not car audio but engine start question

[CHUPA_CABRA_2.0]

I have a Ford Focus I have started to have issues with my ingition switch. It seems that this is a common issue with this model Focus. It will run me atleast $100.00 to fix, with me doing the work. Even then people have had the problem reoccur. So I was wondering if it is possible to use the Honda S2000 engine start switch WITHOUT having the key in the igniton at all. My problem is that I have is that my key won't go in all the way. I have to hit the key lightly for it to go in and turn. I am trying to bypass the key all together. I have the PATS system but as long as the key is near the column it will start (from what I understand) Please help thanks.

[TJElite]

I did something like this on a Ford van, for a handicapped customer. We added a toggle for ignition, and a big pushbutton for start. If you can get the column lock bypassed, you don't need a key at all. On the van I did, we just leave the key in the ignition, turned to 'on' all the time. It also adds extra security, since he can turn it off, and pull the key, if he wants to.

Toby

[CHUPA_CABRA_2.0]

Hmm good point. Thanks Toby I will look into that

[Notladstyle]

The hardest part is breaking the steering lock pin. Once you break it (pull really hard) the rest is just wiring in the ignition switch and starter button and maybe purchase a bypass unit off ebay and wire it into a separate, hidden, button that you hold in while you start the engine to bypass the key safety.

Doing it this way will preserve the ignition column(minus the steering lock which no1 checks) so that you can sell the car without answering any questions.

[MCOR]

I have a Ford Focus I have started to have issues with my ingition switch. It seems that this is a common issue with this model Focus. It will run me atleast $100.00 to fix, with me doing the work. Even then people have had the problem reoccur. .....\

To be honest, it is actually not too bad to replace the ignition switch (I was a 12 year Senior Master Tech for Ford and the shop foreman for 6 of those years)-most techs could get them done in .5 hours and Ford paid us 1.4 hours. And, once you put in the updated kit, it is a different design and you won't have the problem again. If you have a service history with any Ford dealer, and your Focus is under 60K miles, you may want to approach the service manager about getting it done through Ford's "P05" program. The dealer, the customer, and Ford all pay a percentage of the repair and it can usually save you a couple of bucks (and the labor hassle). If not, set aside a half day and just install the kit yourself-you'll have no more problems...