Key Wont Turn

I've got an '01 Corolla that I drive regularly and lately it's been getting harder to turn the key once I put it inside the ignition. I have to Jiggle it quite a bit and hope that it hits the magic spot that allows it to turn. I spent 25 minutes in the parking lot at work trying to get it to turn and I finally got it but it's getting frustrating going through the routine of shaking the key inside the inition and hoping it will turn. I know the whole ignition/ke set can be replaced. Anyone have any details about it? How hard is it to do? Approximate costs? What the exact name of the part is (ignition cylinder I'm guessing?)?

 

Not sure if you've tried this, but it might be just your key being worn down. Have you tried your spare key?

Also, theres the possibility of it being the steering lock thats having issues. You might want to try turning the wheel a bit back and forth as you try the key to see if it helps.

As far as costs, cant really help ya there.

 

If you don't have spares you might want to see if your key is twisted. Had that problem with my taco. Got spares made that aren't and now it starts no problem. Though with the way spares and original are shaped now due to wear, and copying a worn key, I can only use my keys in one way. If my ignition doesn't want to turn I take the key out and flip it over. You can also try some lock oil.