Is there any way to definitively pinpoint the problem without taking the ignition to pieces?
My key won't turn in the ignition (mercifully happened after I got home from the park & ride station) no matter how I turn or jiggle or manipulate the key and steering wheel. It's parked with the wheels straight forward on flat ground.
I have a vague quote from a locksmith saying he could fix the tumbler for about $180, and from a mechanic saying it would cost about the same, if not more if it's the key cylinder. From your guy's experience, does this sound about right? The car has approximately 160,000 miles, and am considering selling it soon. So any costly repairs are going to be considered hard and long at this juncture.
Finally, as a complete amateur when it comes to repairs - is this something that I could feasibly replace on my own?
Thanks for the feedback,
Thomas