Key getting stuck in admission

ANSWER : The ignition key lock cylinder on the 2001 to 2007 Ford Focus is prone to binding and sometimes will not release, causing the key to get stuck. The fix is to replace the ignition key lock cylinder in the steering column. The old key and new key need to be cut to match so the same key will open the doors and work the ignition. The new ignition key lock cylinder comes with new keys which can be cut at any locksmith. You can make an appointment with a certified mechanic such a one from YourMechanic to have the key lock cylinder replacement done at your home or office.

ANSWER : Hi and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. When the key is in the ignition switch, the key should not be able to come out of the switch when it has been turned. When the key is able to come out of the ignition switch in the On position or Accessory position, then the lock inside the tumbler has failed. Try to turn the steering wheel side to side to see if the steering wheel lock is causing your issues. If your steering wheel lock is not the issue, then you will need to have a new ignition switch tumbler installed and you will have to get a new key that matches the vehicle. If your ignition switch is stuck in the accessory position and will not shut off the power to the car, you can put graphite into the tumbler to help with the key; although this will damage the tumbler, you will be able to shut off the power to the vehicle. I recommend replacing the ignition switch and key to solve your stuck-in-accessory position situation. If you need assistance in getting your vehicle’s ignition switch to shut off, you should contact a technician. A YourMechanic certified mechanic can come to your location to perform an Ignition key is stuck and does not turn Inspection on your vehicle and diagnose this issue.

ANSWER : Unfortunately, the only way to get a replacement Intelligent Access key for your vehicle is from the Ford dealer. The keys will need to be programmed with an OEM capable scan tool as well, before the vehicle will recognize them.

ANSWER : The key sticking is probably a mechanical fault. There could be a problem with the key itself, the lock cylinder or any of the interlocks that affect the key and steering column. To inspect this and resolve it, just request an electrical component diagnostic – ignition key/switch. The parasitic power draw "might" be related to the key issue but that has to be determined because there are many circuits in the vehicle that can also be the source of phantom loads, not just the ignition circuit. Basically, the mechanic will narrow the possibilities by testing circuits starting at the battery. If you request the suggested diagnostic, the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : It sounds like you could be having an issue with your transmission. If the transmission is in gear and the gas pedal is pressed, the vehicle should move. If this is not happening, this is referred to as ’transmisison slipping’. This can happen due to low fluid level in the transmission or internal damage that may exist in the transmission. The only way to find out would be to have the transmission inspected by a qualified professional. This would involve checking for leaks and verifying that the fluid level is full. If the fluid is full and no leaks exist, it is possible that the transmission will need to be removed from the vehicle for further inspection of damages. If this is the case, it is possible that a new transmission or transmission overhaul will be required.

ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. This sounds like your battery cable connections are corroded or loose at the battery. Try to see if the battery connections are loose by wiggling them and see if power returns. If power returns, then have the cables removed, cleaned, and reconnected to test the battery. Hope this helps and best of luck!

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. When the key will not turn to the "Off" position, typically that will mean that you have an issue with you neutral safety switch. This safety feature limits your ability to turn the key off without the transmission being in park or neutral. The first thing to try is putting the car into neutral and attempting to turn it off then. Make sure your parking brake is on to keep the vehicle from rolling off. If the neutral safety switch is working correctly, you may want to look into and or replace the ignition cylinder. Only further testing will tell. For more diagnostic help and to resolve the problem, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.

ANSWER : Provided that you can turn your key to the off position where you would normally pull it out, it appears that the tumblers in your key cylinder are sticking or binding, preventing the key from being extracted. A quick simple thing that you should do first is spray an anti-seize penetrant directly into the keyhole, preferably a graphite based one. Then pull the key in and out of the lock to work the penetrant into the tumblers. If this doesn’t solve your issue, then you will have to have the ignition cylinder lock replaced by a professional.

A certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, can inspect and diagnose your key and ignition issue at your home or office and advise you on any repairs that will solve the problem. This is not a very big job, but it does take someone who knows what they are doing.