Volkswagen Repair: 2002 Jetta ignition problem, straightforward service, mechanical section

Question
Rocky,
Yesterday I found that I was unable to start my car... the key would not turn the ignition. I tried in vain to jiggle the wheel and turn the key, but no luck. After towing my car to a local VW dealer, they told me the steering wheel/ignition was locked tight and they didn't know how to fix the issue. All they could do is start drilling on the ignition until it loosens up (so they say). In the end, they say this is going to cost thousands... I've contacted VW headquarters and they are reviewing the case.
Have you ever heard of this? Am I getting ripped?
Any ideas?
Thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Todd;
Sounds like a simple ignition switch replacement to me.  The electrical section is separate from the mechanical section.  It shouldn't be thousands!  A few hundred maybe, but thousands?  Holy smokes are there any German only repair shops in your town, or nearby?  I'm certain they will know how to fix it even if you have to have a different key to start the car than you use to unlock it.  I'm just too honest, I guess!   NOT!  Sounds like a less than straightforward service writer to me, but then I'm only a technician....
I'm sorry for your problem.  I hope you get it resolved in an acceptable manner.  Good luck, Todd.