How do you get into the steering column of a 1997 ford tarus to replace key ignition lock

If it is a different lock cylinder and key than the original, then you will need to use the original lock cylinder and keys. Or have the theft deterrent system reprogrammed to the existing keys that are in the steering column

if the ignition key does not unlock the steering column there is a mechanical problem inside the ignition lock cylinder or column itself. the steering column will have to be disassembled

This is not an easy repair due to anit theft requirements. need to chisel off bolts.

Section 11-04: Steering Column 1997 Probe Workshop Manual REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION Procedure revision date: 05/17/2000
Ignition Switch Lock Cylinder Removal

1. Remove the steering wheel (3600). Refer to the procedure in this section.
   

1. Remove the four lower steering column shroud screws.
   
   
   
   
   

1. Separate the upper and lower steering column shrouds.
   

1. Remove the ignition switch lock cylinder illumination miniature bulb from the lower steering column shroud.
   

1. Remove the upper and lower steering column shrouds.
   

1. Remove the multi-function switch (13K359). Refer to Section 11-05 for the removal and installation procedure.
   

1. If equipped, remove the ignition/shifter interlock cable screw.
   

1. Disconnect the ignition/shifter interlock cable (3F719) from ignition switch lock cylinder (11582).
   

1. Use a chisel to remove the two ignition switch lock cylinder bolts.
   

1. Remove the ignition switch lock cylinder from the steering column.
   

1. Disconnect the ignition key reminder switch electrical connector.
   

1. If necessary, remove the ignition key reminder switch.
   
   
   
   
   

Installation
NOTE: Use new ignition switch lock cylinder bolts. Tighten the bolts until the bolt heads break off. Check for proper ignition switch (11572) operation.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.

The ignition lock assembly contains two components: a lock cylinder to deter theft and an electrical portion that supplies power to electrical components such as the radio, electric windows, and windshield wipers. The electrical portion of the ignition switch also provides power to the starter motor to start the engine.
The ignition lock is an anti-theft device that prevents a vehicle from being driven unless the ignition key is in the ignition switch. If the ignition key is not in the ignition switch, it 's impossible to turn the steering wheel.
To replace the ignition switch cylinder lock, the trim panels around the steering wheel are removed. Then the tamper-proof hardware that attaches the ignition lock assembly to the steering column is removed. The ignition lock assembly is removed from the steering column, and the lock cylinder is replaced. The new ignition lock is reattached to the steering column, and the trim panels are replaced.make sure you dissconect battery first the 1997 had a recall on the ignition switch dont no if the 1995 had a recall if so they will replace for free

remove the steering coloum trim. Turn the key to run position, Press locking button on back of steering coloum housing assembly, Remove lock cylinder, Disconnect the ground strap from lock preload spring ( if equiped ) . Make sure key is still in run position when you reinstall.

If the key is non functional and you cannot turn to run then you will need the tool in this picture

If your Ford Focus is not starting, and you know the battery and alternator are good, the problem could lie in the ignition system. The ignition switch is a whole cylinder inserted into the steering column that connects to the starter motor. When you change an ignition switch, you are also replacing the key.

1. Remove the dashboard panel below the steering column in your car; it should be screwed in place. Remove the steering column's upper cover by releasing its clips with a flat-head screwdriver.
   
2. Look for the audio control switch---a small device sticking out of the steering column that acts like a remote control. If one exists, release the switch's plastic locking tang with the screwdriver, and unplug the electrical connector to remove the switch.
   
3. Loosen the steering column by releasing the locking lever, and remove the steering column's lower cover by pulling out the screws with the screwdriver.
   
4. Use your ignition key to turn the switch to the left---the position that would activate the accessories but not start the car. Insert the screwdriver into the hole in the top of the cylinder to depress the detent spring, and pull out the cylinder with the key inside.
   
5. Insert the new key into the new ignition switch, and line up the switch inside the steering column so it's in the same place the old switch was in when you removed it. Make sure the detent locks into place; then turn the switch so it's in the "Off" position.
   
6. Replace all the covers and panels you removed to access the cylinder, along with the audio control switch, if applicable, in reverse order of
   

Things You'll Need:

• Small flat-head screwdriver
• Ignition switch and key

Tips & Warnings

• Older Ford Focus models may have a different method of removing and changing the ignition switch. Check an automotive guide for your particular year and model.
• Always disconnect the negative (black) battery cable before working on the ignition or any other electrical component of your car.

I hope helped with this (remember rated this help) Good luck.

• Ignition Removal Instructions
  
• Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.

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• Remove the upper and lower shrouds. Refer to Steering Column Trim Covers - Disassemble - Off Vehicle or Steering Column Trim Covers - Disassemble - Off Vehicle .

• Put the key in the steering column lock cylinder set (1).

• Turn the key to the "START" position.

• Install a 1/16 allen wrench (2) into the hole on top of the lock module assembly in order to release the steering column lock cylinderset retaining pin.

• Turn the steering column lock cylinder set (1) into the "RUN" position.

• Pull the steering column lock cylinder set (1) out from the lock module assembly.

• Remove the key from the steering column lock cylinder set (1).
  

• Installation Instructions

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• Insert the key into the steering column lock cylinder set (1).
• LIne up the locking tab (2) and the positioning tab (3) of the steering column lock cylinder set with the locking tab slot (5) and the positioning tab slot (4) in the lock module assembly (6).
• Push the steering column lock cylinder set (1) into the lock module assembly (6).
• Rotate the steering column lock cylinder set (1) in the lock module assembly (6) into all positions.
• Install the upper and lower shrouds. Refer to Steering Column Trim Covers - Assemble - Off Vehicle or Steering Column Trim Covers - Assemble - Off Vehicle
• Remove the ignition key from the lock cylinder set (1).
• Connect the negative battery cable to the battery. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical

I hope this helps and good luck.
Please remember to vote and leave a testimonial. Thanks.

Are you aware? you have the key and tumbler and another part under the dash on the steering column called the ingition switch.
They both have to be aligned in sync to operate properly.
Question? is this a tilt steering wheel,if it is and you dont know anything about it I suggest you get a professionel to do this kind of job.
You really have to know what your doing for this one.

if you are refering to the ignition switch, put the key in the ignition and turn it to "on".  Do not start the car.  there should be a hole on the bottom of the column below the ignition switch.  Stick a long skinny object, such as an unbent paper clip into that hole.  There is a littlle "button" that you have to depress and pull the switch out.

Take the steering column cover off and tap/hit the ignition barrel with suitable tool (small hammer)while twisting on key.It may be enough to loosen it so key comes out.You will have to remove steering column cover to swap with replacment barrel anyway .Get someone to turn steering wheel while tapping/hitting barrel as it could be the steering column lock pin thats jamming.good luck.