This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
Consumer unable to turn key in ignition switch as a result of key cylinder locking up. Contacted dealer.replaced parts 3 times; but problem reoccurred.
I have had to many problems with this car for it to have been bought new in 2000. This problem with the ignition switch is unbelievable. When we talked to the dealership they referred us to a locksmith. The locksmith told us that he knew exactly what the problem was because he had done over 300 of these in the last year or so. When we had a tow truck to come and tow it to the dealer, he told us that he tows 2 or 3 of these cars a day for the same problem. I think it is absolutely upsurd and totally unfair that Ford hasn't recalled this part. Also, I had to replace the front rotors and pads on this car Dec. 2000, and I am being told that my brakes need to be done again. Something needs to be done about this car. Especially the 2000 model. I have been on the internet and have found a number of other people having the exact same problems and more with this car.
The key would not go into the switch, when it finally did I was unable to turn it- the tow truck driver said he'd seen seversl of these Focus' having this problem- vehicle was towed to dealer on Sunday- they worked on it Monday and until 2 pm Tuesday - charged full cost for labor and part- there is quite a history being built in your files of this problem. In the past there would almost never be a problem with keys not turning in ignition switches. I will also contact Ford about this but wanted to get this onto your list first.
I cannot start my 2000 Ford Focus because the ignition key will not turn in the steering column - I called the dealer where I bought it - the service department gave me an estimate of $350 over the phone and said to save the receipt since this may become a recall - in the meantime I am unable to use the vehicle to drive to work until I can come up with at least $350.
Key would not go into ignition. When I finally got it in, it would not turn. Car had to be towed to dealer. Dealer tried to tell me it was because the locks had not been lubricated on a regular basis (car with 30K miles).
Ignition switch failure. Switch had to be replaced on vehicle for the second time. The first incident was during the 36,000 mile warranty period. This vehicle is one of four 2000 Ford Focus hatchbacks that our company owns. They have all had the ignition switch replaced at least once and there is another one that has been replaced twice. This was the first one that wasn't under 36,000 miles when it was replaced. After pointing this out to Ford they informed us that they are not having a problem with the ignition system. I checked the NHTSA site for complaints on the ignition system and there are many people having the same problems that we are having.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Jackson, MS, USA