focus key wont turn

We have a 2003 focus that has a problem similar to the ignition cylinder problem.
Every now and then the key wont turn in the ignition(and yes its the right key!)
But a friend told me to lift the small cap on the right hand side of the shifter mount and inside there is a shifter release. If you push that the car starts.
Anyone else experience this and if so is is some sort of end switch for the shifter? I just dont want to take it in for the usual "rape" the dealers offer for something I should be able to do myself and wanted to see if anyone has had this issue.

:uhoh: no -one???

The shifter has a interlock at the ignition switch. The brake has to be on and the ignition switch has to be in RUN to shift out of Park. This interlock is a cable going from the ignition switch to the shifter. The cable could be binding up. Try releasing the pressure of the steering wheel before you try to turn the key. It won't turn if there's any pressure on the switch. Try putting some powdered graphite into the lock hole or.....spray some WD40 into the lock hole and coat the key, too. Put the little red spray tip on the WD40 and give it a short blast of lubricant.

Common problem on the focus and contours. THe tumbler falls apart inside and the only way to fix the issue is to drill(if it jams completely) and replace the tumbler. Not an do it your self type of job, if not careful you can tear up the column and other expensive parts.

You should rotate your brake discs and change the air in your tires.

You should rotate your brake discs and change the air in your tires.
What do the brakes and air have to do with the ignition problem?

We have a 2003 focus that has a problem similar to the ignition cylinder problem.
Every now and then the key wont turn in the ignition(and yes its the right key!)
But a friend told me to lift the small cap on the right hand side of the shifter mount and inside there is a shifter release. If you push that the car starts.
Anyone else experience this and if so is is some sort of end switch for the shifter? I just dont want to take it in for the usual "rape" the dealers offer for something I should be able to do myself and wanted to see if anyone has had this issue.
I am having the same problem with my 2002 I'm just not sure of any quick fixes..... I was hoping to find something on here that would be helpful

The fella' that suggested brake disc rotation and air changing of the tires was a little 'off task'.

When this happened to me (key not turning in the ignition) I gave the key a gentle smash in an attempt to drive it deeper into the ignition and it worked. However, I then proceeded to the local Ford dealer for them to fix the problem. $200.00 later the problem was fixed. It's a fairly common problem on the Focus I think. My local mechanic couldn't touch the problem as the new ignnition has to be re-keyed to my existing keys. As a rule, I steer clear of the dealership for service...far too expensive.

I took it straight to the dealership as I didn't want to get stuck some night and the 'gentle smash' procedure wouldn't work.