Steering Column Repair: Ford Focus: Locked steering column, power door locks, tilt wheel

Question
I have a 2002 Focus which I purchased about 6 weeks ago.  It is a very, very basic car:  No tilt wheel; no power door locks, etc.  It has not given me any trouble until this morning.  I put the key into the ignition, and was unable to turn the key.  The steering wheel is completely locked in place.  I was told by a locksmith that these cars a notorious for this,  and that this is an easy--albeit inconvenient because it's in my driveway and I have to have it towed--fix.  The owner's manual mentions nothing about locking up.  I was told it will have to go to the mechanic and will cost several hundred dollars to repair.  Please advise.  Thank you

Answer
Hi Sandy:
This is a very common 'all of a sudden' problem with the Ford Focus.  Sadly, Ford will not issue a recall.  The cost is approximately $250-$300 to replace the lock, (including the parts @ $130).  If the locksmith cannot get the lock to turn one more time, it will have to be drilled out and that's where the hassle comes in.  If it can turn, then there is a release pin that makes the job much easier.  The old lock slides out and the new one (after he builds it to fit your key) slides in.
We do these often and stock them in our truck because they are so popular.  If you play with it long enough, you can probably get it to turn once more.  That will save you lots!!
You have a computer chip in the key so don;t damage it.

Good luck
Doug
www.stolenandrecovered.com