Well, to make a long story short, someone broke the ignition key lock cylinder(i think that is what it is called; the part where you put the key in) for my wife's 98 Mazda Protege. I called the dealer and I don't know if they really knew what they were talking about but the quoted for a price of over $400 dollars, just for a peice of metal and 2 keys. What I need to know is what the real name of this part is and if I can find it online somewhere. What is broken is just the metal piece where the key goes in, all the wires and other stuff is fine. Thanks for your help.

 

What they are quoting you for is the complete steering lock, which is the completearmoured unit around the steering column. I would suggest that you get this over to a locksmith. They would have the expertise to disassemble the steering lock unit and reapir it. Still should be alot cheaper than $400. I could only find a part number for the complete unit. Wish I had better news for you.