2004 Explorer XLT Ignition cylinder replacement

[cbexplore]

I’m trying to replace my ignition cylinder but can’t find any videos specific to the 04 for replacing it. No little hole under the starting column. I have the key and a programmable new cylinder with no key.
I have the column cover off but the PATS covers the cylinder removal hole and I don’t want to damage it trying to remove it.
The PATS is unplugged but goes into a fairly large wiring harness covering the bottom of the cylinder access.
Any help is appreciated.

 

[J_C]

Pretty sure you have to remove the PATS module enough to gain access to the release nub, which may be slightly forward (towards seat) of straight downward facing.

 

[cbexplore]

Thanks I figured out I had to disconnect the PATS wiring loom to get to the the release hole.

 

[jesickarodriguez]

No babe that's not the issue, the cylinder pops in no problem however attempting to extract the key after cylinder is installed is unsuccessful. They key will not turn to the position were it's able to come out. The new keys that came with new cylinder is doing the same thing that happened with the old cylinder and key

Pretty sure you have to remove the PATS module enough to gain access to the release nub, which may be slightly forward (towards seat) of straight downward facing.

 

[FordFlintrock]

@jesickarodriguez
There is an interlock which prevents key removal if it does not detect transmission being in Park.

 

[jesickarodriguez]

@jesickarodriguez
There is an interlock which prevents key removal if it does not detect transmission being in Park.

The car is on a slight hill and it rolls if it's not in park not only that but I tried pulling the key out in park plus neutral and the rest of the gears. When I think about it the problem is not necessarily the key is stuck in reality the cylinder won't turn to to correct position to release key if that makes sense

 

[jesickarodriguez]

@jesickarodriguez
There is an interlock which prevents key removal if it does not detect transmission being in Park.

Besides if the ignition switch was loose or defective in anyway would the radio and windows and interior lites still properly function cause they are.

 

[eddiehudson]

The car is on a slight hill and it rolls if it's not in park not only that but I tried pulling the key out in park plus neutral and the rest of the gears. When I think about it the problem is not necessarily the key is stuck in reality the cylinder won't turn to to correct position to release key if that makes sense

I believe your car could be in park but if the interlock switch does not recognize it, then it won't let you remove the key.

 

[J_C]

Is your shifter on the steering column or floor in front of the center console? If on the floor, this video might help:

 

[jesickarodriguez]

Is your shifter on the steering column or floor in front of the center console? If on the floor, this video might help:

Steering column