2004 Ford Focus put key into ignition and it won't turn

2004 Ford Focus

QUESTION:

'04 Focus with 28,000 miles. Problem: put key into ignition and it won't turn, steering wheel NOT locked. called local Ford dealer, said recurring problem on Focus, needs new ignition. Too expensive for me, so Ford dealer mechanic said to 'hit' the key into the ignition. It worked but now have to carry rubber mallet in car to hit key to turn ignition to start car. What's going on? Is this a recall issue? Why should a 4 1/2 yr old car with LOW mileage have this problem? I am not happy with this Focus. There have been other problems that were partially resolved. I still get very poor gas mileage but that's another problem for another time. What about this ignition problem?

Answer:

Yes this was a common problem and they did redesign the new cylinder to prevent this from going bad again. And no Ford never did issue a recall on this problem. So yes unfortunately you will have to replace the lock cylinder to prevent carrying a hammer around. And the hammer trick will not last forever. So yes I see why you are upset about the car but no company ever issues recalls every time they have a common problem they all have them. I wish you luck Steve
PS there are programs that dealers are provided with the option of helping the customer out one time after the warranty has ran out. If you have a good relationship with the dealer and if you are NICE then they may help you. But they do not HAVE to.

BMW X6 by Hamann

The BMX X6 is a tricky vehicle to classify. In photos, it can look like a hot-hatch on steroids. Up close, you see the SUV in the vehicle. It's dimensions are even larger than the X5 and the only thing that cramps its cargo room to make it less than the X5 is the sloping hatch - a styling cue that makes the X6 unique and hard to pin down.

Of course, the term-du-jour is Crossover, which is what Hamann-Motorsports uses to describe the X6. But their treatment is a little more adventurous than that. Hamann boosts the X6's 3.5i gasoline/petrol version from 306 to 360 hp and the 3.5d (diesel) from 286 hp to 320 hp. Cranking power is also considerably elevated by 140 Nm to 540 Nm in the 3.5i and taken to a massive 660 Nm in the 3.5d from a previous 580 Nm.

On the outside, Hamann offers the option of 23-inch rims, in need of 315/25R23 tires. Oh, and the price tag for just the four wheels is 9,385 euros. Yes, this is an audacious tuner that also messes with the BMW sound with a four-pipe exhaust system that gives the X6 a more grounded sound.

The tuning kit also comes with a collection of spoilers and skirts and the interior gets a once-over with special carbon-fiber materials too. But Hamann is a performance tuner and this X6 definitely puts on a show.

Personalize Your Pony and Avoid Stock 'Stangs

There are many reasons Mustangs are famous. It's the original pony car, a two-time winner of Motor Trend Car of the Year, has remained in production for more than four decades, etc, etc, etc. But what has really sustained this fine example of American automotive design and engineering is how endlessly modifiable these cars are. Each individual Mustang owner can transform their car exactly the way they want it, making it as fast, as powerful, as sleek or as sinister as they want. And since AmericanMuscle is the #1 aftermarket Mustang parts dealer on the Internet, it should be obvious where most of these owners go when they want the highest quality products at the best prices.

Did we mention that Mustang owners thrive on speed? Did we even have to mention it? AmericanMuscle knows this, and to make sure you can squeeze every last pony out of that Mustang engine, we offer a number of different Mustang superchargers that are the absolute last word in horsepower and torque. And when we say that, we mean you can generally look to add over 100 HP and around 65 ft-lbs. of torque with these superchargers. These bad boys don't mess around when it comes to getting the ponies out from under the hood and onto the road.

So, now that you've added all those ponies, you're going to need to make sure you're not going to be losing any because of drag or wind resistance. Which means that a Mustang spoiler could be right up your alley. In addition to those previously mentioned benefits, spoilers help to increase fuel efficiency and will give any Mustang an aggressive look that tells people to keep their distance or else you might blow their doors in.

On the few occasions that you're going slow enough for people to see your Mustang, they're more than likely going to be seeing your front end first. And one of the most noticeable customizations you can make to your front end is a new Mustang grille. We stock both upper and lower grilles for Mustangs, sleek mesh grilles or even billet grilles that will shine bright for as long as you own your Mustang.

AmericanMuscle also offers a wide variety of Mustang decals. You're proud of your car and you're proud that you've turned it into something that you can truly call original and your very own, so why not show off your trophy? Bumper inserts are a simple way to do this, as are Lemans stripes and rocker strips. Or maybe you'd even like to sport an AmericanMuscle decal and let everybody know where you got all this great stuff to add to your Pony? Just a suggestion.

I want a new car for Christmas

After Christmas Sale

All I want for Christmas is a shinny New Car wrapped in a bow. No better time than the present to get a present for you or a loved one. Car sales are down and dealers past hungry and moved to starving for sales. They are willing to deal like never before. If you have been waiting for the right time, its NOW. End of year sales are going on at every dealership country wide. Take advantage of this great opportunity to put a smile on someones face this holiday season. Is there a better gift idea ?

1996 Chrysler Sebring the key is stuck in the ignition

Question:

I only had 1 key to my 1996 Chrysler sebring, so about a month ago I went to a local locksmith and they made me a copy of the original key. I am not for sure, but I am guessing that my original key has a chip in it because it is a factory or dealership key w/ black top. My sebring is equipped with the anti-theft system, of which when I purchased the car used, I did not receive the key-less remote to. Anyways, my question or problem is this: I have been using the copy key for the entire month with no problems until a week ago...the key is stuck in the ignition on acc. and will NOT turn all the way to lock so I can get it out! It is STUCK and WILL NOT COME OUT!!!! What could be causing this and how do I get it out? Is it because it isn't the chip key and if so how could I use it before now without any issues? HELP!!!!



ANSWER:

Any Chrysler's keys with a black top do not have a chip, they are usual blank keys.
Keys with a chip ( transponder) have a gray top, like this one:




Your anti-theft system contains the switches that are located inside the front doors and when you turn your door lock cylinder ( driver or passenger) a switch send an ON or OFF signal to the Body controller.
Your problem with the stuck key is only mechanical failure of the ignition lock cylinder.
There is nothing related to a "chip" technology.
You should replace the ignition lock cylinder.

Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss

Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss, originally uploaded by jarapet.

Advice on Questions to Ask When Buying A Car

2009 Smart fortwo

When Purchasing a New Vehicle there are a few things you may wish to do before walking into the car dealer. Know the questions to ask when buying a car. Be sure you are prepared with all the information you can get. Spend time deciding what it is you want and stick to it. There are a few tips listed below to help you prepare for your next vehicle purchase.

The best advice I can give you is to take your time when looking for a car, and don't make any rash, emotional car buying decisions.
Every car salesman you come into contact with will have only one thing on his or her mind; to get you to buy a car "today!" These people work under the assumption that you will never come back, so they have to close the deal while you're in there the first time.
Don't give into the pressure. Take your time and sleep on it . . . for several nights! You'll be amazed at how different your perspective will be on a car deal after a couple of days.
Don't let the car salesperson talk you into giving them any .... read more

Blower Motor is rubbing and vibrating the whole dash board

Question:

I have a 2003 Chevy Impala and the blower motor is rubbing on something and it vibrates the whole dashboard bad can i fix this and how?

Answer:

You can fix it by replacing it with a new one, but make sure the one that is already in there has all the retaining screws (no empty holes). I have added the replacement procedures below.

Heater System Blower Motor
Removal & Installation

To Remove:
1) Remove the insulator from under the right side of the dash.
2) Disconnect the electrical connector from the blower motor.
3) Remove the blower motor retaining screws.
4) Remove the blower motor.

To Install:
1) Install the blower motor.
2) Install the blower motor mounting screws.
3) Connect the electrical connector to the blower motor.
4) Install the under dash insulator.

BMW Z4

BMW Z4, originally uploaded by jarapet.

Volvo S60

Volvo S60, originally uploaded by jarapet.

theft system has locked my car down can't start it. took battery

theft system has locked my car down can't start it. took battery cables of for a few minutes, but did not help. 97 Cadillac Deville. let sit four hours, took positive cable off battery for a while, now my battery is dead used another car and booster cables for battery no luck

Answer:

There is a problem with the "passkey ll " system. The best way to diagnose that would be the "interrogator" tool. Most lock smiths will have that. There are 13 different resistance values in the diodes, (in the key) and most times it is a problem with the ignition switch sending the correct information to the decoder module.

The best thing to do would be to get a lock smith to come and check it. They will normally charge about $65, which is less than the dealer, minus the tow charge. They will pinpoint what part is needed.

heater blowing cold air

I have a 2001 Ford Windstar that blow out cold air in the front. car has 2 blowers, front and rear. rear blows out warm air front blows out cold. noise comes from inside dash
Answer:
The Hot/Cold blend door actuator is stripped out. This is why you hear a noise and why it won’t move to hot air flow. Have it replaced.

Where can you find free online auto repair manuals ?

You Found it !!! The place online that you can get automotive repair manual information FREE !!! Just submit the vehicle information you want and we will email it to you. We can not, of course, send you a full blown copy of a repair manual due to copy right laws and publisher disapproval. But, we can send you specific sections or parts of a manual.This is a free service that is here to help those that need it. To Submit a request for free information apply Here, As this is a free service it receives an overwhelming amount of requests and may take up to a week or longer for a response.

Free Online Auto Repair Manuals

Audi TT

Audi TT, originally uploaded by jarapet.

Audi S8

Audi S8, originally uploaded by jarapet.

The Team

The Team, originally uploaded by Big Shot Dan.

I have a 1996 GMC truck that has a p0154 code

Question:

I have a 1996 GMC 350 truck that has a p0154 code replace the o2 sensor.It was bank 2 sensor 1 replace. The code came up the same what could it be?

Answer:

The computer is not seeing any action from the drivers side front oxygen sensor. Either you changed the wrong sensor or the wire from the sensor to the computer is damaged somewhere.

MERCEDES SL 65 AMG BLACK SERIES

MERCEDES SL 65 AMG BLACK SERIES, originally uploaded by jarapet.

MERCEDES SL 65 AMG BLACK SERIES (II)

MERCEDES SL 65 AMG BLACK SERIES (II), originally uploaded by jarapet.

Chevrolet Corvette C1

Chevrolet Corvette C1, originally uploaded by Nicars-06.

I have a 2002 Chevy Silverado Reg Cab 1500 and I changed the battery but it still doesn't start.

First determine what it is or isn't doing.

1) Engine turns over, but will not start
2) Engine does not turn over when attempting to start (nothing Happens except the lights do come on)
3) Clicks Once
4) Clicks repeatedly
5) No lights, no noise.... nothing
6) Starter motor spins, but does not engage

Then diagnose properly. Car won't start Diagnostics

Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder

Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, originally uploaded by jarapet.

Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder

Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, originally uploaded by jarapet.

How to change rear brake pads on a 2001 Mazda Miata

Question:
How to change rear brake pads on a 2001 Mazda Miata. I can't get the caliper to fully retract so I can put on the new pads.

Answer:
Sometimes you need to remove the brake fluid reservoir cap. This will allow the fluid to move so the caliper piston can be compressed. This happens when fluid has been added at any point.

Brake Replacement Step by Step with Photos

Drifting in the races

RBWDC 'Sunday Set' // Kinod Photography, originally uploaded by coldtrackdays.com.

Ford gt camilo pardo

Ford gt camilo pardo, originally uploaded by jarapet.

See more in motorpasion

I have a 89 ford escort that has been setting for 10 years.

Question:
I have a 89 ford escort that has been setting for 10 years. want to get it going again but am having brake problems. Replaced brake booster. both rear wheel cylinders and shoes, both front calipers, master cylinder and cleaned the lines and I still don't have good brakes. I have to stand hard on the brake pedal to stop but it will not stop as fast as it should. Could it be the brake pressure control valves locates on the bottom of the master cylinder or is it something else. It just doesn't stop like it should in case of need to.

Answer:
Below is are quick diagnostic steps for hard brake pedal. You have done most everything but we need to take it a step further. Either the new booster is bad(it happens) or you do not have sufficient vacuum at the booster most likely caused by an engine vacuum leak. Since the car has been setting for some time it is more than possible for there to be cracked hoses, etc that are creating a vacuum leak. A higher idle than normal is a classic description of a vacuum leak.

Brake pedal feel is firm, but brakes lack sufficient stopping power or fade
1) Check the operation of the brake booster and brake booster check valve. Replace worn or failed parts.
2) Check brake linings and brake surface areas for glazing and replace worn or damaged parts.
3) Check for seized hydraulic parts and linkages, and clean or replace as needed.

Porsche Panamera

Porsche Panamera, originally uploaded by jarapet.

Volvo S60

Volvo S60, originally uploaded by jarapet.

Hamann Volcano Based on Mercedes Mclaren SLR

How much torque does a volcanic eruption have? Well, it does indeed take a lot of steam to melt rocks and push the lava straight up through the earth's crust and Hamann-Motorsport does a good job of rivaling that with their own Volcano.

The Hamann Volcano is a supersized version of what is already one of the world's most renowned supercars - the Mercedes McClaren SLR. Hamann technicians were able to boost the Mercedes Benz 5.4 liter, 626 hp, 780 Nm V8 and take its performance to 700 hp and 830 Nm of torque at 3,300 rpms; giving the Hamann a 0-100 km/h time of only 3.6 seconds.

But performance is also improved by aerodynamics, with the addition of new lift-reducing wing extensions in both the front and the rear as well as new side skirt attachments and sheathings.

Interiors also get yet another luxurious do-over. It includes aluminium pedals, foot-rests, door sills, head-rests and floomats with the Hamann logo and the use of the top-quality material Alcantara for custom center console and dashboard parts.

Subaru Forester Mountain Rescue Concept at SEMA

Since 1974 Subaru has been a well known brand to skiers and ski communities thanks to the all-weather traction advantages of 4-wheel-drive. As a result, Subaru is honoring the men and women of Ski Patrol teams who risk their lives to rescue skiers and snowboarders by presenting the Mountain Rescue Forester Concept, the ultimate first responder vehicle equipped with trail-driving capability and essential rescue gear.

Co-developed with Detroit-based Specialized Vehicles the Mountain Rescue Forester Concept is based on the Forester 2.5XT turbo crossover and features 14 inches of ground clearance (8.9 in. standard) via an Air Lift custom adjustable ride height air suspension system. Increased traction is provided by Yokohama Geolandar MTS 30 x 9.5-in. tires on custom-reversed 15-in. Subaru steel wheels.

Other features include custom front and rear skid plates, grille guard, fender flares, lower door cladding, a rear gate guard and tail light guards, LED emergency lighting package, 9500-lb. winch, remote rear door openers and external quick-access utility compartments, Yakima ski carriers and rescue toboggan.

AC Schnitzer X6 Falcon

AC Schnitzer present X6 Falcon - a project largely following the styling features seen on the recently-launched new X5 of the same name. The newest predator in its namesake's valley territory, AC Schnitzer are keen to point out the X6 Falcon's parallels to its bird of prey counterpart. Broad wings are however where the name originates, but such characteristics go more than skin deep.

Tthe X6 Falcon has been painstakingly 'adapted to its habitat', undergoing numerous laps of Nurburgring testing by engineers, namely to fine tune the set up of the AC Schnitzer springs. The result: traction even at speeds only achievable by a falcon in 'nosedive'. The styling package was designed for 'downforce instead of lift' and includes front and rear skirt, moved fog lamps and a contoured spoiler edge.

Instead of protection to the underbody and 'submarining', a rear diffuser and spoiler has been added, while skirts are now body-coloured so as the body appears more drawn down. We'll avoid calling the alloy wheels the 'legs' of the falcon like AC Schnitzer, but nonetheless it is AC Schnitzer 22-inch alloy wheels Type Vll, available in black or silver, that complement this new look.

AC Schnitzer Racing Design have given the Falcon an exhaust system to shout about, providing excellent resonance for its equally well-performing range of engines, enhanced by Control Unit. Two diesel units, the 30d and 35d, are enhanced from 235 hp and 286 hp to 272 hp and 310 hp respectively.

GTstreet R based on Porsche 911 Turbo by TechArt

TechArt continues its re-inventions of Porsche supercars. Just last spring TechArt presented the GTstreet RS, its specialised version of the Porsche 911 GT2. Now, its latest creation is based on the 911 Turbo which TechArt, located in the same region of Germany as Porsche, has turned into one impressive performer. As if the 911 Turbo wasn't one already.

The GTstreet R comes fitted with TechArt's performance kit TA097/T3, which sounds like something out of a science-fiction movie. What all those letter and numbers mean is 660 hp and a maximum torque of 860 Nm at 4,600 rpm for this re-imagined 911 Turbo. Coupled with Porsche's Tiptronic S transmission, it takes the GTstreet R a mere 3.4 seconds to reach 100km/h.

TechArt takes the 911 Turbo's standard 3.6 liter turbocharged engine and boosts its performance with new turbochargers, special intercoolers and a host of other technological tidbits that make this horse run a lot faster.

Top speed: 345 km/h (214mph).

TechArt Aerokit I for Porsche 911 MY 2009

TechArt has updated its 997 Aerokit I package for the facelifted 2009 model year Porsche 911 Carrera. Besides a new front lower lip spoiler, the kit maintains the overall same appearance but is cut different to accommodate the newly shaped signal lamps and tail lamps.

As always, TechArt wind tunnel tests everything, even for the slightest of changes like this modest facelift.

Other changes include chrome trim on the front bumper air inlets, newly designed decorative trims for the exterior mirror – varnished, in carbon fibre or a new chrome finish – as well as headlight trim.