Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1997 Ford Probe Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Lock Cylinder (Non-Functional): Installation
- Install lock cylinder gear, washer and retainer into lock cylinder bore in column housing. Ensure ignition switch is in RUN position by rotating lock cylinder gear fully clockwise to START position, then releasing. Ensure lock cylinder gear keyway is correctly aligned with slot in ignition switch shaft.
- Turn NEW lock cylinder to RUN position. Press lock cylinder retaining pin located on bottom of lock cylinder. Install lock cylinder. Ensure lock cylinder is fully seated and aligned in interlocking washer.
- Turn lock cylinder to OFF position to release retaining pin into hole in column housing. Connect electrical connectors to key warning switch and ignition switch. Install upper and lower column shrouds. Install steering wheel. Connect battery cables. Ensure vehicle starts in Park and Neutral positions (A/T), vehicle does not start in Drive or Reverse position (A/T), and column locks with ignition switch in LOCK position. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.