Ignition refuses to cooperate on 2001 'stang

Hello,

I have a 2001 Mustang (V6). I was in a wreck about a year ago (where someone ran a stop and bulldozed the heck out of the car), and now my ignition has problems. I insert the key, and car begins to "ding" - which it has always done (same sound when the door is open), but now I can't turn the key either direction. I can't start the car.

It happened once or twice before, and it would "stick" - I had to wiggle it, push the key backwards (counter-clockwise), which would finally allow the key to move, then I could push the key forwards (clockwise) to the start position and it would start fine.

Everything else on the car seems to check out.

I am planning on taking the car in to have it looked at (will probably have to have it towed in... I'm no mechanic). My question is, is such a problem typical with this car, and what can I expect in terms of repairs? I want to be prepared in case the mechanic tries to pull a fast one on me.

I appreciate any help on this. It has been a pretty stressful problem...

A few things to consider:
>Is the key in ok shape? Is it bent or very worn?
>The ingnition lock itself may be worn or broken. This is not the most unheard of mechanical failure.
>I doubt it is any sever problem or related to the collision damage.
>Have a pro look at it as you stated.

Thank you for your response.

I finally did take it in to the dealership. They repaired the car and it works great now.

A piece in the ignition switch had broken, or something. I couldn't follow exactly what he was explaining to me, but it made sense for the most part.

Thanks again for your help.