If someone totals my 1998, I think my next car will be a 1998! These new fangled electronics are a pain.
The immobilizer ring at the back of the keyed portion of the ignition switch has been trouble in some 1999-2000 cars. The problem is that it is a dealer only fix, because it requires a program change - I think.
The electrical portion of the ignition switch is easy to take out and check. But if the dash lights come on in posII and the starter always cranks in posIII, then I wouldn't think that is a problem.
Generic code readers will not read codes from the security system and once it is started, the code may be cleared, absolving the dealer from finding the problem.
If the key is getting hard to turn, a small amount of WD40 in the key hole has been reccomended by others. Don't over do it.
What a pain in the butt,

Klaus