Car key wont turn in the ignition

[hungledink78]

I have a 2003 ford focus.

The ignition key has stopped working on the ignition, the key simply won't turn, although it seems ok in the doors.

Do I need a new ignition barrel? If so, s I can't currently move the car, and its not in a good position to be towed, how do I go about getting the barrel replaced? I have read that a locksmith should be able to do this but does it have to be an automotive locksmith?

Thanks in advance for any help.
Sorry if the post is in the wrong section.

[Baryonyx]

Is the steering lock on? If so, do you need to pull the wheel a bit? I recall my Focus having a pretty acute angle for disengaging the steering lock, so much that it fooled a few people!

[Shaw Tarse]

hungledink78 said:

I have a 2003 ford focus.

The ignition key has stopped working on the ignition, the key simply won't turn, although it seems ok in the doors.

Do I need a new ignition barrel? If so, s I can't currently move the car, and its not in a good position to be towed, how do I go about getting the barrel replaced? I have read that a locksmith should be able to do this but does it have to be an automotive locksmith?

Thanks in advance for any help.
Sorry if the post is in the wrong section.

Not the steering lock is it?

[hungledink78]

Hope it's not the steering lock, spent a good 20 minutes trying all sorts!!! Regardless of which way I turn the wheel or how hard I put pressure on it didn't seem to matter.

Had read that tapping the end of the key whilst its on the lock may help but sadly it didn't in my case.

[MissChief]

A liberal dose of WD40 sprayed into the barrel might help.

[minky monkey]

Ford barrels aren't the greatest, I've dealt with quite a number of failures while doing roadside assistance. A few things have worked for me, try a spare key incase the original has worn, pulling on the steering wheel while turning the key can free it off, as can tapping the barrel housing with a hammer (lightly!) while turning it. I've also used a pair of pliers, but be careful as you can snap the key.

I've changed older barrels, so I'm not sure on the 2003 version. But on the older ones, take the column surround off and if you can get the key to turn, turn it to position 1 and on the barrel is a pin that you press inwards. The lock then slides out of the housing. On the replacement lock, put the key in, turn to position 1 and push down the pin then slide it back into the housing. If properly located, the pin slots into position. Then just turn the key back and remove.

5 minute job if you can get the key to turn. If you get it released, look at getting it changed and don't leave it as if they fail again, they're a pain in the arse to recover!! I don't think the barrels are that dear either.

[yorkshireegg]

I thought wd40 was bad for locks?
I read that graphite is a better lubricant in this case. Just a case of rubbing a russian space pen on the key, insert and repeat a few times.

That reminds me, I need to fix my boot lock!

[hungledink78]

Thanks for the advice so far, if it does turn out the key/barrel are at fault, does it have to be an automotive locksmith or would any locksmith be ale to help?

[Rick 343]

Not an auto is it? If so make sure its in P.. sounds simple but ive seen it catch a few out.

[hungledink78]

Thanks for the advice so far, if it does turn out the key/barrel are at fault, does it have to be an automotive locksmith or would any locksmith be ale to help?

[Shaw Tarse]

yorkshireegg said:

I thought wd40 was bad for locks?
I read that graphite is a better lubricant in this case. Just a case of rubbing a russian space pen on the key, insert and repeat a few times.

That reminds me, I need to fix my boot lock!

[hungledink78]

Quick update, took the worn key to ford who were able to cut a new t key from it. Jobs a good un and only cost £10.

[JREwing]

hungledink78 said:

Quick update, took the worn key to ford who were able to cut a new t key from it. Jobs a good un and only cost £10.

Congratulations, OP. Just a worn key, then?
It's better than a worn barrel. Otherwise any little scrote could turn it with a lollipop stick. But I suppose that a 2003 model would have an immobiliser so it's not that simple.

[hungledink78]

Yeah, just a worn key. Had to argue with the ford 'suits' who wanted to charge me £80 to just strip down the steering column and diagnose the issue. Finally got them to agree to just cut a new key and job done.

Thanks for the advice everyone.