Focus Mk1 bonnet lock - how to open the bonnet when the key doesn't work 

I'm really pleased it helped, thanks for the feedback.

Many thanks for your positive feedback, I'm really glad it was useful. Since doing the video, I've taken to carrying a large cross head screwdriver in the glovebox to open the bonnet, it just seems to locate in the slot that much easier without any fumbling to get it lined up.

Glad it was useful. Shame you couldn't salvage the grille though.

Hi im glad it was helpful.

Yeh it's a shame to have to do it, but providing the car isn't too precious it seems the most effective solution.

I can't believe how many people have had this issue, and how many mk1s are still out there. Really pleased you found it useful.

You're welcome! Whenever I encounter a problem I always find a solution on RU-vid so it's great to be able to help someone in the same way.

@@jonbate7148 absolutely, if the car is worth keeping good you spend whatever is necessary to do so. Mine was already in poor condition and bought as a cheap runaround. I've lost count of how many cars I've had since then, but it seems a very long time ago that I scrapped the focus. Happy to hear that yours is still doing well. I dont see why a screwdriver-based bodge job shouldn't pass an MOT - any argument that the bonnet should open without the need for a tool could be questioned in the light of having to use the key anyway, the screwdriver is just a replacement key. Thank you for watching anyway, I never dreamed this hastily filmed report would get so many views and over such a long period.

I would guess that Ebay.de would be your best chance. Lots of Mk1 Focuses reaching the end of their life and being broken for parts. Good luck finding one the correct colour for your car! 👍

Hi, the lock mechanism is right behind the grille so once the grille is out of the way you can attack the lock. The bonnet will stay closed until you have removed the lock completely, unless you are able to turn the whole thing using mole grips.

Hi, I can't comment on this as the car is long gone but if it worked for you then maybe others can try it and comment below. Thanks for watching anyway.

...but you can't get to those bolts while the bonnet is shut.

@@johnf5817 if you remove the grill like you've done in the video u can get access to both of them. Then I used a chisel to tap the mechanism back until the key/barrel part has enough room to be removed from the cross head section of the mechanism the round piece were you place the screw driver to turn were the end of the barrel/key should be.

I'll have to take your word for it as the car has long gone, I certainly didnt notice anything I could access at the time. Thanks for your suggestion though as someone else may find it helpful.

@@johnf5817 btw how much you pay for another key? I made the mistake of buying another bonnet mechanism and broke that trying to get it back off when all along the trouble was with the key/barrel. Apparently the pins go in them after a while but a repair kit is expensive. Never seen a focus mk1 in white there usually grey/silver black/blue like mine, happy motoring.

@@madeinjapan3485 I honestly can't remember, sorry. It wasn't expensive. It came from an online place where you send them the specification having inspected an existing key.

If you were able to do it that way, fantastic. I couldn't reach any part of the lock from below, hence doing what I did. Can't verify your method now as that car is long gone.