Ford Focus Ignition Problems

Ford Focus Ignition Problems

Most Ford Focus owners have complaints against the vehicle that either the key sticks in the ignition or it doesn’t turn. All models of Ford Focus right from 2000-2003 have this issue. It was not a cost issue until the cars were under warranty but after the warranty expired, the value of the cars steadily depreciated in the used car market. Plus the owners have to shell out quite a bit to get it repaired at their own cost.

The time period while the ignition works well depends but whether it is two months or 5 years, the bare truth is that it will get jammed. You may have issues with the car key getting stuck in the ignition and only jiggling the ignition will allow you to start which is a sure sign that you need to call in a professional to get the ignition repaired or changed. But if you own a Ford Focus, you just cannot get away with this problem.
Many believe that the reason for the jamming and ignition switch issue is related to poor design and cheap quality manufacturing by Ford. The 1990s made Ford ignition switches were known to catch fire, thus it is best to keep in mind that any malfunction could leave you stranded anywhere.
The connection between the Ford ignition and the car’s computer is through the Transponder microchip inbuilt within the car key. Changing the ignition switch, which is a professional and complex operation, needs an expert auto locksmith to do the installation. You can’t just take it to the dealership for getting this done due to high costs.
So why does this problem arise?
Well, the basic reason is that the ignition assembly is not of the quality that is desired and thus gets worn out very fast, leaving you with numerous glitches. Other experts believe that there is a design issue that adds to the problem. Generally this kind of a situation arises when the wafers jam the ignition and the cylinder bends, leaving then latched in a position which does not allow them to move.
Check if you are having any of these issues with your Ford Focus car:

• Difficulty in turning the key in the ignition
• Sticking ignition
• Key is dirty after removing or turning
• Unable to remove the key
• Key locked in a position
• Completely ‘frozen’ key

Help is at hand.LAE Locksmith can do this job efficiently and at half the cost of getting the ignition assembles replaced at a dealership. Different locksmiths handle this problem in their own way but usually fix the ignition but in extreme situations need to replace the ignition and reprogramming it to mach the rest of the car locks and the key.
If you are wondering about the charge of fixing this issue, LAE Locksmith charges in the range of $200-$300 while the same work done at a dealership costs way over $500. The only solution most people came up with was to leave a key in the ignition permanently!

Ford Focus Ignition Problems in Years 2000-2006 has a known problem regarding the ignition. It could be six months, or it could even be six years, but eventually the ignition will stick! The key itself might get stuck in the ignition, or you may have to jiggle the ignition in order to have it turn - a sure sign that you should have a professional replace the ignition. Either way, if you own a Ford Focus, there is a high probability that you may come across this issue.

Many consumers feel that the general cause of this ignition switch problem is due to poorly manufactured parts by Ford. The manner in which the Ford Focus ignition communicates with the car's computer is via the Transponder microchip, which is located directly within your car key, so replacing the ignition switch can be a highly complex operation, and is exactly why professional installation is strongly recommended. Yes, at LAE Locksmith we can do this job for you, this is not a task where you'll be forced to seek services from the dealership!

The problem comes from the ignition switch not being of the highest quality and is therefore easily worn out. What happens then is the wafers get stuck into the ignition, and also the cylinder itself becomes bent, making them latch in their current position disabling them from moving. Ford Focus owners need not despair! There are locksmiths out there that do have a few ways of handling this issue ranging from, when possible, fixing the ignition to, in serious situations, replacing the ignition and recoding it to match your key and the rest of the car locks.

Bike Lock - Which Type is Best?

There are three main types of locks. Choosing the best bike lock is an individual choice based on three factors:

1. The rate of crime in the area you are in. If bikes are stolen every day, it means there are criminals that are good at stealing bikes. You need extra protection.
2. Is your bike outside overnight?
3. How far do you have to carry your lock? Will a fifteen pound lock in a backpack on your back cause problems?

Cable Bike Lock - A cable lock is made of a wound steel cable. While it is generally easy to snap with bolt cutters or power tools but in a low-crime area it is a lightweight, easy choice for medium security needs. Always make sure to thread the cable lock through the wheel and the frame. If you only put the cable bike lock through the wheel, it can be removed and the rest of the bike is easily stolen.
U-Bar Bike Lock - The U-bar style lock comes in mini or light varieties that only weigh a few pounds all the way up to a six pound U-bar heavy-duty lock. The U-bar is generally only going to be defeated with a hacksaw and time, but each U-bar bike lock is different and it is important to also look at the locking mechanism to make sure it cannot be easily picked with a pen or other small object. Reading online reviews can help you determine if the U-bar style is the right bike lock for your needs.
Chain Bike Lock - Even in the chain lock category there are differences based on the padlock that clasps the two ends of the chain together. Chain bike locks come in lengths from two and a half feet to over five feet. Chains specifically made for bike safety are tempered and resistant to bolt cutters. Chains are the ideal choice for high-crime areas where a bike thief may actually carry a hacksaw or bolt-cutter around under a coat or in a bag. Of course, the chain is only as strong as the lock that holds it together. While a dual action disc lock system resists everything including freezing, if you have a disc lock on a base that can be cut through with a hacksaw, it is vulnerable.
The key is to balance your security needs with your comfort. If you are in a low-crime area you may only need a light cable bike lock that is easy to carry. A high-crime area requires a sturdy, heavy chain bike lock that cannot be easily broken - that means you will be carrying a nine to fifteen pound lock over your shoulder or in your backpack. If you are not in a high-crime area, but want more security than a cable lock provides, a U-bar bike lock will serve you well.

What Is an Auto Lockout Service?

What Is an Auto Lockout Service?

Are you going to need an auto lockout service? It’s one of those situations that no one can really predict. If you’ve ever slammed the car door and realized at that same instant that you just locked the keys inside, you know what a sense of panic that can create. If you’ve planned ahead, you may have a spare key available and the problem is solved. Unfortunately many of us don’t give it much thought until we find ourselves peering in the car window at the keys still hanging in the ignition. The good news is that an auto lockout service is just a phone call away and most are available 24/7 so no matter where you are, day or night, there’s someone waiting to answer your call.

If you’re close to home or in a familiar part of town it may not seem so bad, having to wait for a locksmith to come and unlock your car door but if it’s 2am or you’re in a strange neighborhood it can be very scary. You need to take extra steps to ensure your safety. As soon as you discover you’re locked out, find a store or coffee shop. Call the auto lock out service and ask the locksmith to meet you there.
Once you’re back on the road again, give some serious thought to having an extra key made or even two. Keep one in your purse or wallet and another attached to the exterior of the car. You can purchase magnetic cases that attach to your vehicle’s wheel well or any out-of-sight but convenient location. The next time you slam the car door a split second before you realize the keys are still inside, you’ll be prepared.
Also remember that the fee for an auto lockout service may be covered, at least in part, by your auto insurance policy if you have coverage for emergency roadside assistance. It really depends on your state and the type of policy you have but it could save you quite a few dollars if you do need to call an auto lockout service.

Spare car keys - Transponder, VATS, Laser, rfid, chip, keycode car keys made.

Spare car keys - Transponder, VATS, Laser, rfid, chip, keycode car keys made.

Spare car keys - Transponder, VATS, Laser, rfid, chip, keycode car keys made. Locksmith

Don't buy a new computer for your Lexus or fancy Toyota because you lost the car keys. The cost can be more than $1200. The Lexus and Toyota dealers don't want the public to know it, but a savvy locksmith can reflash your Lexus car computer to learn new keys. Snap! In LOS ANGELES, California, look no further than LAE locksmiths for all your Lexus car key replacement, and Lexus car computer reflash services. LAE locksmiths can also order new shells for your Lexus remote head keys. This is a cheaper route if the metal part of the Lexus key is merely broken. If the transponder chip part of the key is still working, LAE locksmiths can replace the shell of the key, cut your key code to the key, and off you go. In these tough economic times,LAE ocksmiths offers a valuable alternative to a complete computer change. For immediate 24/7 mobile locksmith service in LOS ANGELES -LA , CA, call 888-444-4703

As the best on-line locksmith, LAE LOCKSMITH is releasing a statement to let American consumers know that they are offering Transponder (RFID / chip), VATS, and laser cut car keys, besides re-keying and shipping locks and ignition locks to all 50 states. When looking for spare car keys, the best place to go is LAE LOCKSMITHAs always, customers can provide the key code or VIN number to get an exact copy of their vehicle’s key.
LAE LOCKSMITH specializes in GM VATS keys and transponder car keys for most automobile brands, including: Ford, GM, Chevrolet, Honda, Nissan, Toyota, GMC, Lincoln, Lexus, Volkswagen, Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, Pontiac, Mazda, Acura, Hyundai, Oldsmobile, etc. They also sell and re-key original locks like the Ford Focus ignition lock that so commonly needs to be replaced. FULL 24/7 MOBIL CAR LOCKSMITH SERVICE IN LOS ANGELES -- LA ,CALIFORNIA- 1-888-444-4703

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  Call LAE for all your locksmith services, high security laser cut sidewinder keys, transponder chip keys, and ignition repair / replacement, in LA, California. We are a fast locksmith service that provides quality service in a timely manner.  

LAE Locksmiths Expand Car Key Replacement Services to Include Lexus Keys in LOS ANGELES, CA

Auto Chip Keys - The Good, Bad and Ugly

Auto Chip Keys - The Good, Bad and Ugly
  Greg N. Brandt, CML

What's up? The price of your car keys. How much? It could be a little or a whole lot. Technology has affected everything you own, and that includes your car keys.
Vehicle security has changed in these technological times. In the 1970's some cars began to use unconventional keys which must be cut using special machinery. In 1986, GM introduced VATS immobilization, which requires using an ignition key containing a electronic resistor pellet.
Today, transponder technology is redefining the way vehicles are being protected.

The Good

Transponder based immobilization is a very effective deterrent against auto theft. Embedded in the head of the key is a radio frequency "chip" which transmits a unique digital code to the car. The car must be programmed to recognize each key. The car is electronically shut down unless a properly programmed key is used to start the car.
This prevents a vehicle from being stolen by any of the classic methods of forcing, breaking, or lock manipulation. Stronger and better locks are good, but there is nothing which cannot eventually be broken or defeated. Therefore, electronic immobilization is ideal. It is safe to say that countless cars have not been stolen because of transponder technology.

The Bad

Transponder keys and the associated components in the car cost more, but considering the extra security it is probably money well spent. Even though all these systems work by inducing the transponder key to transmit its unique digital code, how these codes work and required programming procedures vary considerably. This translates into quite a difference in the cost of keys, and how easy it is for you to be able to obtain them.
For example, one of the most user friendly transponder systems is used on the early Fords (1996-'97). In order to add additional keys, all you need is one existing key. The programming can be done on-board without any special equipment, and takes only seconds. If all keys are lost to the car, the programming can still be done without diagnostic equipment, but there is some time involved. Keys are relatively inexpensive, approximately $20.00, give or take.
There are keys for other cars which may be in about the same price range for a duplicate, but duplicating your car key is just part of the process. The car must learn the unique digital code of each key, and that may require additional expense. Looking at Ford again, most of their models switched to a different programming method beginning in 1998. In order to add duplicate keys, you must have two existing programmed keys. To add a key requires cycling the two existing keys in the ignition, followed by the new duplicate. If only one key is available, then the car must be connected to diagnostic equipment to program keys, and this will certainly add to the cost. Depending on the car, programming keys may require using diagnostic equipment, no matter how many keys you have.
There are a few types of keys which may have the transponder digital code cloned to another key. In these cases, diagnostic or on-board programming is not necessary as long as one key is available. Details of programming transponder keys varies depending on the make, year and model, and also if all keys are lost, or if only one key is available.

The Ugly

How secure do you want to be? Transponder systems certainly make a car much more secure against theft. However, manufacturers can also use this technology in ways which may cause great expense and/or inconvenience to the owner. All of these systems immobilize your car electronically, but the more exclusive the system, the more you can be charged for services.
Common ways to make the system exclusive are:

The necessity of proprietary diagnostic equipment for key programming.

Establishing vehicle specific PIN codes necessary for key programming.

The use of proprietary transponder chips.

Using special encrypted codes within the car's on-board system

Servicing most transponder equipped cars requires some type of special equipment. Locksmiths must make a substantial investment to service transponder keys, and the investment is ongoing with the continued development of necessary new software and tools.
With some cars, locksmiths may have the capability to program keys, but essential information or PIN codes are either cumbersome to get, or not available. All Volkswagen and Audi cars require a vehicle specific PIN code for any key programming. VW/Audi has taken several steps to greatly complicate the process. There are several other cars which require these PINs.
There is a trend toward proprietary chips used in keys. Many keys are reasonably priced because the components are off-the-shelf. Nevertheless, manufacturers can use technology to their favor and produce keys which use transponders only available through them. For instance, the later Toyota and Lexus vehicles use key blanks which cost the locksmith about four times that of what was previously available. There are other makes which have begun to use exclusive chips including some later Mitsubishi, Nissan, Infiniti and Ford automobiles. Is your car which use these special chips less likely to be stolen? Probably not, but you will pay a lot more for your keys.
Manufactures can claim exclusivity is greater security, and honestly that may bear a small measure of truth. Unfortunately, exclusivity may also be used simply to boost profits of the car companies, and it is very hard to prove which factor is in play.
Say you are on a ski trip in Colorado and the only key to your Volvo S40 falls out of your pocket on the lift. At present, the only way to program Volvo keys is to have the car in the service bay at the dealer, and connected to their diagnostic equipment. Since it is Saturday afternoon, you better figure on some extra lodging, then waiting until Monday to tow your car several hundred miles to the dealer so a key can be made. In many cases that dealer won't even be able to mechanically cut the key, and you might wind up waiting an extra day to have one shipped overnight so that it may be programmed by the dealer. Now if you had a Ford Explorer, there would be any number of locksmiths with the ability to come to the car, fit a key, and program the transponder on the spot.
Another interesting but different example is the immobilization system used on BMW. BMW uses a system which the manufacturer has exclusive control of. The transponders use a rolling code technology in which part of a different code is written to the key each time it is used. When the car is manufactured, there are 10 chips programmed into the immobilizer. You order additional keys through a dealer, which are already programmed for the car. When all 10 chip values have been used, you must replace the immobilizer system. Additionally, BMW is very restrictive about ordering keys. You must present certain documents at the dealer to prove ownership.
There are situations where these cars have been purchased at auctions, and the buyers have applied for and received salvage titles. BMW will not sell keys if the owner has a salvage title. So, they will not order a key to get you going, but, they will install locks and a new immobilizer to get you going.. A potential customer recently related that BMW was going to charge$1600.00 to replace the necessary parts to get his car running. To deny ordering a key, but then to require replacing parts at a much higher cost, defies reasonalbe explaination.

Conclusion

In general, transponder immobilization systems are very effective against auto theft. Cars will always be stolen by a number of different methods, but transponder technology is highly effective against the see, break, drive away threat. However, look out for this technology because it may become your nemesis.
call us today in los angeles and orange county for all your transponder needs-1-888-444-4703

Taking Care of Car Keys

 You depend upon your car keys on a daily basis so you need to take good care of them to ensure that you don’t lose them and that they don’t get damaged or stolen. Here’s how:

Always keep at least one spare at home. If possible, keep a spare at work also. These are likely to be the two places where you might lock your keys into your car. If you have spares on hand then you won’t have to go to the inconvenience of calling an emergency auto-locksmith to get you back into your car. Another good idea is to keep a spare tucked into your purse or wallet. Check it periodically though to make sure you haven’t lost that one.
When you lose your car keys
Chances are that you are going to realize you’ve lost your keys pretty quickly, so it’s worthwhile re-tracing your steps just in case you dropped them nearby. It’s also worth calling your local police station just in case someone found them and has turned them in. If you can’t find them you will need to locate your spares and bring them to your car. If you don’t have any spares you will need to get you car to a dealership and ask them to make a new set of keys for you. Ask them for an estimate of the cost and how long it will take.
When you lock yourself out of your car
If you have locked your keys in your car you will need an auto locksmith to pick the lock of your auto and let you in. Here are some tips to help you choose an auto locksmith. Contemporary car locking systems are very sophisticated. They are designed to keep out anyone who does not have an actual key to the car. If you have locked yourself out of your car, don’t panic. Call 411 and get directory assistance to help you locate one in your area. Even though you may be in a hurry, you still don’t have to jump at the first one you manage to get hold of. Take a little time to ask them questions and vet their qualifications and experience. Before you agree to hire the locksmith, be sure to ask him for an estimate that will cover all the replacement parts, work and time it will take him to finish the job properly. Also inquire about any possible additional fees such as late night fees or quick response fees. Also ask if there is a minimum fee or a mileage fee. Don’t forget to find out if the automotive locksmith is insured. This is essential to know because if he causes damage to your car while he is doing his job his insurance will pay for this.

Remote Keyless Entry for Your Car

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Key to Freedom and Convenience
If you have a remote keyless entry for your car, you no doubt are well aware of the convenience and peace of mind it provides. The remote keyless entry device allows you to unlock your door, activate your alarm, and possibly even start your engine before you even get to your vehicle. And if you happen to be loaded down with packages or toting a sleeping child, that assistance is worth a lot!
When an automobile is equipped with an RKS or remote keyless entry system, several very basic functions of a standard car key are performed by the remote itself without having to make physical contact with the vehicle. Most systems operate off a key fob, which is a small plastic device attached to your key ring. The typical key fob has several buttons, each of which is used to perform one of the various functions of the system. In general, the buttons will include one that locks the door and another that unlocks the door, one that may open or close the door (often in the case of a mini van with automatic doors), still another that can be used to release the trunk or tailgate, one to set the car alarm, and a red button that triggers a panic alarm. Some keyless entry systems can even be combined with the security system of a building or house, a remote garage door opening system, or a unit to remotely activate lights inside the building.
Remote keyless entry systems are standard or an optional upgrade on over 70% of vehicles manufactured today. Each and every system has its own unique code that is transmitted when one of the buttons is pushed. The code is then picked up by the receiver located inside the car. Since the remote and the receiver are both programmed to the same code for each activation, when the code sent from the fob matches the code in the receiver, the assigned function happens. Technology in this area has become so sophisticated that the rolling code system used in these devices (meaning the codes are reset after each activation) creates almost a trillion possible code combinations!
Aside from the ability to trigger a panic alarm or arm your car's theft deterrent system with the push of a button, a remote keyless entry offers another safety feature--a flashing LED light inside the vehicle, indicating the system is set. This alone may make a potential thief bypass your car.