HI Mike
there are 2 possable causes of your fault 1worn key 2 worn tumblers in the lock barrel 
it is most common that the tumblers have worn in the lock and ether the lock barrel  or the tumblers are replaced 
to do  this you need to remove the lock from the door 
an other idea is to try your spair key in the lock
also try lubercating the lock with a light oil .
                
 TONY ...FORD TECHNICIAN
                
 January 2005