How to Solve Ford Focus Will Not Turn Key on Ignition Cylinder

How to Solve Ford Focus Will Not Turn Key on Ignition Cylinder (5)

This article give out a solution for anyone who runs into an ignition cylinder that will not turn with the key inserted.

 

Tools You Need

How to Solve Ford Focus Will Not Turn Key on Ignition Cylinder (1)

Procedures:

Get a regular non-PATS key made at the lock smith.

Using the regular key in the ignition, tap lightly on the end of the key with a medium size screwdriver handle and try to turn the key as you’re tapping. Be persistant. I did this for 30 minutes.

If the key still won’t turn, try spraying a little WD-40 or some type of lubricant and try again.

If it still won’t turn, call the locksmith or get ready for an enduring experience at some drilling.

I would suggest you get some titanium or HSS(High Speed Steal) drill bits because I had a set of the Black and Decker drill bits and broke 3 of them. Even a large one, which was only one size smaller than the 3/8. The IC is made of some very harded metal and it’s gonna take some work to get it drilled out.

How to Remove & Install Ignition Cylinder for Ford Focus

*Also, mark the drill bit with some tape 1 inch from the top so you know how far to drill. You don’t want to go any further or you’ll start going into the steering column. (See picture above for example)

*It’s best to drill a little below the X in the instructions. I drilled at the same point and my drill rode up in to the tumbler area and you get this, a larger hole.

How to Solve Ford Focus Will Not Turn Key on Ignition Cylinder (2)

Here’s what a properly drilled IC looks like.

How to Solve Ford Focus Will Not Turn Key on Ignition Cylinder (3)

Now, you will need to get the IC to turn to the Accessory position for 2 reasons.
1.To be able to push the little button on the side, the IC needs to be turned to the Accessory position. Mine would not push in if it was in the OFF position or in the RUN position. It had to be in the Accessory position in order for the button to push in.

2.There is a locking ring a the end of the IC that need to go in to a groove/slot in the steering wheel or the IC will not slide out.

How to Solve Ford Focus Will Not Turn Key on Ignition Cylinder (4)

So, if you can’t turn the IC to the Accessory position, the IC isn’t going to slide out even if you can push the little button on the side.

*I used an allen wrench to push the button. There’s no way you are going to get a screwdriver to push the button unless you remove the steering wheel.

The new style IC definitely looks different. Looks more like the 2005 IC. It’s got a center piece and looks more like a 2 piece IC whereas the old style IC seems to be a 1 peice.

How to Solve Ford Focus Will Not Turn Key on Ignition Cylinder (5)

Anyway, I want to say thanks to b16sir1991 (Mike) for getting me the IC for cheap with a regular key and tumblers setup. I basically had to just install it and it worked.
He also provided me with the tips I posted here and he was very helpful.

Anyone who needs an IC, I would suggest sending b16sir1991 a PM since he gets them from Ford and the IC is a new style Motorcraft part which should not have the lock up issue.

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Author: wwwforddiycom