On my cforce 800 xc there's a key hole next to the gear selector. What the heck is it for? It doesn't show up in the owner's manual and searching far and wide on the internet has gotten me nothing. I put my key in it and try to turn it but it doesn't move.

Likley shifter lock usually has to be in park an there usually not that accurate so jiggly the shifter as you turn the key

Yeah tried that, all sorts of moving and jiggling around. I can see a pin that I'm guessing is pushed outward when the key is turned and it's clear there. Is this a mechanical or electric thing?

It's just mechanical lock. If you remove the side panel you can see how it operates. May need some lubrication.

There's zero play in the key lock. Like it's the wrong key. I'm wondering if the previous owner changed the ignition key but didn't install the matched gear lock at the same time. I called the dealer who knows the first owner to find out. We'll see.

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

Some of those you have to push in and turn.

Have you tried spare key or removed the rubber cover over your main keys? My cforce 520s doesn't let key all the way in if the rubber cover is in place.

Ooo! I'll try that! Don't have a spare (yet) but will remove the cover.

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

My lock on my Z won't work with the cover on the key. Stupid....