Last February, when away for the weekend, our 2008 Ford Territory TX didn't respond when we tried to start it. The RACV told us the problem was quite serious and we would have to be towed. The following day the problem was diagnosed and the complete column steering assembly had to be replaced at a cost of approx. $2200 I wrote to Ford expressing my dismay at the repair costs for what appeared to be a fairly minor problem. Ford replied by telephone and the lady who called was very nice and understanding and noted my concerns. She also stated that as the vehicle was out of warranty and because a Ford dealer didn't do the repairs that Ford would not be taking the matter further. I requested this to be put in writing, but to date nothing has been received. I am writing to you as I thought other Ford drivers might be interested in this situation.
This is not uncommon. Ford chose not to service the ignition switch separately, so when it fails the only option left to owners is to replace the whole assembly and considerable cost as you found out. I can only assume they did to save money on the stock of spare parts they carried.
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