01 LS How do I get the ignition switch cylinder out?

Paul Parker

New LVC Member
Joined
Feb 1, 2015
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Location
Sarasota
My keys won't turn in the ignition suddenly. The dealer (last resort) told me to call a locksmith, but the locksmith won't touch an LS. I can't find it in the FMC manual, either. Anyone have any ideas, short of calling Salvation Army?
:mad:
 
have a key remade.. although ford wont make one for you anymore (older than ten years) a locksmith should be able to guess just by looking what (tooth) is worn. (assuming thats your problem)
 
Is the car's steering wheel turned hard to one side? If so try forcing the wheel until it's centered between the locks (wheel shouldn't turn more than a quarter inch or so), then try it again. Steering wheels have a key interlock to keep the wheel from turning unless the key is in place. If the wheel has a lot of pressure against it, it can lock the key cylinder keeping the key from turning.
 
...in the USA....(IIRC)

True, but even on the few with steering locks outside the US, Telco's advice does not apply. The few with steering locks, use electric/electronic locks. There is no physical connection to the ignition lock cylinder at all.
 
Yes, I thought about a disclaimer about the LS possibly not having something most every other car in the US has, but I deleted it. Bad on me, I guess.
 
Thanks, guys. The steering wheel of course does not lock, and it was in park. The shifter could not be moved at all.
The tow truck came to get it, the guy got in and turned the key. He got a huge tip, and I got my car back... for now.

Still need to know... how do I get that cylinder out? I'd like to redo it now while I can.
 
well to remove you take the trim off and remove the (2?) bolts.. I dont remember anything complicated about the cylinder/housing... now to DISASSEMBLE the cylinder, thats another... not sure what you mean by "redo"
 
Having the same issue today..

Suddenly the key will not turn at all.

Finally got it to turn and now after a few more attempts the lock cylinder sounds and feels like a bearing without grease turning with resistance.

Can only assume I will get stuck randomly in the near future so is it possible to have the lock cyclinder repaired or cleaned?

Can a replacement donor key/lock be done with forscan?

Edit: lock smith says they can check it out the cylinder or reprogram a new one to the existing key. Still rather use forscan then pay if I dont have to..
 
The release button is there if anyone ever comes across this. Only had to pop off the small panel surrounding the ignition. Disconnect the battery, turn the key to the run position while pushing the button and it slid right out.

Luckily the cylinder locked up in the locksmiths hands. He said one of the wafers was getting stuck. Replaced filed and back on my way $45 later with smooth engagement.

20250821_164741.jpg
 

Members online

No members online now.
Back
Top