BEST video for this fix that I could find! All of the others I saw had me pulling off the steering wheel and replacing the whole ignition lock module (more time and an additional $75 purchase). Followed this guy's instructions and the problem was solved with ZERO dollars spent! Thank you!!!
Cant thank you enough. Just fixed my husbands truck in about an hour. It has been parked for a week not cranking. Thank you sooo much! My husband is in for a big surprise when he gets home. I see an all expenses paid spa day in my future.
My 2011 wouldn't start for this reason! I found your video, I watched it and then showed it to my husband! Using your advice he was able to fix my vehicle! Thank you so much for making such a understanding video!!😊
I love this video . A family member called with an Escape ignition issue so I went over with a Dremel , a burr , a 5.5 mm socket and driver , and a Leartherman multi tool and had her up and running in 30 minutes , cementing my place as a mechanical genius . Thanks very kindly !!
God bless you for sharing your knowledge with us and posting this video. I have a 2008 Ford Escape that didn't start on morning. I was stressed a bit knowing I don't have the money to take it into a shop to have it fix by some professional. I've watched a handful of videos and gravitated to this video. It took me 3 hours of my time and 11 dollars for the bit to shave down the ignition. IT WORKS ON THE DIME!!!! THANK YOU FROM ALL MY HEART! LOVE AND ALOHA FROM HAWAII!
Thank you for this video, worked great. Some notes. In the 2008 Ford Escape I was working on removing the security ring was not necessary. The release pin was accessible with it on. The press fit retaining ring (4:57) was quite a bit more difficult to get off than in the video, took about 10 minutes to work off, could go faster if one wasn't worried about marring the metal. Main thing is to just slowly keep bending the edge more and more. I used a Dremel and had the most success with the Dremel 455 Chainsaw Sharpening Grinding Stone. I marked the maximum movement of the key, so I could see how much more I could twist the key. 7/32 socket worked since I didn't have a 5.5 mm.
My 2009 Mazda Tribute (same as a Ford Escape) had the same problem. I replaced the ignition switch to no avail. Found this video and followed instructions. 1:45 and all done, works perfectly. Getting that crimped ring off was the worst part, as other have mentioned- about 45 minutes of constant prying with a micro flat head screwdriver- quite tedious as, obviously, the factory never intended that part to be removed. I used a Dremel with a tiny grinding bit instead of the air powered grinder in the video. SO HAPPY FOR THIS VIDEO. A fantastic contribution. Thank you!!!
Not much of a DIY driver myself, did a bit of troubledhooting in my Escape 2008, and after seeing this clip, decided to make a break to save me $$$. Took about 2h. To grind off the metal bump I used the tool my wife uses to trim our dogs nails. Worked an absolute treat! Cant stop thinking I did it all myself! Awesome tip! Well done Waco boys!!,.. Gerry/ Poland
Your remedy for this faulty ignition problem worked flawlessly! My buddy's 08 Escape was intermittently being a pain to start, until a few days ago, it left him stranded at his job. I started searching you tube for answers, and found your channel. Within 2 minutes of getting the bottom cover off, I had the car running. I drive it home, took the ignition key lock out, followed your instructions and within 40 minutes I had it all back together and it starts every time now. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with the public. I'm sure that this saved him many hundreds of dollars, including if it needed to be towed to the ford dealer!
What a legend! I was late for work this morning trying to get the car started, and then waiting 30 minutes after work to get the car started to come home. In 2 hours I completed Fred's fix and car all put back together and good to go. Thanks Fred! Legend!
So good of you to show this fix. I know that it takes extra effort and time to video this fix. You deserve many kudos for helping out people that you don't even know. Thank you !!!!!!!!!!
This repair procedure worked perfectly and cost me nothing!!! It took about an 2 hrs to complete.. We struggled for a year getting the car to start and was getting worse and worse. It got to the point my wife couldn't get it started at all and that is not GOOD. I took it out and apart, I used a small 4mm endmill and ground the clearance per the video, reassembled, reinstalled. The past 7 months the car starts no problem at all. NO PUSHING IN THE KEY AND TWISTING TO THE POINT YOUR HAND/ WRIST HURTS! Wife is HAPPY. Thanks for the help!!!
So I had this same issue with my 2010 Ford Focus. It turns out that instead of cutting off part of the stop for the key cylinder, it's REALLY EASY to remove and replace the starter switch, which is the module where the harness plugs into on the opposite side of the steering wheel column from where the key goes in. And a new Motocraft (Ford OEM brand) starter switch from Autozone costs only $62 plus tax. With mine I didn't even need to replace the $62 starter switch (yet). All I did was open up the starter switch and clean out all the excess dielectric grease with a few Q-tips and then put it all back together. It was super easy and that has fixed the problem on my car.
Busted ass knuckles and header burns? I trust this dude. 100% serious and not facetious. Thank you for the video. This is what I get to do this weekend. =/
Back after the repair to leave my comment and say thank you!! Wife’s escape did this starting delay for years and always bugged me about fixing it. This fixed the problem. Nice quick starts!! To remove the material in the cylinder, I used a 1/8 inch drill but almost as a mini reamer. Took total about 30 mins. Now time for her to repay the favor .....
Just did this today after spending 200$ on starter. 200$ on ignition housing 80$ on a new tumbler and 37$ on ignition switch… this was the solution I can’t return the parts I bought because I installed them but I’m just glad to have my backup car reliable again.
Great video! This saved me a ton of money. I've been struggling with my truck starting every now and then for about a year. But last week, after being stranded twice and two mechanics telling me how much it would cost and that they couldn't get to it for a couple of days, I researched the issue and I'm glad I came across your video. I decided to attempt your fix on my own. It took a couple of hours but my truck now starts with ease. At the 4:57 mark, removing that ring is not easy. I initially used an extremely thin flathead screwdriver then moved up to bigger sizes once I got it pried open enough. And in the end when placing that ring I used 8in Groove Joint Pliers to secure it as best I could. It took some time and the ring didn't look as smooth as before but I knew that part was going to be covered anyway. And at the 7:05 mark you pointed to one side of the lip to grind but at 8:08 you grinded the other side. I made sure that I grinded the same side you did and it works perfect. Genius!!! Thank you.
just did this today, took an hour or two, 5 bucks worth of carbide bits from harbor freight, skipped the rotary tool and just used my drill, wasa way easier than i initially thought it would be. im a total hack as a mechanic and even i found this simple so basically anyone can do it. thank you for this video, it saved me time, money, and many headaches
Wow, this worked like a charm and it only took me a couple of hours! My 2007 Escape Hybrid was getting harder to start every day until one day it just wouldn’t turn on. I was able to do this with a 6mm socket wrench, utility knife and a few screwdrivers. Pulling off the ring took the longest but I just kept at it with a small gauge flat screwdriver. Instead of the power grinder I just used the sharp blade of some metal sheers to grind back that groove by hand. I only shaved off a few millimeters but it made a big difference and the car starts easily again. Probably saved me several hundred 💸. Thanks!
You sir are a genius I had to mess with my key for 20 minutes to start my car but I used your trick and had it back together in 45 minutes and it works flawlessly. Thank you so much for shareing this trick.
Guys...call a locksmith..this is at best,, a very very temporary fix.... the housing on the column is shot...!! that is why it requires key switch to turn farther to get results....
Had replaced just the switch on the left 6 months ago. Started acting up again. Ran across this video while researching taking the whole column apart to replace the rest of the assembly. This fix literally took less than 30 minutes and worked like a charm. I am a hero now. Thank you sir.
Thank you very much! My recently widowed Mother couldn't afford to pay for the repair. I followed your instructions and it now works perfectly. If you open a shop in Minnesota, you will have a customer!
I watched your video tutorial about 20 times, and this afternoon, I finally dug in and fixed my ignition problem. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and experience--and so clearly, too. I’ll be sure to pay your good deed forward. Best to you.
@@bobrich1950 Yes, my ignition is still firing up after all this time. And, no, it wasn’t hard to get the outer ring back on. I just secured the cylinder in a lightly squeezed clamp (as seen in the vid) and crimped the ring back with a flathead screwdriver and needle nose pliers. Good luck, Bob!
It would save me another 100 bucks if I found this video earlier. The ignition problem happened in my 2008 Escape in 2018. I assumed that it should be the old ignition switch issue after searching online, so I bought and replaced the ignition switch which is very easy to do. That worked for about two years then the problem was back again. So I replaced the switch again, but this time it worked only about 1 year before same problem came back. Two switches cost me more than $100, and it seems like endless spending, I began to think if that is a real solution. Now I am so happy to have found this video. I completed the job following the instructions in little more than an hour, the result is very satisfying. I noticed that some reviews were posted 4 years ago, so this fix should be the real solution. I believe that Ford could make some improvements on their ignition switch to avoid the ignition failure that could be fatal in some situations. Many many thanks to this excellent video.
Wow. I didn't think I'd be able to do it, and at one point I started second-guessing myself and wishing I hadn't even tried in the first place, but your video helped me get the repair done. I cannot thank you enough for sharing this. Saved me hundreds of dollars and all it took was a few hours of labor. You are a blessing!
Hey Fred......YOU ROCK!!!! I can’t thank you enough. If ever around my way, I’ll treat ya to the best bbq, EVER!!! Thank you very much for sharing this mod. This was my daughter in laws car and my son asked “did you do that trick you showed me on UA-cam?” I said, “son, knowledge isn’t a trick”!! Thanks again buddy!!
how on earth were you able to pry the ring/cap off the cylinder? it is my cylinder at fault because i have already replace the column lock (the linkage from key cylinder to the electronic box), and the electronic box itself. some tape around the end of the key cylinder worked for a while until the heat fouled that. currently a spliced in momentary switch is my get-by until someone knows how to get that ring/cap off.
I've got a 2000 model Escape. The key is hard to turn, especially into the engine crank position (need pliers). So I took out the barrel and realised the key turns like butter and after sticking pliers in to the back of the hole the barrel came out of and tested how hard it was to turn the cam, I realised the cam is hard to turn. I'm wondering if it's the cam itself or maybe the switch. I think the cam physically moves things in the switch and so it could be either that needs lubricating. A few hours ago I sprayed a heap of lubricant and canned air at the same time through tiny holes that are in the back of the barrel hole. It hasn't freed it up yet. I'll give it a few more sprays over the next few days and if it doesn't free it up I guess it's either a new switch or a whole new assembly. It looks like it's going to be a royal pain to undo the headless bolts if I have to replace the whole assembly.
Sir, I’m a fellow Texan and Mechanic from way back who’s not afraid to take on anything and this was pure genius. My daughters 2008 ford Escape had this problem for years and she actually developed a rather strong right arm having to push the key in while turning the key, but I came across this vid and thought I would give it a try. I just bought a carbide tip like you had and just used a regular drill. Took about an hr. And all is good. Thanks so much for putting this video together you guys did an amazing job and I’m very thankful. Have a great holiday.
I've been dealing with this issue for quite some time. I replaced the ignition switch and lock cylinder and it still wouldn't work without doing the "tape trick". now I can't get it started at all... You know how you can remove the ignition switch from its place while keeping it plugged in, stick a flathead in there and manually turn it to run to get the car started as long as key is in the ignition for the PATS security ring to recognize it? mine won't even start when I do that and I can't figure out why. its driving me crazy.
Thank you very much for this video. My wife was the only one who could start the truck with two hands on the key, shaking the hell out of it and whole bunch of cursing. Now it’s like brand new. My son is also very grateful. He can start driving it again.
I never comment on anything on UA-cam. I was having the same problem with my wife’s 2009 escape and went down the UA-cam wormhole and seen this video. One of if not the only video that doesn’t require any type of cost for this type of fix. Good on you guys. Need more mechanics like you. Did exactly what you did in the video, now it cranks like new. Can’t thank you enough for making this video.
Like some people I thought I was gonna snap a key here lately.... trying to convince the car to start.... did this whole process took me like 30 minutes..... car cranked right up no excessive force or pushing/pulling/wishing required. Thank you sir!
I was skeptical of this video because he had clearly pulled the screws out for removing the trim pieces but it made perfect sense. I read several comments as well and people kept talking about how thankful they were to find this video. I followed it and instantly everything worked perfect. Really easy to do and glad to no longer fight to get the car started.
My 2008 AWD Ford Escape Hybrid has the same issue. After watching this video I removed the key cylinder from the housing and removed enough from the inside of the housing for the key to turn about 20 degrees more. Moreover, once this cylinder is removed, you can troubleshoot if this issue is your problem by inserting the key cylinder without the housing to connect with the inner slot while having the key reader in place, if you can crack the vehicle with no problem then your issue is the same as this video goes over. Just to note, I used a Dremel with a tungsten carbide bit to remove the metal inside the key housing. No issues grinding and smooth grind finish. After reinstalling the key lock, easy crank every time!
Just did mine. Agree with Skip, below, getting the Ring-off takes a bit of time and perseverance..ahh..but the end result -- SUCCESS !! Thanks a ton, Fred's Auto Waco !! You Saved me five hours of work and a 650.00 part I didn't have to buy. Total cost to do mine: THREE DOLLARS, for the 5.5MM socket.
Thank you so much! Shop quoted my wife $350 today. Took me an hour after watching this video. FYI to anybody watching, prying that metal ring off sucks. I have a 2008 Escape and this worked. Used a dremel with the same bit as this video.
Amazing! Thank you SO much. Took less than an hour, no parts just my time. Was quoted $500 just for parts! Absolute genius fix, so easy. Cant thank you enough....
Mr Waco! I want to thank you very very much for your tutorial on the Ford ignition. I kept telling my husband that he needs to buy a new ignition switch and a new ignition lock housing for my Ford Escape that I viewed on another video. He said, “Waaaiiit!!!” He said Mr. Waco has a better idea on fixing the ignition problem. Of course I did not believe my husband until I saw your video and read your reviews. My husband grinded the inner ignition housing as you mentioned. After he re-installed the ignition he then turned the ignition switch and my suv started right up. He turned the key several times to make sure engine would start. I cooked my husband a rib-eye steak for fixing my Ford Escape. Again, I thank you Mr Waco!
Just completed the repair on my 2010 Escape. Note: Used a 7/32 socket on a nut driver to remove the 3 screws on the lower cover by hand. A small tip straight slot screw driver worked better for depressing the tab to remove the ignition switch. Removing the metal bezel from the front of the ignition key cylinder was the most difficult part. Mine was hardened steel and a very tight fit it was difficult to bend the flange with a screw driver. I didn't have a vice so used 2 Channel Lock Pliers to hold the key cylinder. One with pipe grip jaws which is better for holding the cylinder. First rotated the bezel with the pliers to loosen it a bit then used the flat screw driver leveraging on the pliers to prey off the bezel. I used a Dremel Tool with a straight bit to grind out the flange. Once together for the final test the Security Ring must be in place for the car to start, mentioned in the video. Without the Security ring on, it will act like it's still not working. I replaced the LS1258 ignition switch 3 years ago. It worked until recently. Tried a new ignition switch again, prior to watching this video, which didn't work at all. I was able to return the $54 switch. Great video, this was the fix. Thanks
I had this issue with a 2008 Ford Escape. I followed the video and it worked like charm. Took me about an hour. I was worried I would mess it up initially. Turned out to be easy solution. Thank you for the help.
After replacing module on the other side of steering wheel twice, I came upon your video and after 25 minutes and a bit of work the problem is solved!! The small, chrome ring holding the inner lock inside the cylinder was the hard part for me, (5:00 mark) it was a lot harder to pry off then in your video, but It finally came off with some careful persistence, and putting it back on and properly crimping the edges again is important for a tight fit. THIS is a perfect example of the power of UA-cam...my dealer had quoted me upwards of $750 to repair this...THANKS FOR POSTING THIS, I WOULD NOT HAVE HAD THE CONFIDENCE TO EVEN TRY WITHOUT YOUR GUIDANCE!! '09 MARINER STARTS EVERY TIME NOW.... LIKE IT IS SUPPOSED TO...
Great little trick. I filed the stop on the top of the cylinder as I didn’t have a dremel. It did the same thing as it allowed the key to turn further. Worked like a charm. The ring around the cylinder did take a while to remove.
Great modification for this poorly designed ignition switch system! Like others on here I had replaced the ignition switch a few months back and the problem came back quickly. I was thinking about doing the housing and all the rest when I ran across this video. Less than two hours later and it starts perfectly. The hardest part of the job is getting the metal ring off and then getting it back into place snugly. Just takes some patience.
Thanks so much! Shop quoted 600$ and I bought the switch ignition sensor and replaced it within 20 minutes and it immediately fixed and will crank without any additional pressure. You saved me 600$ !!! The part I bought costed 60$ Thank you! 😮
Thanks for posting this video. I looked at other videos for "solution" to this problem but many involved taking off practically half the steering wheel or buying new parts. Still, I had the gut feeling that your ignition hack may just work. And it did!!! I can't thank you enough.
You are the man!!! Followed your video after my daughter spent 1,000 dollars on prior repairs for the same issue and it started right up. I only spent 10.00 dollars in a dremmel bit. Thank you my friend.
Well, after putting this repair off for several months, with the ignition taking longer and longer to engage, my 2008 Escape finally wouldn't start this morning when taking my daughter out for breakfast. An hour later, following these instructions and using a dremel and a drill bit to grind, the car starts on each and every turn of the key, and we were on our way to the restaurant!! The hardest part, as others have noted, was getting the retaining ring off. Can't thank you enough for posting this video!!!! Got any tricks for replacing an alternator on a 2010 Mini Cooper, my next project, lol.
Thank you very much for taking the time to make this video. My niece's 2009 Ford Escape been having this issue for a long time, and I couldn't figure it out until now. All I've been telling her is to just turn the key a little bit harder to get it started -- now I know where the problem is at... thanks a bunch for sharing this with everyone.
Thank you so much for posting this. I was skeptical at first not sure if this was going to solve my issue. I talked with a few people at work and they said it makes sense. After reading all of the comments I decided this would work. Not bad of a job, had a hard time getting the cylinder back in when I was done. It did the trick, thanks again for posting this!!!!! You are the man!!!!!!!!
This is probably the best video I have seen compare to others where they encourage you to buy the whole system. This cuts corners to the simple solution and I am greatful and so far so good. Thanks to Fred's Auto Waco.
Totally worked! THANK YOU. Getting that crimped ring off was the toughest part, took me an hour. It was crimped so well that there was no place to get a pry point started. Eventually I used the same grinding tool (comes into use later in the process) to cut a starting point into the ring in a couple of places. While this wasn't great, at least, with lots of patience and persistence, I was finally able to get a spot started. After that the process was just like the video. NOTE: when he first talks about taking "about an eight" off, he points to the 9-o'clock side of the housing (using the tab as 12-o'clock reference. However, the actual grinding is on the 3-o'clock side, which makes sense cause that's the direction the key is going to travel when trying to start the car. Pay close attention so that you grind the correct side.
Daughter's car was doing this periodically so I gave this fix a try. Wanted to test it out before reattaching everything and it wouldn't start at all. I panicked thinking I made a bad problem worse! After a half an hour of trying different things I realized I didn't snap the security ring on. Once I did that it started right up. Whew! Thank you for a great video and the step by step instructions. I just wish I would have follow them thoroughly at the get go.
Great UA-cam!!! My sons Escape was having this same issue, so my friend and I took it apart and we did exactly what your video suggest, and it worked!!! I was so faithful for this to be the answer, and sure enough!! Thank you for taking the time to figure this out!
Well I didn't save $1,500, but that's because I guess the dealership can now just replace the ignition lock module without replacing the entire steering wheel. But I did save $785, which is what the dealership quoted me to fix this issue. They were going to replace the ignition lock module and they said they would probably have to program a Brand New key. I brought it over to a friend's house and we worked on it for maybe 2 hours following the video. I was a little concerned because I have a 2008 Ford escape not a 2010 Ford escape but the only difference was that my ignition has a Halo ring at the end of it that was not in the video but that was not a big issue. This worked like a charm and I cannot thank you enough for posting this video you saved me almost $800 that I can now spend on my vacation. Thank you so much!
Sir! I just tried it! It took me hours because we didn't have the proper tools. The drilling was done with an electric nail filer but it did the trick. Thank you so much. 💓
Out of all the videos on you tube the one i never thought would work was yours. But i tried everything and i figured I had nothing to lose.. I was amazed to how well this worked Its the greatest fix ive ever seen nd thank you for that.
I had this problem i took some ac coil cleaner the foaming kind and sprayed it in the ignition cylinder started right up after days not working and starts easier then it has in a few years
Great tip I highly recommend this. Have had starting problems on my 09 Scape for 2 years. Last Sat it was no workie no more. Saw this during a google search. Ford dealer had quoted $650 for switch replacement. Did this fix in bout 3 hrs. using a Dremel Moto Tool and straight fluted cutter bit. Hardest task was prying the lock ring off. Just takes some time and care. I removed about 3/16 material which added about 15 degrees to the key rotation and it works like a charm. Total cost $0.00.
Thank you so much!! Your video was right on point! Your entire description of steps was perfect except how to get that little cover off the key cylinder. lol. Saved me thousands!
Waco guy, you are a gentleman and a scholar, this worked great for my 2010 Escape! It took about 3 hours, worst part was trying to pry off the trim ring that holds all of the innards together. But once I made it past that, a Dremel tool with a carving bit cut right into the pot metal. I crimped on the trim ring gently in case the issue comes up again. Now it starts every time and I'm not sweating when I try to leave for work and the truck won't start.
Thanks, the ole explorer has had key issues since we got it second hand. Recently, been using the auto start to bypass the key issue, but that suddenly started throwing an error today. This vid sorted it all out at the cost of a little elbow grease and some expletives. Many thanks.
You sir are an animal! Thank you very much. Easy fix, took me less than 40 minutes including cleanup. Works like a charm. No pushing or wiggling, all we do now is turn the key and it fires right up! Thank you again.
Must admit I was incredibly dubious about this technique. 40 minutes from start to finish later and all doubts were gone. Our non-starting Mazda Tribute now cranks with a simple twist like new every time. Thank you so much for posting this very helpful video!
You sir, are a gentleman and a scholar. Thanks for taking the time to post this. You've saved myself and tons of other people thousands of dollars. If I lived in Texas I'd buy you a beer.
I needed to push the key very hard many times to start my 2008 Escape Hybrid, it was getting to the point that I would need to try to start the car over ten try's and then take a break and try again. I used a Drummel tool to remove the slot just like they showed in the video and now the Escape starts by just turning the key every time. Thanks for posting this amazing video.
I have researched and found that the underlying problem is that the ignition switch module has deteriorated. Thus, turning the key the factory standard amount doesn't engage the starter switch. It is suggested that doing this modification will only be a temporary fix. Eventually, the same problem will resurface. Can someone who did this quite some time ago let me know how long it lasted for you?
I’ve had intermittent problems with it for years, finally stopped working completely. This fixed it. 2009 escape, not one of the Vins included in the recall for this exact issue. Thank you so much!
I used your video, It worked great!!! My wife is very happy with her working car and I am happy because of zero cost!! Wow, we are both happy at the same time!
I just did this yesterday to my 2008 escape and now it starts like a champ. It took me about 1 hr. Hardest part was taking the metal ring holder out and putting it back. Not perfect but at least it holds. I appreciate your video thank you
My '09 Escape had the same issue. I changed the switch 2 years ago, and the problem returned. After using this fix, I'm confident it's fixed for good!!
I did this exact fix to my daughter's 2009 Escape this evening. I used a dremel for the ignition modification. It literally took less than 30 minutes start to finish and worked perfectly. I appreciate this video and you guys for creating it. My daughter has been fumbling around with the key and getting this started for the last two years and I had just had it. As I said above, this worked perfect and was easy. Thanks guys.
Did the work today as the video shows. Worked perfectly. Also took me about and hour and a half. Hardest part is getting that ring off. Here's a hint. Hold the cylinder with a vice grips. Use a pair of plumbers pliers to grip the ring (use a cloth to prevent damage). Twist back and forth and around until loose. Then pop it off! After that the grinding is quick. Just make sure to do the correct side. Thanks so much for a fabulous solution to an annoying problem
🎉 thank you so much!!! I have a 08 escape that has been hard to start for years and it finally half way left me and my family stranded yesterday! So this morning I watched your video did the work(about a hour) and VOILA! Started amazing now! Life saving video lol
I haven't had this problem yet but after researching it I feel like I will. I saved this video and will use it when necessary. Thank you so much for great details and for not just rambling on like so many other youtubers do.
This totally worked on my 2010 Mercury Mariner today. I replaced the switch, and it was even worse. Last time, that fixed it. This time, the old Dremel tool and a burr chewed out that metal ring a little, and we're up and cranking again like a champ! Thanks!
Thx for posting this! I tried the old wrap electrical tape around the ‘D’ shaped nub trick and that lasted about 8 months until the weather heated up and the tape loosened up. This fix looks much more permanent! 5.5 mil otherwise known as 7/32nds ;) Cheers!
Fabulous video... what a great contribution to "how hard can it be" "DIY" movement you've made here! 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid problem solved! Wife thinks I am a genius!
Thanks so much for the post. Ive been dealing with this for about a year now on my escape. I replaced the ignition module about a year ago but never seemed to operate properly after and a few days ago just would not work at all. I purchased a ignition lock cylinder and remembered your video from my previous you tube search prior to replacing the cylinder and took your advice prior to cylinder replacement, works great after the modification. Thanks again.
BEST video for this fix that I could find! All of the others I saw had me pulling off the steering wheel and replacing the whole ignition lock module (more time and an additional $75 purchase). Followed this guy's instructions and the problem was solved with ZERO dollars spent! Thank you!!!
Cant thank you enough. Just fixed my husbands truck in about an hour. It has been parked for a week not cranking. Thank you sooo much! My husband is in for a big surprise when he gets home. I see an all expenses paid spa day in my future.
My 2011 wouldn't start for this reason! I found your video, I watched it and then showed it to my husband! Using your advice he was able to fix my vehicle! Thank you so much for making such a understanding video!!😊
I love this video . A family member called with an Escape ignition issue so I went over with a Dremel , a burr , a 5.5 mm socket and driver , and a Leartherman multi tool and had her up and running in 30 minutes , cementing my place as a mechanical genius . Thanks very kindly !!
You sir, are a genius. This problem plagues nearly all older Fords. Thank you so much, after this quick fix my car is starting like butter now.
God bless you for sharing your knowledge with us and posting this video. I have a 2008 Ford Escape that didn't start on morning. I was stressed a bit knowing I don't have the money to take it into a shop to have it fix by some professional. I've watched a handful of videos and gravitated to this video. It took me 3 hours of my time and 11 dollars for the bit to shave down the ignition. IT WORKS ON THE DIME!!!! THANK YOU FROM ALL MY HEART! LOVE AND ALOHA FROM HAWAII!
Thank you for this video, worked great.
Some notes. In the 2008 Ford Escape I was working on removing the security ring was not necessary. The release pin was accessible with it on. The press fit retaining ring (4:57) was quite a bit more difficult to get off than in the video, took about 10 minutes to work off, could go faster if one wasn't worried about marring the metal. Main thing is to just slowly keep bending the edge more and more.
I used a Dremel and had the most success with the Dremel 455 Chainsaw Sharpening Grinding Stone. I marked the maximum movement of the key, so I could see how much more I could twist the key.
7/32 socket worked since I didn't have a 5.5 mm.
My 2009 Mazda Tribute (same as a Ford Escape) had the same problem. I replaced the ignition switch to no avail. Found this video and followed instructions. 1:45 and all done, works perfectly. Getting that crimped ring off was the worst part, as other have mentioned- about 45 minutes of constant prying with a micro flat head screwdriver- quite tedious as, obviously, the factory never intended that part to be removed. I used a Dremel with a tiny grinding bit instead of the air powered grinder in the video. SO HAPPY FOR THIS VIDEO. A fantastic contribution. Thank you!!!
Not much of a DIY driver myself, did a bit of troubledhooting in my Escape 2008, and after seeing this clip, decided to make a break to save me $$$. Took about 2h. To grind off the metal bump I used the tool my wife uses to trim our dogs nails. Worked an absolute treat! Cant stop thinking I did it all myself! Awesome tip! Well done Waco boys!!,.. Gerry/ Poland
Your remedy for this faulty ignition problem worked flawlessly! My buddy's 08 Escape was intermittently being a pain to start, until a few days ago, it left him stranded at his job. I started searching you tube for answers, and found your channel. Within 2 minutes of getting the bottom cover off, I had the car running. I drive it home, took the ignition key lock out, followed your instructions and within 40 minutes I had it all back together and it starts every time now. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with the public. I'm sure that this saved him many hundreds of dollars, including if it needed to be towed to the ford dealer!
What a legend! I was late for work this morning trying to get the car started, and then waiting 30 minutes after work to get the car started to come home. In 2 hours I completed Fred's fix and car all put back together and good to go. Thanks Fred! Legend!
So good of you to show this fix. I know that it takes extra effort and time to video this fix. You deserve many kudos for helping out people that you don't even know. Thank you !!!!!!!!!!
This repair procedure worked perfectly and cost me nothing!!! It took about an 2 hrs to complete.. We struggled for a year getting the car to start and was getting worse and worse. It got to the point my wife couldn't get it started at all and that is not GOOD. I took it out and apart, I used a small 4mm endmill and ground the clearance per the video, reassembled, reinstalled. The past 7 months the car starts no problem at all. NO PUSHING IN THE KEY AND TWISTING TO THE POINT YOUR HAND/ WRIST HURTS! Wife is HAPPY. Thanks for the help!!!
So I had this same issue with my 2010 Ford Focus. It turns out that instead of cutting off part of the stop for the key cylinder, it's REALLY EASY to remove and replace the starter switch, which is the module where the harness plugs into on the opposite side of the steering wheel column from where the key goes in. And a new Motocraft (Ford OEM brand) starter switch from Autozone costs only $62 plus tax. With mine I didn't even need to replace the $62 starter switch (yet). All I did was open up the starter switch and clean out all the excess dielectric grease with a few Q-tips and then put it all back together. It was super easy and that has fixed the problem on my car.
Busted ass knuckles and header burns? I trust this dude. 100% serious and not facetious. Thank you for the video. This is what I get to do this weekend. =/
Back after the repair to leave my comment and say thank you!! Wife’s escape did this starting delay for years and always bugged me about fixing it. This fixed the problem. Nice quick starts!! To remove the material in the cylinder, I used a 1/8 inch drill but almost as a mini reamer. Took total about 30 mins. Now time for her to repay the favor .....
Is that fix still doing the job for you ? How hard was it to put that outer ring back on the cylinder? Thanks
@@bobrich1950 still works perfect. Wasn’t hard at all
Just did this today after spending 200$ on starter. 200$ on ignition housing 80$ on a new tumbler and 37$ on ignition switch… this was the solution I can’t return the parts I bought because I installed them but I’m just glad to have my backup car reliable again.
Great video! This saved me a ton of money. I've been struggling with my truck starting every now and then for about a year. But last week, after being stranded twice and two mechanics telling me how much it would cost and that they couldn't get to it for a couple of days, I researched the issue and I'm glad I came across your video. I decided to attempt your fix on my own. It took a couple of hours but my truck now starts with ease.
At the 4:57 mark, removing that ring is not easy. I initially used an extremely thin flathead screwdriver then moved up to bigger sizes once I got it pried open enough. And in the end when placing that ring I used 8in Groove Joint Pliers to secure it as best I could. It took some time and the ring didn't look as smooth as before but I knew that part was going to be covered anyway. And at the 7:05 mark you pointed to one side of the lip to grind but at 8:08 you grinded the other side. I made sure that I grinded the same side you did and it works perfect. Genius!!! Thank you.
Hello thanks for vid. Worked great . Now all tumbler comes out when cranking key over. Help
just did this today, took an hour or two, 5 bucks worth of carbide bits from harbor freight, skipped the rotary tool and just used my drill, wasa way easier than i initially thought it would be. im a total hack as a mechanic and even i found this simple so basically anyone can do it. thank you for this video, it saved me time, money, and many headaches
Wow, this worked like a charm and it only took me a couple of hours! My 2007 Escape Hybrid was getting harder to start every day until one day it just wouldn’t turn on. I was able to do this with a 6mm socket wrench, utility knife and a few screwdrivers. Pulling off the ring took the longest but I just kept at it with a small gauge flat screwdriver. Instead of the power grinder I just used the sharp blade of some metal sheers to grind back that groove by hand. I only shaved off a few millimeters but it made a big difference and the car starts easily again. Probably saved me several hundred 💸. Thanks!
Thank You!!! This Grandma was able to fix my 2008 Escape today!!!
You sir are a genius I had to mess with my key for 20 minutes to start my car but I used your trick and had it back together in 45 minutes and it works flawlessly. Thank you so much for shareing this trick.
Guys...call a locksmith..this is at best,, a very very temporary fix.... the housing on the column is shot...!! that is why it requires key switch to turn farther to get results....
Had replaced just the switch on the left 6 months ago. Started acting up again. Ran across this video while researching taking the whole column apart to replace the rest of the assembly. This fix literally took less than 30 minutes and worked like a charm. I am a hero now. Thank you sir.
Thank you very much! My recently widowed Mother couldn't afford to pay for the repair. I followed your instructions and it now works perfectly. If you open a shop in Minnesota, you will have a customer!
I watched your video tutorial about 20 times, and this afternoon, I finally dug in and fixed my ignition problem. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and experience--and so clearly, too. I’ll be sure to pay your good deed forward. Best to you.
Is that fix still doing the job for you ? How hard was it to put that outer ring back on the cylinder? Thanks
@@bobrich1950 Yes, my ignition is still firing up after all this time. And, no, it wasn’t hard to get the outer ring back on. I just secured the cylinder in a lightly squeezed clamp (as seen in the vid) and crimped the ring back with a flathead screwdriver and needle nose pliers. Good luck, Bob!
THANK YOU FRED'S AUTO WACO. YOUR VIDEO WAS EXACTLY WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED!
It would save me another 100 bucks if I found this video earlier. The ignition problem happened in my 2008 Escape in 2018. I assumed that it should be the old ignition switch issue after searching online, so I bought and replaced the ignition switch which is very easy to do. That worked for about two years then the problem was back again. So I replaced the switch again, but this time it worked only about 1 year before same problem came back. Two switches cost me more than $100, and it seems like endless spending, I began to think if that is a real solution. Now I am so happy to have found this video. I completed the job following the instructions in little more than an hour, the result is very satisfying. I noticed that some reviews were posted 4 years ago, so this fix should be the real solution. I believe that Ford could make some improvements on their ignition switch to avoid the ignition failure that could be fatal in some situations. Many many thanks to this excellent video.
Wow. I didn't think I'd be able to do it, and at one point I started second-guessing myself and wishing I hadn't even tried in the first place, but your video helped me get the repair done. I cannot thank you enough for sharing this. Saved me hundreds of dollars and all it took was a few hours of labor. You are a blessing!
Hey Fred......YOU ROCK!!!! I can’t thank you enough. If ever around my way, I’ll treat ya to the best bbq, EVER!!! Thank you very much for sharing this mod. This was my daughter in laws car and my son asked “did you do that trick you showed me on UA-cam?” I said, “son, knowledge isn’t a trick”!!
Thanks again buddy!!
how on earth were you able to pry the ring/cap off the cylinder? it is my cylinder at fault because i have already replace the column lock (the linkage from key cylinder to the electronic box), and the electronic box itself. some tape around the end of the key cylinder worked for a while until the heat fouled that. currently a spliced in momentary switch is my get-by until someone knows how to get that ring/cap off.
I've got a 2000 model Escape. The key is hard to turn, especially into the engine crank position (need pliers). So I took out the barrel and realised the key turns like butter and after sticking pliers in to the back of the hole the barrel came out of and tested how hard it was to turn the cam, I realised the cam is hard to turn. I'm wondering if it's the cam itself or maybe the switch. I think the cam physically moves things in the switch and so it could be either that needs lubricating. A few hours ago I sprayed a heap of lubricant and canned air at the same time through tiny holes that are in the back of the barrel hole. It hasn't freed it up yet. I'll give it a few more sprays over the next few days and if it doesn't free it up I guess it's either a new switch or a whole new assembly. It looks like it's going to be a royal pain to undo the headless bolts if I have to replace the whole assembly.
Sir, I’m a fellow Texan and Mechanic from way back who’s not afraid to take on anything and this was pure genius. My daughters 2008 ford Escape had this problem for years and she actually developed a rather strong right arm having to push the key in while turning the key, but I came across this vid and thought I would give it a try. I just bought a carbide tip like you had and just used a regular drill. Took about an hr. And all is good. Thanks so much for putting this video together you guys did an amazing job and I’m very thankful. Have a great holiday.
I've been dealing with this issue for quite some time. I replaced the ignition switch and lock cylinder and it still wouldn't work without doing the "tape trick". now I can't get it started at all... You know how you can remove the ignition switch from its place while keeping it plugged in, stick a flathead in there and manually turn it to run to get the car started as long as key is in the ignition for the PATS security ring to recognize it? mine won't even start when I do that and I can't figure out why. its driving me crazy.
Thank you very much for this video. My wife was the only one who could start the truck with two hands on the key, shaking the hell out of it and whole bunch of cursing. Now it’s like brand new. My son is also very grateful. He can start driving it again.
I never comment on anything on UA-cam. I was having the same problem with my wife’s 2009 escape and went down the UA-cam wormhole and seen this video. One of if not the only video that doesn’t require any type of cost for this type of fix. Good on you guys. Need more mechanics like you. Did exactly what you did in the video, now it cranks like new. Can’t thank you enough for making this video.
Thank you so much! I had my son in law who is way more mechanically inclined than me do this. Fixed no problem! You are a God send!
Like some people I thought I was gonna snap a key here lately.... trying to convince the car to start.... did this whole process took me like 30 minutes..... car cranked right up no excessive force or pushing/pulling/wishing required.
Thank you sir!
I was skeptical of this video because he had clearly pulled the screws out for removing the trim pieces but it made perfect sense. I read several comments as well and people kept talking about how thankful they were to find this video. I followed it and instantly everything worked perfect. Really easy to do and glad to no longer fight to get the car started.
My 2008 AWD Ford Escape Hybrid has the same issue. After watching this video I removed the key cylinder from the housing and removed enough from the inside of the housing for the key to turn about 20 degrees more. Moreover, once this cylinder is removed, you can troubleshoot if this issue is your problem by inserting the key cylinder without the housing to connect with the inner slot while having the key reader in place, if you can crack the vehicle with no problem then your issue is the same as this video goes over. Just to note, I used a Dremel with a tungsten carbide bit to remove the metal inside the key housing. No issues grinding and smooth grind finish. After reinstalling the key lock, easy crank every time!
Just did mine. Agree with Skip, below, getting the Ring-off takes a bit of time and perseverance..ahh..but the end result -- SUCCESS !! Thanks a ton, Fred's Auto Waco !! You Saved me five hours of work and a 650.00 part I didn't have to buy. Total cost to do mine: THREE DOLLARS, for the 5.5MM socket.
Thank you so much! Shop quoted my wife $350 today. Took me an hour after watching this video. FYI to anybody watching, prying that metal ring off sucks. I have a 2008 Escape and this worked. Used a dremel with the same bit as this video.
Amazing! Thank you SO much. Took less than an hour, no parts just my time. Was quoted $500 just for parts! Absolute genius fix, so easy. Cant thank you enough....
Is that fix still doing the job for you ? How hard was it to put that outer ring back on the cylinder? Thanks
Mr Waco! I want to thank you very very much for your tutorial on the Ford ignition. I kept telling my husband that he needs to buy a new ignition switch and a new ignition lock housing for my Ford Escape that I viewed on another video. He said, “Waaaiiit!!!” He said Mr. Waco has a better idea on fixing the ignition problem. Of course I did not believe my husband until I saw your video and read your reviews. My husband grinded the inner ignition housing as you mentioned. After he re-installed the ignition he then turned the ignition switch and my suv started right up. He turned the key several times to make sure engine would start. I cooked my husband a rib-eye steak for fixing my Ford Escape. Again, I thank you Mr Waco!
Just completed the repair on my 2010 Escape. Note: Used a 7/32 socket on a nut driver to remove the 3 screws on the lower cover by hand. A small tip straight slot screw driver worked better for depressing the tab to remove the ignition switch. Removing the metal bezel from the front of the ignition key cylinder was the most difficult part. Mine was hardened steel and a very tight fit it was difficult to bend the flange with a screw driver. I didn't have a vice so used 2 Channel Lock Pliers to hold the key cylinder. One with pipe grip jaws which is better for holding the cylinder. First rotated the bezel with the pliers to loosen it a bit then used the flat screw driver leveraging on the pliers to prey off the bezel. I used a Dremel Tool with a straight bit to grind out the flange. Once together for the final test the Security Ring must be in place for the car to start, mentioned in the video. Without the Security ring on, it will act like it's still not working. I replaced the LS1258 ignition switch 3 years ago. It worked until recently. Tried a new ignition switch again, prior to watching this video, which didn't work at all. I was able to return the $54 switch. Great video, this was the fix. Thanks
I had this issue with a 2008 Ford Escape. I followed the video and it worked like charm. Took me about an hour. I was worried I would mess it up initially. Turned out to be easy solution. Thank you for the help.
After replacing module on the other side of steering wheel twice, I came upon your video and after 25 minutes and a bit of work the problem is solved!! The small, chrome ring holding the inner lock inside the cylinder was the hard part for me, (5:00 mark) it was a lot harder to pry off then in your video, but It finally came off with some careful persistence, and putting it back on and properly crimping the edges again is important for a tight fit. THIS is a perfect example of the power of UA-cam...my dealer had quoted me upwards of $750 to repair this...THANKS FOR POSTING THIS, I WOULD NOT HAVE HAD THE CONFIDENCE TO EVEN TRY WITHOUT YOUR GUIDANCE!! '09 MARINER STARTS EVERY TIME NOW.... LIKE IT IS SUPPOSED TO...
Tried this today on a customer's 2010 Escape, and it worked perfect. Awesome.
Great little trick. I filed the stop on the top of the cylinder as I didn’t have a dremel. It did the same thing as it allowed the key to turn further. Worked like a charm. The ring around the cylinder did take a while to remove.
Great modification for this poorly designed ignition switch system! Like others on here I had replaced the ignition switch a few months back and the problem came back quickly. I was thinking about doing the housing and all the rest when I ran across this video. Less than two hours later and it starts perfectly. The hardest part of the job is getting the metal ring off and then getting it back into place snugly. Just takes some patience.
Thanks so much! Shop quoted 600$ and I bought the switch ignition sensor and replaced it within 20 minutes and it immediately fixed and will crank without any additional pressure. You saved me 600$ !!! The part I bought costed 60$
Thank you! 😮
Thanks for posting this video. I looked at other videos for "solution" to this problem but many involved taking off practically half the steering wheel or buying new parts. Still, I had the gut feeling that your ignition hack may just work. And it did!!! I can't thank you enough.
You are the man!!! Followed your video after my daughter spent 1,000 dollars on prior repairs for the same issue and it started right up. I only spent 10.00 dollars in a dremmel bit. Thank you my friend.
Well, after putting this repair off for several months, with the ignition taking longer and longer to engage, my 2008 Escape finally wouldn't start this morning when taking my daughter out for breakfast. An hour later, following these instructions and using a dremel and a drill bit to grind, the car starts on each and every turn of the key, and we were on our way to the restaurant!! The hardest part, as others have noted, was getting the retaining ring off. Can't thank you enough for posting this video!!!! Got any tricks for replacing an alternator on a 2010 Mini Cooper, my next project, lol.
The ring was a pain to pry off but after 30 minutes I was able to remove it. Now it starts every time and saved me a bunch of cash. Great video 👍
Thank you very much for taking the time to make this video. My niece's 2009 Ford Escape been having this issue for a long time, and I couldn't figure it out until now. All I've been telling her is to just turn the key a little bit harder to get it started -- now I know where the problem is at... thanks a bunch for sharing this with everyone.
Thank you so much for posting this. I was skeptical at first not sure if this was going to solve my issue. I talked with a few people at work and they said it makes sense. After reading all of the comments I decided this would work. Not bad of a job, had a hard time getting the cylinder back in when I was done. It did the trick, thanks again for posting this!!!!! You are the man!!!!!!!!
This is probably the best video I have seen compare to others where they encourage you to buy the whole system. This cuts corners to the simple solution and I am greatful and so far so good. Thanks to Fred's Auto Waco.
Thanks. Worked for my ford. Spent 7 dollars for tools and 1 hour my own labor. Fixed the problem
Totally worked! THANK YOU. Getting that crimped ring off was the toughest part, took me an hour. It was crimped so well that there was no place to get a pry point started. Eventually I used the same grinding tool (comes into use later in the process) to cut a starting point into the ring in a couple of places. While this wasn't great, at least, with lots of patience and persistence, I was finally able to get a spot started. After that the process was just like the video. NOTE: when he first talks about taking "about an eight" off, he points to the 9-o'clock side of the housing (using the tab as 12-o'clock reference. However, the actual grinding is on the 3-o'clock side, which makes sense cause that's the direction the key is going to travel when trying to start the car. Pay close attention so that you grind the correct side.
This really worked! I have been stranded multiple times and this did the trick! Starts right away no pushing the key and jiggling it after this fix!
Daughter's car was doing this periodically so I gave this fix a try. Wanted to test it out before reattaching everything and it wouldn't start at all. I panicked thinking I made a bad problem worse! After a half an hour of trying different things I realized I didn't snap the security ring on. Once I did that it started right up. Whew! Thank you for a great video and the step by step instructions. I just wish I would have follow them thoroughly at the get go.
I’m so grateful that you shared this! Saved me $1000. That is what ford was quoting. I have 2008 Ford Escape and this worked for me.
Great UA-cam!!! My sons Escape was having this same issue, so my friend and I took it apart and we did exactly what your video suggest, and it worked!!! I was so faithful for this to be the answer, and sure enough!! Thank you for taking the time to figure this out!
Well I didn't save $1,500, but that's because I guess the dealership can now just replace the ignition lock module without replacing the entire steering wheel. But I did save $785, which is what the dealership quoted me to fix this issue. They were going to replace the ignition lock module and they said they would probably have to program a Brand New key. I brought it over to a friend's house and we worked on it for maybe 2 hours following the video. I was a little concerned because I have a 2008 Ford escape not a 2010 Ford escape but the only difference was that my ignition has a Halo ring at the end of it that was not in the video but that was not a big issue. This worked like a charm and I cannot thank you enough for posting this video you saved me almost $800 that I can now spend on my vacation. Thank you so much!
Can't say thank you enough, this is a legit fix and took under 30 minutes. You guys are truly awesome!
Sir! I just tried it! It took me hours because we didn't have the proper tools. The drilling was done with an electric nail filer but it did the trick. Thank you so much. 💓
You da Man! Was able to fix my wife's 2010 Mariner Hybrid w/ this fix using my Harbor Freight rotary tool. Thank you for the time to create this.
My son and I just completed his 2011 Ford escape. Starts like a champ. That you sir for the help.
Out of all the videos on you tube the one i never thought would work was yours. But i tried everything and i figured I had nothing to lose.. I was amazed to how well this worked Its the greatest fix ive ever seen nd thank you for that.
I had this problem i took some ac coil cleaner the foaming kind and sprayed it in the ignition cylinder started right up after days not working and starts easier then it has in a few years
Great tip I highly recommend this. Have had starting problems on my 09 Scape for 2 years. Last Sat it was no workie no more. Saw this during a google search. Ford dealer had quoted $650 for switch replacement. Did this fix in bout 3 hrs. using a Dremel Moto Tool and straight fluted cutter bit. Hardest task was prying the lock ring off. Just takes some time and care. I removed about 3/16 material which added about 15 degrees to the key rotation and it works like a charm. Total cost $0.00.
Thank you so much!! Your video was right on point! Your entire description of steps was perfect except how to get that little cover off the key cylinder. lol. Saved me thousands!
Waco guy, you are a gentleman and a scholar, this worked great for my 2010 Escape! It took about 3 hours, worst part was trying to pry off the trim ring that holds all of the innards together. But once I made it past that, a Dremel tool with a carving bit cut right into the pot metal. I crimped on the trim ring gently in case the issue comes up again. Now it starts every time and I'm not sweating when I try to leave for work and the truck won't start.
Thanks, the ole explorer has had key issues since we got it second hand. Recently, been using the auto start to bypass the key issue, but that suddenly started throwing an error today. This vid sorted it all out at the cost of a little elbow grease and some expletives. Many thanks.
You sir are an animal! Thank you very much. Easy fix, took me less than 40 minutes including cleanup. Works like a charm. No pushing or wiggling, all we do now is turn the key and it fires right up! Thank you again.
Must admit I was incredibly dubious about this technique. 40 minutes from start to finish later and all doubts were gone. Our non-starting Mazda Tribute now cranks with a simple twist like new every time. Thank you so much for posting this very helpful video!
You sir, are a gentleman and a scholar. Thanks for taking the time to post this. You've saved myself and tons of other people thousands of dollars. If I lived in Texas I'd buy you a beer.
I needed to push the key very hard many times to start my 2008 Escape Hybrid, it was getting to the point that I would need to try to start the car over ten try's and then take a break and try again. I used a Drummel tool to remove the slot just like they showed in the video and now the Escape starts by just turning the key every time.
Thanks for posting this amazing video.
I have researched and found that the underlying problem is that the ignition switch module has deteriorated. Thus, turning the key the factory standard amount doesn't engage the starter switch. It is suggested that doing this modification will only be a temporary fix. Eventually, the same problem will resurface. Can someone who did this quite some time ago let me know how long it lasted for you?
I’ve had intermittent problems with it for years, finally stopped working completely. This fixed it. 2009 escape, not one of the Vins included in the recall for this exact issue. Thank you so much!
I used your video, It worked great!!! My wife is very happy with her working car and I am happy because of zero cost!! Wow, we are both happy at the same time!
I just did this yesterday to my 2008 escape and now it starts like a champ. It took me about 1 hr. Hardest part was taking the metal ring holder out and putting it back. Not perfect but at least it holds. I appreciate your video thank you
God bless you my friend...and whoever invented the youtube. Saved me good chunk of money and hassle
Thanks for a great tutorial. It worked for my daughters 2012 Ford Escape. Once again, the most difficult part was the shiny stainless key hole cover.
My '09 Escape had the same issue. I changed the switch 2 years ago, and the problem returned. After using this fix, I'm confident it's fixed for good!!
I did this exact fix to my daughter's 2009 Escape this evening. I used a dremel for the ignition modification. It literally took less than 30 minutes start to finish and worked perfectly. I appreciate this video and you guys for creating it. My daughter has been fumbling around with the key and getting this started for the last two years and I had just had it. As I said above, this worked perfect and was easy. Thanks guys.
Did the work today as the video shows. Worked perfectly. Also took me about and hour and a half. Hardest part is getting that ring off. Here's a hint. Hold the cylinder with a vice grips. Use a pair of plumbers pliers to grip the ring (use a cloth to prevent damage). Twist back and forth and around until loose. Then pop it off! After that the grinding is quick. Just make sure to do the correct side. Thanks so much for a fabulous solution to an annoying problem
you may have just helped me finally perform this fix, i have tried and failed twice before to get the ring off.
Jumping on the "You saved me a bunch of money" bandwagon here! Thank you so much for making this video! It worked like a charm in my '08 Escape!
p8ballr what issue were you having? Turning the key several times, lights come on but engine does nothing?
Getting the ring off the cylinder was nearly impossible, but after that, it worked!!! Thanks!
You covered the best of all the video I have watched on this. Pretty common problem the dealers play dumb about.
🎉 thank you so much!!! I have a 08 escape that has been hard to start for years and it finally half way left me and my family stranded yesterday! So this morning I watched your video did the work(about a hour) and VOILA! Started amazing now! Life saving video lol
I haven't had this problem yet but after researching it I feel like I will. I saved this video and will use it when necessary. Thank you so much for great details and for not just rambling on like so many other youtubers do.
this is wonderful! Took my son and me an hour and a half on 10/18/21 to complete this as you instructed. Thank you so very much. 2010 Mariner!
This totally worked on my 2010 Mercury Mariner today. I replaced the switch, and it was even worse. Last time, that fixed it. This time, the old Dremel tool and a burr chewed out that metal ring a little, and we're up and cranking again like a champ! Thanks!
Thx for posting this! I tried the old wrap electrical tape around the ‘D’ shaped nub trick and that lasted about 8 months until the weather heated up and the tape loosened up.
This fix looks much more permanent!
5.5 mil otherwise known as 7/32nds ;)
Cheers!
Gratitude to you. I was able fix mine now. It was irritating yesterday to try starting my car everytime.
Fabulous video... what a great contribution to "how hard can it be" "DIY" movement you've made here! 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid problem solved! Wife thinks I am a genius!
Fred you are the greatest, you just saved me a ton of money on this fix, thank you, John from Pompano Beach, FL
Thanks so much for the post. Ive been dealing with this for about a year now on my escape. I replaced the ignition module about a year ago but never seemed to operate properly after and a few days ago just would not work at all. I purchased a ignition lock cylinder and remembered your video from my previous you tube search prior to replacing the cylinder and took your advice prior to cylinder replacement, works great after the modification. Thanks again.
Omg THANK YOU!!!!! It worked!!! Saved me $750 at the dealership!!!