. The interest rate is ridiculous and now I have an extra $100 charge on my new card and I've just started paying on this sh*t. All of us who have experienced these inhumane business practices we should do everything we can to raise hell and demand Ford to recall these vehicles or pay for the repairs needed. Back in the day Corporations were created to benefit the community and the community had the right to end that corporation if there focus wasn't for the benefit of the community and man kind. If we all stood together we could make some noise. What do you say? Don't be afraid to send me your comments. END CORPORATE! RECLAIM DEMOCRACY
2007Dec 18
Focus SE 2.0L
- Manual transmission
- 37,282 miles
The only reason it was cheap is because i know the people at the dealership and they gave me a break i gave sh*t and got it cheaper i got the replacement part for $85 so just so you know how much u can bargain this is canadian funds so......
2007Jul 30
(reported on)Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
if we leave the key in the ignition it will turn
2007Dec 04
Focus SE 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 29,500 miles
I couldn't start my car because the key wouldn't turn. The problem had occurred a couple times, but I always managed to get it to turn over eventually. Then everything seemed fine for several days. Then one morning I went down to my car and couldn't turn the key, no matter how hard I tried. I called the dealer and they said this was a common problem with the Focus. I asked if there was a recall on it... "no". An now I see from the internet that this really is a major problem. The worst part is that I live less than a mile from the dealer, but I had to pay $80 to have my car towed there. I waited 3 1/2 hours for a tow truck due to the weather (snow storm). My car was parked in my garage... so the tow driver had to drag it out of the garage and up the bed while it was locked (couldn't put it in neutral). I then picked up my car in the morning to discover the steering column cover had been damaged, and the replacement cylinder was sub-par. The key now turns like a toy. Seriously annoyed.
2007Aug 15
Focus ZX3 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
It started with trouble getting the key out of the ignition and ended with the key not turning at all. This was after a deer had willingly sacrificed himself to our driver side quarter panel. So what to do. The car was already at the shop getting body work fixed but now we had to take it to the wonderful dealership to get the ignition removed. The guy with the knowledge to quickly install this ignition thought it would be a nice thing to let the ignorant assholes get some experience in it since we had been without a car for a week or so. So the guy used various drills and had to drill out the whole ignition. Even to this day we have problems taking the key out and if you turn it just right the accessories will stay on but you will have your key in hand. This results in dead batteries and mad people.
2007Nov 24
Focus ZX5
- Manual transmission
- 76,905 miles
The wheel locked up totally and I couldn't turn the key. I saw on this website that people had tried hitting the key with a hammer, so I tried that and after a few tries it worked. I am really hoping this doesn't happen again!
2007Nov 12
Focus
- Manual transmission
- 46,603 miles
Apparently this is a relatively COMMON problem. Not so great when you are all ready to go and your key will not turn in the ignition. Luckily this time I was at home, but I have been stranded in parking lots for hours waiting for someone to come and pick me up!
2007Nov 09
(reported on)Focus ZX5
- Automatic transmission
- 76,194 miles
As a 21 year old young woman this focus is only my second car. I felt a little safer choosing the Ford brand trying to support my own economy blah blah blah and thinking they were reliable...THEY'RE NOT!!! Not only does Ford have it's own website for problems it has a P.O. box to handle customer relations!! I am very upset with the quality of this car now that I've been forced to investigate it, and with many cars to buy in the future..I highly doubt there will be a Ford symbol any one!
P.S. FORDS SUCK!!!
Sincerely PISSED OFF,
Jessica S.
2007Nov 06
(reported on)Focus SE
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
Ford really needs to do a recall for this ignition problem. I suddenly could not unlock my steering wheel to drive my car. I called a mechanic who suggested I step on the brake while jerking the steering wheel to the left really hard while trying to turn the key. This worked for a few days until the tumblers inside the lock finally got bent. That's when I had to have it towed to an auto repair. Final cost: $550.00 to fix a problem that Ford should be fixing for FREE with a recall. This is ludicrous!!! I NEVER would have bought a Focus if I would have read about all the ignition lock problems here! BUYER BEWARE
2007Oct 30
(reported on)Focus LX 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
I was pissed, i get in my car,and i put the car in, and i'm thinking the car was not in gear, but i had to call my mother out to come pick me up, and i had to pay for towing, and then turn around ask my brother in law to pay for., it pissed me off even more, because it wasn't covered in warranty!!!!!!!!!!, i bought the vehicle second hand through a used car dealer ship, so i'm sure they didn't know, this time next year, i will never buy another ford vehicle, just because of this problem, i didnt realize that so many people had this same problem, like this, its a good thing my grandson wasnt with me cause if he was, This Black Sista, would have went off, i would have cussed everyone out because of this problem
2007Oct 29
(reported on)Focus ZX3
- Automatic transmission
- 46,000 miles
I had traveled all the way across the state to visit my finance when my ignition quit working. I had never had any problems with the ignition prior to this occasion. I parked my car, came out of a restaurant about 15 minutes later, put the key and the ignition and couldn't get it to turn. I tried everything. The tow truck driver even tried hammering the key into the ignition and nothing worked. I towed the vehicle to the Ford dealership and of course had to wait until Monday (it was Saturday night when it broke) to get the car fixed. I had to borrow my finance's car to get home and now I have to drive back in a few days to pick up my car. After reading how common this problem is with the Focus, I am very concerned that Ford won't step up to the plate and recall the ignition.
2007Oct 17
(reported on)Focus ES 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 17,000 miles
I have a 2003 Ford Focus and I start having problems with this car in the beginning of this year, the steering wheel locks up and the ignition does not turn on, I was stuck for 1/2 and hour one day trying to start it which it eventually started, I am sure Ford is aware of it but refuse to fix it, I was quoted a price from the dealer to repair it as $343 plus tax. this is my first and last car from Ford which means Fix Or Repair Daily. I am getting rid of this car, Ford shame on you and your car sucks.
2007Oct 17
(reported on)Focus SE 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 63,000 miles
when I put my key in the ignition, it will not turn, I put WD 40 in the ignition key switch and hit it with a mallet it starts, but now even when I hit it with a mallet it'll turn but the DA!%$ car won't start! so now I have to go under the doggone hood and touch the positive side of the battery to start the car. My friend rigged it for a temporary solution until I find the right part(s) to fix it. The da!@& Dealer wants me and my grandchildren to fix the DA!@% thing.
2007Aug 29
(reported on)Focus ZX3
- Manual transmission
- 48,560 miles
I bought this Ford Focus Last July with 17,000 miles on it. I had key problems 6 mos. later and when I called the dealership they said they knew nothing of recalls or problems with the ignition but that it would cost $360.00 to fix. I got the key to work again for a while and then a few months later it happened again and I couldn't get it to turn at all. Another call to the dealership service dept and the guy says to tap hard with your palm on the key while it's in the ignition. I try it and it worked everytime.... til yesterday. No matter what the key wouldn't work and I called a nearby Ford since I was stuck in a bad neighborhood for over an hour. This Ford said it needed replacing but to try and turn the wheel since it was the steering wheel lock that was the problem. No help since they were closing in 10 minutes anyways. I got really mad and slammed my hand into the key and suddenly it clicked and turned. Needless to say my hand is now bruised but I was able to drive the car. Now I am too scared to let the key click back when I turn the car off. I know I will have to replace it but I have never had to replace an ignition on a car ever and i have had cars over 15 years. Is this what we get for buying american????? Ford needs to step up and recall these so they can fix this defect!!!!
2007Oct 10
(reported on)Focus 2.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
Son called at 2am. "Dad, key won't turn". I thought because he was a new driver it was something he did. I checked the internet. Found out something different, it's very common. I wish I could have let him know before he had to go overseas that it was a fairly common problem. I think he would have felt better about the whole thing. Me too. Called Ford dealer. They said it was common. Save your repair invoice. Might get repaid by Ford. Later. I am going to try and drill out the lock. I heard of people getting it repaired with more bad parts like the original bad parts. Then the process repeats itself. I will not buy another Ford again. This is about my thirtieth.
I called Ford. They said too bad. In so many words. I said no problem. I'll just call Toyota. Problem solved. I am considered a gear head where I work. People ask me," Hey what do you think about ---------make car or truck?" I can now offer very helpful advice on Ford's repair policies and the pleasures of owning a Ford. Especially if your brother in law owns a towing company. Or you own a second vehicle.
I have spent Two thousand dollars on this pile of crap. And it is just a few years old. I don't even want my kids to drive it. I am going to buy them something safer and more reliable, like a Corvair or a Mazda rotary. Did I mention the car's brakes? The car is just unsafe to drive. This is the worst car I ever owned. I am feeling bad about trading it in for a new Toyota. Some other person will have the unending bitter sweet memories I have had with this wonderful little ball of joy. I will never drive anywhere important in a Ford again. Which is everywhere I go. Unless I feel like walking home and leaving my car for the vandals to play on. Ford tried to save a few cents. This type of problem leaves a lasting impression. They should have saved on paint or something. I can drive home in a snow storm with my kids knowing I can paint the car sometime down the road. But a starting problem. I think Ford planned the whole thing. Scheduled future revenues. Just like buying Aston, Rover, Jaguar, Volvo, did I forget anyone? All by the profit made by the people they are trying to rip off now. Ford workers, retirees, and customers.
This company is shameless. It deserves to feel the consequences of it's decisions. I just feel sorry for the people that work for Ford. Their leadership is lost.....
2007Oct 01
(reported on)Focus SL 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
Went to start the car and key wouldn't turn. Called Ford, they said that a cheap fix would be to bang key in ignition with hammer. Other wise it will cost us over $350 to repair. This is a real pain in the ass.
2007Aug 31
(reported on)Focus LX 2.0L
- Manual transmission
- 63,000 miles
My 2003 Ford Focus LX started having this problem little over a month ago. At first I could work with it for a few minutes and the key would finally turn. This past week, I tried for about 15 minutes and it would never start. It had finally given out on me it would seem. I had to get it towed to my local dealership. Had my car not been on the ESP, it would have cost well over $468. Wow. I Love my Focus but WTF.
2007Jun 21
(reported on)Focus ZX3
- Automatic transmission
- 52,271 miles
the key won't turn in the ignition. it should be recalled, and i want a refund.
this car sucks. don't buy it.
2007Aug 09
(reported on)Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 78,543 miles
I was stranded 40 minutes from home, in a two-hour parking space. I had to have my car towed home, I am still stranded, and I have 3 jobs that are 30-40 minutes away. Nothing will work, 10 people tried to help with my car for about 6 hours, and still nothing. I cannot afford a pricey repair, so I am stuck trying to figure out how to get to and from work. I paid $300 on new bearings 4 months after I bought the car, I've had it a year now, this should not be happening :(
2007Jul 15
(reported on)Focus LX 3
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
This is the worst car ever. I put the key in the ignition and it will not turn. The car has been sitting at my church for the past day and we are try to fix it. Thank you to the man who submitted the instructions on how to install the ignition for only $50 for the part from the dealer. This will help the person who is trying to fix my car. Since the Ford Focus has had so many similar problems I do believe they should fix the problem on their own dime, not ours.
2007Jul 13
(reported on)Focus SE 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 58,000 miles
My ignition keylock froze and neither of my 2 spare keys was able to turn or start the engine. I was in the hot sun unable to lower my electric windows, my steering wheel was locked up. The tow truck driver said he has seen at least a half dozen of these problems with Ford Focuses. I am pissed off because the car is relatively new and the problem has never happened to any of the other cars I have owned. I am shocked to see the number of people with the same problem. Ford should issue a recall on this problem. I they dont I am never-ever going to buy another Ford. I haven't yet brought it to the dealer to get it fixed, but they are probable going to charge an arm and a leg to fix.
2007Jun 27
(reported on)Focus 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
Mother of three trying to work multiple jobs to support my family. Tired of getting piece of sh*t cars and then getting ripped off more to have them repaired because I am not knowledgeable in automotive repairs and the auto repair shops see "sucker" when I walk in the door. I can't afford to hardly even make the monthly car payment not to mention any repairs that need to be made.
2007Apr 19
(reported on)Focus ZX3 2.0L ZETEC
- Automatic transmission
- 55,000 miles
I got this car in Feb. 2006. In about May I was at a friends house went to leave and the key would not turn. It felt as if the wheel was locked so I tried to turn the wheel to unlock it, to no avail.
Every so often it would turn so I just kept trying hoping it would turn. It stopped for a few days, but then it started again. Luckily I was at home and finally got it to turn, took it right to the dealership and told them it needed to be fixed. It was covered under warranty but took almost a week for them to get it back to me. I've yet to have this problem again (knock on wood) but I've had a slew of other problems with this car. I don't think I'll ever be buying another Ford.
2007Feb 27
(reported on)Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
I repaired the ignition lock on my 2003 Ford Focus. I saved $280 to $320, which were quotes from Ford dealers. This is how I did it.
Problem was that the key would not turn. I ordered a new locking mechanism from the dealer. It cost me $50.00.
First I removed the plastic steering column cover with a Allan wrench. (Two Screws) I did not remove the steering wheel. However, it would have allowed for more room to work.
I removed the plastic electronic key reader from the locking device, with a Allan wrench.(One Screw). Don't lose the screw, the car won't start without it.
Then I drilled out the lock with a 10MM size drill. Took about an hour. Don't drill any deeper than 35MM. Mark it on the drill bit prior to drilling, and drill a starter hole, 3MM, prior to using the larger bit. Be careful not to damage the housing around the lock.
I removed the pieces of lock with needle nose pliers, and brushed the shavings from the lock with a small brush.(Kids watercolor brush) I then vacuumed around the steering column and floorboard.
I took the new lock to a locksmith, and had it keyed with the old key. The locksmith was very familiar with the Focus problems. This took no more than 30 minutes.
I placed the new lock in, and re-attached the plastic electronic key reader, screw and all, and started the car.
Good Luck.
2007Mar 25
(reported on)Focus ZX3
- Manual transmission
- 25,000 miles
This is a major problem with focus' and should be recalled. You insert the key and the steering wheel locks and your screwed, nothing happens. I had never heard of anything like this before but as soon as it happened I started looking into it and found it is a very common problems with these pos'. The easiest fix which is not permanent but will get your ass to work is to insert the key and lightly tap it with a hammer. So far it has worked for me but I'm still battling the other problems and I have lost faith in my car in the case of an emergency I would not be able to get anywhere all b/c of a stupid key problem. Man up ford fix this problem.
2007Mar 27
(reported on)Focus LX
- Manual transmission
- 48,000 miles
I'm a single mom, and to have my car just lock up like that was BS! Thank God, it was at home, I wouldn't know what to do if it would have happened out of town.
2006Aug 07
(reported on)Focus LX
- 63,324 miles
This is the 4th time my ignition cylinder has gone out. I'm left stranded and have to call for rides all over the place. This time it happened when I no longer have bumper to bumper warranty. This is a major issue. Ford needs to recall this.
2006Oct 22
(reported on)Focus
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
I was just about to leave a shopping center (so I thought) and could not get the key to turn in the ignition. It was so hot at the time! I tried and tried to turn the key. I thought the steering column was potentially locked up. Nothing. I had to leave the car (over 30 miles from my house, no less). My husband had to call a locksmith the next day to come fix the problem. The locksmith told my husband that the Ford Focus seems to have a problem with the ignition. I thought that was wonderful. It is now, once again, having a problem (5 months later). When I put the key in the ignition, it sticks (as though I am continuing to turn the key even though the car is running). I have to manually pull back to keep it from sticking. Can't wait to see how that adventure will go....
I am actually also having trouble with the 3rd gear (for the 2nd time also). Solenoid Malfunction--but will post that in transmission issues....
2007Jan 11
(reported on)Focus SE
- Automatic transmission
- 41,000 miles
I have had many occasions of my key not turning in the ignition. So far, I have eventually gotten it to work after some jiggling, and pushing the key in and out. It is too much to get it fixed, and one of these days, it will not work, so, I am looking into trading it off on something else.
2007Feb 18
(reported on)Focus
- Manual transmission
- 87,000 miles
I can't believe this is going to cost me $400!!!! I just got the car last Septmeber. My key will not turn in the ignition, its the second time it happened in one day. Now I have to tow it to Ford and pay a ridiculous amount of money for a risky fix. Errr!!
2007Feb 03
(reported on)Focus LX 2.0L I4
- Manual transmission
- 76,000 miles
It started a week ago, every now and then it happens again. The latest is this morning. Key just get inside the switch but you can't turn it on. I usually just try it several time slowly until it turns.
This is a car that just turned 3 years a couple of month ago. My 1992 Mazda MPV which 11 yrs older never have this kind of annoying problem. Ford should replace this faulty key lock free of charge because it must be a defective device for a key lock to break very early. I'm not going to pay a dealer to replace it. Not if out of about 8 old cars I ever had, turn out the youngest and the one I bought brand new showing this problem.
2007Jan 25
(reported on)Focus LX 3.2
- Automatic transmission
- 15,000 miles
this is my 82 year old mothers car with only 15,000 mls on it and she's just lucky this happened in the driveway and not out in the boondocks when its 10 degrees out.
after fidgeting with the steering wheel, shifter and all the usual remedies for a problem like this for 20 minutes i gave up then went out again a little later and it worked after a few jiggles of the key. to avoid this happening again i taped a piece of wood like a popsicle stick over the ignition in just the right position to act as a key stop to keep from accidentally
turning the key all the way to the lock position and having this happen again. you do have to keep the key in all the time and SHUT OFF the radio but it beats an expensive repair
for now or until a recall.
2006Nov 13
(reported on)Focus LX
- Manual transmission
- 42,000 miles
The car is just beyond 3 years old. Intermittent problem has started to occur where the key can only be inserted into the ignition and it then it doesn't turn at all. I spent 10 minutes at a gas station after refueling trying to jiggle it around to start it up until I finally lucked out into getting it to turn. A few days later it had the same problem in the parking lot while the wind was blowing (-20F). A real nuisance and both Ford Dealers I called said it would probably be about $400 to fix - what a rip-off for basically a new, low mileage car, just beyond warranty. Sounds like something Ford should recall and reimburse owners for that have already experienced this apparently common problem.
2006Sep 22
(reported on)Focus LE
- 32,000 miles
It's hard to explain how annoying it is to slide the key into the ignition and then not be able to turn it. It's almost as annoying as going to the dealership and having them say that it's a known problem that is NOT covered under the standard warranty.
$385 to replace the ignition? Thanks, but no thanks - we traded in the Ford for a nicer car which actually let's us drive it.
2006Sep 18
(reported on)Focus LX
- 53,800 miles
i seem to have the same problem. the ignition key will not turn and could not start my car. and i had to pay the expensive price to fix it
2006Jul 05
(reported on)Focus ES
- 70,000 miles
We just got the transmission replaced on this car and now the key wont' turn in the ignition. The steering wheel is locked and the key won't turn at all. What a piece of junk car. I am very disappointed and would like Ford to do something about this problem because it seems to be something that needs to be recalled.
2006Jul 05
(reported on)Focus SE
- 67,000 miles
I was parking my car one day when I pulled into my parking space, shifted the car into park and then turned it off. I could not get the key out of the ignition. I tried everything.. I almost bent the key. I know a little about cars and thought that maybe the shifter was stuck. It looked like it was in park but then I pushed on it really really hard after an hour of trying to rip the key out of the ignition and the key came out. This car has so many recall issues, I consider this car to be a recall on wheels. I am letting the thing get reposessed this month. I called Ford about all the problems I was having with this car and they said that the problems I am having are all recall issues but not for my cars year. They explained to me that even though I was having the same recall issues at the 2000-2001 ford focuses that my cars year did not seem to have those problems and that my car has not been recalled except for the front clips. I could not believe it.
2006Jun 10
(reported on)Focus LE
- 35,000 miles
I had the same problem everyone else has with the ford focus. Got in the car, went to turn the key in the ignition and nothing, the key wont even turn. The ford focus should be recalled. The locksmith who fixed my problem said he has had to fix several other focuses. Why dont the dealers or FORD itself report this frequent problem of the ford focus?
2006Jun 09
(reported on)Focus SE
- 50,000 miles
key goes into ignition but doesnt turn/start? i can buy an ignition cylinder from local store but the car has to be towed to dealer to have the key programmed. so its safe against theft but it cost a lot if you have no warranty and run into problems.
2006Jun 13
(reported on)Focus SE
- 35,000 miles
Something like this should be under warranty. There are also electrical issues, trunk lock issues and the interior is basically falling apart. I took the car to one mechanic who would fix it for less than $100., but Ford would not give him my security codes for the ignition lock, so I was forced to go to Ford for a repair THREE TIMES what I should be charged. It was not under warranty or recall, but I still owe another year and a half payments on this piece of junk.
2006Feb 10
(reported on)Focus SE
- 60,000 miles
I seem to have the SAME problem that EVERYONE else had!!!! The ignition key will not turn and could not start my car. I could not get to work. Ford fix the ignition key, but left me without a horn and my airbag feature. They said that because they could not start my car before fixing the ignition key. There's no way to prove that my airbags were working fine and they could not deny that the horn was working but still refused to fix my car at their cost!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Dec 22
Focus
The dealer wanted $300-350 to replace the ignition. After seeing several complaints from people saying they have had the problem three or more times, I called a locksmith to remove the parts(tumblers?) that kept the cylinder from turning($75). The car will start now and still needs the transponder in the key to start. However, the key can fall out of the key slot during a hard turn.
Should not start with another key. Will test as I know someone who has a 2004 model that has had the same problem.
This is a personal security safety problem as my daughter sometimes works late at the mall and she doesn't need to get stranded in the parking lot late at night waiting for someone. Ford needs to step up, design a new cylinder that will not fail and fix all of these.
L G.
The Colony, TX, USA
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