Hi all,

I'm having fun (loosely termed...) with my Escort van.

Yesterday for the first time it wouldn't start very easily on the key, after around half an hour of trying time and again, gently, forcefully, all kinds of trying, she eventually got there...

The issue was that the key wasn't engaging with anything so I am assuming my barrel needs replacing?

So, today, same problem, except this time there really is no joy, no lucky sweet-spot, no ignition, nothing...off comes the column housing!

I've managed to remove the ignition switch and with two keys (one in ignition, one in the switch itself) I can get the engine to turn over and all seems fine...

However...

I still can't release the steering lock! So, what to do now?

I realise I'll need a new ignition barrel/keys, but if I can get the steering lock to disengage then at least I can drive to a mechanic to have the work done, otherwise im stick needing a flatbed to trailer me away...

Any help or advice would be much appreciated!

Thanks for listening,

Richey

I'd like to point out that I am the legal keeper of the van, not some dodgy chav looking for theft tips! ;)

snap it.....

if you was a theif you snap it anyway lmao

Is that not a bit drastic?

How would I go about doing that without ruining the van?!

Richey

given that the steering lock is there for a security purpose, i would think the only way to remove it while its locked is to snap it anyway?

not really stef, but for obv reasons not going get anymore info lol....

Ok, that's helpful...

So there is a way to do this? Do I just need to prove to somebody that im genuine for at least a hunt of how it could be done?!

Happy to provide photos of b4 if necessary...to the right helpful person!

Any help moderators?

RicheyRichey

pics, req of vehicle. pic of log book etc..... then maybe

there are ways around everything my friend ;-)

not really stef, but for obv reasons not going get anymore info lol....

yes true, and to be honest if this thread was to gain much more info on disabling the steering lock it would be removed anyway.

To the OP,

unfortunately this forum will not give out any information on removing such a security device through the public forum or private messages for obvious reasons

Agreed, I would advise you call a recovery vehicle and have your log book and driving license with picture, then you should be able to get the help or services you require.

Can anyone give me an idea as to the cost I'm likely to endure to replace the ignition barrel by a mechanic?

I'm assuming that the work I need to rectify the steering lock issue is something most mechanics will be knowledgeable of?

Will it be a hugely expensive labour charge?

Depends, to replace the barrell itself, your probably looking at about £150 with labour I expect (at a guess), as for the steering lock, probably a couple of hundred?

Cant really say for definite though, you should ring around and get quotes before committing though...

Can anyone give me an idea as to the cost I'm likely to endure to replace the ignition barrel by a mechanic?

if you have a barrel and a little patience approx 30-45 mins all in. if coloum etc is stripped about 10-15mins no need got to a spanner

I have a family friend mechanic, but if I can do it myself without having to get him to come to me at least then I'd be happy, really I just need to get the steering lock off otherwise he's going to have to get hold of a flatbed truck and come to collect the van, I'd rather spend that kinda money on a new gearbox!

Can understand what you mean mate, but of course due to the very nature of the question, it would be against the forum's best interests as a group or individuals to talk you through the process of knocking out the security systems. A bit of time trawling google should give you some information on what you need to do, and if your happy to take a chance, then go for it.

if you can post up sufficent info that its ur vehicle, i carnt see why not....... insurance, mot, log book just to start off with....

if you can post up sufficent info that its ur vehicle, i carnt see why not....... insurance, mot, log book just to start off with....

im not really sure that posting that on the public forum would be a good idea to be fair

good point....... my epic fail lol

I wouldn't post those on the forum, but if there's someone affiliated to the website itself, a moderator perhaps I would be happy to provide evidence that it is mine, registered to my girlfriend at my home address, etc...

Big question...do I really need a steering lock?

Would it be stupid to break it bearing in mind repair costs/can they be unlocked by a mechanic easily?

I would be happy to provide evidence that it is mine, registered to my girlfriend at my home address, etc...

tbf as far as im concerned this could be the woman next door so to speak.......

Regardless of provision of this information, you have to bear in mind, no support should be offered on this thread... I wouldnt really like to come across a thread that talks you through shattering the barrel and security features of the car. Its just a tutorial for those who are less honest than you or I!

It may be that if a mod replied and advised they were sufficiently pleased with the evidence provided that you could only be supported via PM with management consent.