2002 Ford Focus
The common Ignition Switch lockup problem
Here is a very inexpensive way to fix that pesky ignition switch lock problem on your '02 Focus. You wont find this anywhere else because most people dont realize how easy it is to fix,and cheap! The dealership will charge you at least 500 dollars.
First you need to purchase an ignition switch at the regular parts store (usually around 50 dollars).Make sure you have electrical tape,socket set,and a small but firm pointy object.
Step 1: Take the steering wheel off by removing the horn cover and accessing the bolt in the very center.You will need your socket for this.
Step 2: Once you get the steering wheel off,and the covering around the steering colum,look to the left of the colum directly opposite the ignition switch.There will be a tiny hole there.You will need your sharp firm object to push into this hole to release the ignition switch.As you are holding the object into the hole,wiggle the ignition with the key in (its ok if you cant get it out) until it breaks free.Then pull it out,and pop in the new one. You have probably noticed by now that the key will turn,but the car still wont crank.This is because the new key needs to be programmed to your cars computer.No problem.
Step 3: There is a sensor in the very top of your steering column which senses the key's programming.If it is not programmed,it wont crank.Now you need your old ignition,key and your electrical tape.Put the old key in the old ignition and put it inside the sensor ring (you cant miss it,it's right beside or above the ignition,it's a ring about an inch wider than the ignition) then use your electrical tape to tape it inside and to the sensor ring.
Step 4: Now you can hide your rigging by taping the ring/ignition to the lower top or side of the steering column.If you put it in the right spot,the column cover will fit over the ring/ignition and hide it.If it does'nt fit,just re-tape it,and keep trying until it does.
Step 5: Now that you have your column cover back on,it's time to put the steering wheel back on.IMPORTANT!! Be sure to line up the steering wheel in the proper position and to tighten the bolt down very well to prevent any accidents.
Tip: You want to keep testing the new ignition after adding the old ignition and key to the sensor ring before you put the steering wheel and column back on,to save further hassle if you did'nt get it in the right spot.
Good Luck!!
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