Start without a key?

I saw a local ad for a free Taurus, so I figured I'd go and check it out. The only thing keeping me from starting it is the lady who owns it lost the key. I know it turns over because I got it to by jumping the the starter solenoid with a screwdriver. Is there any way to start it without the key? The only suggestion I was told was drill out the lock cylinder, but I don't want to damage it if possible. The only thing I can think of would be to take out the lock cylinder from the door to have a key cut, but I don't want to spend any money on this car before I see if it even runs.

What year is it? If it has the PATS system, or newer SecuriLock system, you won't be able to start it without a properly programmed key. Otherwise, you can get into the ignition switch wiring and provide power to the proper circuits to get it to crank and run assuming the rest of the system is healthy (the same thing a remote start system would do).

-Rod

It's a 90

Well, I'd just take out the cylinder. All you have to do is take the shroud off and I think there's a pin inside that you press then pull it out. I can't remember though if you need the key also??? If you can't do that, take and run a jumper wire from one of the yellow wires to the red/light green wire. That'll turn the ignition on. Then tap a yellow wire to white/pink which is the starter wire. If you want to drive it off like that, then you'll need to get 12v to gray/yellow and black/green wires also.

And run a CarFax on it to make sure it's not stolen.

-Rod

Don't I have to pay for a carfax report?

Yep, but $20 for a Carfax is far less than you fine will be if you are caught with stolen property, especially if the ignition switch is pulled and you are driving around with a screwdriver where the ignition switch should be.

Does the lady you've been dealing with have the title that matches the VIN, and with her name on it?

-Rod

I don't know if she does. I'm not going to try and get the car anymore cause not only do I not have any money to spend on it, it's a piece of crap. Thanks for your help anyway.

What??? It's a free car for pete's sake. Get on over there and get it started, get the title, then drive it to the local junkyard and collect $200 ;)