I purchased a used 2001 Ford Focus in March of 2002. It had 43,895 miles when I purchased it. I've had odd ball problems and recalls, but this problem has never been recalled and is becoming expensive. At 68,055 miles on October 15, 2004 I had the ignition switch replaced at the dealership along with the steering column because my key was getting stuck in the ignition and I could not start the car. The bill with taxes totaled 363.68. Today, January 21, 2006 at 79,369 miles my key to my Ford Focus is stuck in the ignition and will not come out of the ignition. Yes, I am a women driver. Yes, I do not know the mechanics of a car. No, I am not stupid. 11,314 miles, 1 year and 3 months later I have to go back to the dealership to replace the ignition. I have found various similar reports on-line and will continue to investigate.
FORD MOTOR COMPANY needs to recognize the HUGE ignition problem.
I too have had the problem with the ignition on my 2000 Focus LX. My brother has the same type of car and has also had the same problem with the key getting stuck in the ignition switch. This, however, is the only problem I've had with my car thus far.