Ignition switch will not turn?

Hi,
My name is Jennifer. About a week ago I purchased a used 2000 Ford Focus ZTS 2.0L
and now I'm having a huge problem with it. I put the key in the ignition, but for some reason I can't get te key to turn (either back or forth). I'm able to get the key out though, but no success turning the engine. What can I do? And how much do you think I'm looking at here?

Frist I had trouble putting my key into the ignition. It would only go halfway in. I wiggled the steering wheel but I still could not get it in. My car was in park so I didn't understand why the key wouldn't go in. Finally the key was pushed in and I was able to drive my car although went it was time to take my key out it was stuck. It would not come out and it would not turn. Now the key can go in and out but it will not turn to start the car. What is wrong and what needs to be done?

This is a common problem on the focus, it happened to my wifes car several months ago. The root of the problem is a small bar of metal inside the ignition lock cylinder that is supposed to disengage when the key is inserted so you can then turn the key.

To get it unstuck I took a small rubber mallet and tapped on the key until it was able to turn. Now make sure you are hitting it straight on or you will break the key off and that is pricey!
Once it turns you remove the trim around the steering column to expose the ignition. On the bottom is a small hole you can push a phillips screwdriver into to remove the ignition lock cylinder. Once it's out you slap a new one in or if you choose you can lube the old one.

I have changed steering Colom and I have damaged the black ring around ignition key pick up receiver I believe and now will not car will start if I replace with new one will it start please help I get all lights on dash car run fine before I fixed play in Colom please help. Brett

Thanks but I have done it now no program by ford bought ecu and key worked fine cost 45 pound ecu and key from scrap yard ford want too much money the black key pick up on ignition all the same from 98 to 05 and don't need programing lol thanks.

Thought you were an expert? Im not but seem to no more than you lol thanks.

Lol funny as im far from expert but that pick up on ignition is not programmable like I said all same from 98 to 05 lol love the banta thanks.