2001 Ford Focus Equipment Problems

“This came out of nowhere. One day the key would not turn over. It was as if the steering column was locked. We googled the problem and found that it is very common in Ford Focus's built between 2000-2003. The quick fix was to carry a hammer around and give it a hit when the key gets stuck. This has worked pretty well until this morning. It took me 15 minutes to start the car.”

“I tried to start my car and the key wouldn't turn in the ignition, therefore I was unable to start my car. It has only occurred this one time, I am having the ignition replaced.”

“Poorly designed ignition cylinders. This causes the tumblers to fail resulting in a lock-up of the ignition. The owner cannot turn the key to start the car and as a result, has to be towed. I was told that the ignition cylinders in the 2000 and 2001 Focus were the european design. I have had to replace my cylinder twice. Once it was covered under warranty, the second time it was not and I had to pay $200. There are other Focus owners who have this problem. See the websites below. …”

“The ignition will not turn without large amounts of spray lubricant and pummeling the key while in the ignition to cause the tumblers in the cylinder to fall into place. This is a major safety issue, because it happens without warning, and right now, during these epic blizzards we are experiencing, it has caused me to be in danger. This problem is common among owners of this vehicle. Many people have developed ways to temporarily fix it since they don't have money available fix this unexpected safety issue, which is not part of preventative maintenance of an automobile.... …”

“Turned off my 2001 Ford Focus (with only 36,320 miles on it) as usual and when I returned to car and attempted to start it up, the key would not turn in the ignition. Had to have it towed to the dealership where they had to drilled out the tab, and build and install new key cylinder for a total of $427.84. They did not offer the old part to me and I didn't think to ask for it. Thankfully, it happened during the day while I was at my dentist's, and not at night after work. Have since found out that a class action law suit has been filed in california. There should be a recall of these cars.”