User: Assuming that your Focus has an automatic transmission... either the vehicle is not in "Park" or some part of the interlock has failed (or needs adjustment). This may be a mechanical linkage or an electric interlock. If electric, the "Park" sensor or the interlock solenoid may have failed, or a connector for either may be making a poor connection.

If your Focus instead has a manual transmission, there will be some mechanism (probably entirely inside the steering column) which enforces "definite intent" in locking the steering wheel. This is a safety feature and should never be bypassed. Many vehicles have a small lever somewhere on the steering column which, when moved to an alternate position, permits the steering wheel to be locked. Some vehicles require that the key be pressed inward (toward the center of the steering column) before it can be turned to the "lock" position.

Assistant: It sounds like you're addressing a potential issue with a Ford Focus where the steering wheel might not lock, or there could be an issue with the ignition system related to the transmission type.

For an automatic transmission Focus:
1. **Check if the vehicle is in "Park"**: Make sure the gear shift is in the 'P' position. If it's not, this can prevent the key from being removed or block the ignition from turning to the "off" position.
2. **Examine the interlock system**: This system ensures the vehicle is in "Park" before the key can be turned or removed. If there's an issue, it could involve:
   - A mechanical linkage issue preventing the transmission from fully engaging "Park."
   - An electrical failure with the "Park" sensor or the interlock solenoid. Check connections for corrosion or loose wires.
   
For a manual transmission Focus:
1. **Definite intent mechanism**: This system requires certain actions to lock the steering column securely.
   - Ensure all components inside the steering column function correctly and allow for the steering wheel lock mechanism to engage when needed.
   - Some manuals require the key to be pressed inward or turned while applying a small amount of pressure to engage the lock.

In any case, tampering with these safety systems is not recommended. If troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, consulting a professional mechanic or visiting a service center is advisable to ensure safety and proper functionality.
User: hey help
User: if it was an issue with the interlock system, would the electronic system recognize that the gear is in park / would it display "P" on the screen on the dash?
Assistant: If there is an issue with the interlock system, it's possible that the vehicle might not recognize that it's in "Park," and it may not display "P" on the dashboard. Here’s why:

1. **Sensor Functionality**: The electronic system relies on sensors to determine the gear position. If the Park sensor or the wiring connected to it is faulty, the system might not accurately detect the gear position, leading to the "P" not being displayed.

2. **Mechanical vs. Electrical Issues**: A mechanical linkage problem might prevent the gear shifter from fully engaging "Park," even if it appears to be in the correct position. This could cause the electronic system to fail in recognizing that the vehicle is in "Park."

3. **Error Messages/Warnings**: Sometimes, if the system detects a discrepancy between the shifter position and the sensor reading, it might trigger a warning light or error message on the dashboard.

If you encounter this issue, checking for any visible damage or loose connections related to the Park sensor is a good start. However, if the problem persists, it's best to consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and resolve the issue accurately.
User: so if the P is displayed when shifting to park, would that indicate that the interlock system isn't the culprit?
Assistant: If the "P" is displayed on the dashboard when shifting into Park, it generally indicates that the electronic components of the interlock system are recognizing the gear is in Park. This suggests that the sensors and related electrical connections are functioning properly. However, it doesn't entirely rule out other potential issues with the interlock system, such as:

1. **Mechanical Issues**: Even if the electronic system recognizes Park, there could be a mechanical issue preventing the gear from fully engaging, although this is less likely if the "P" is displayed properly.

2. **Intermittent Problems**: The system may work correctly at times and fail at others due to a loose connection or a failing sensor that hasn't completely stopped working yet.

If the "P" consistently shows up correctly and there are no other symptoms (like difficulty removing the key or engaging/disengaging the gear shifter), the interlock system itself might not be the issue. However, if you're experiencing other related symptoms, it would still be worth getting a professional diagnosis to rule out any underlying problems.
User: well the P shows up correctly but the key will not remove from the ignition after turning the car off. it turns on and runs fine, it's just unable to be removed when the car is off.  yes it's fully in park and the P displays.  When i turn the key all the way towards me and try to remove it, it just is stuck. although in that position, the steering wheel is still able to move (although feels heavy to turn, but it isn't locking as it normally would) and the shifter will allow me to shift out of park into any other position, only when i hold down the brake. but i don't think this is usually the case when the car is off? BTW its a 2013 hyundai accent
Assistant: