157k miles, I believe the lock assembly has been replaced once already. I've had a problem for a while where when I insert the key into the ignition, sometimes it will not turn at all, even to acc. How I solved this previously was to gently wiggle it back and forth while moving it in and out, and it would eventually turn and work for a while. Well, today after 20 min of trying, it will not turn at all and it is stuck in my driveway. The wheel is locked to the left now as well because I tried to turn it while wiggling the key. I have used 2 different keys, and one is even twisted due to the constant wiggling.

What part needs to be replaced? Is it the ignition switch, lock cylinder? Any tips for getting it to turn or unlocking the steering wheel? On a related note, sometimes when I can turn the key nothing happens, like there is no connection. Lights are on the dash but no start, and I have to try turning it a few times before it starts.

I found the video below in another thread, and it shows him taking out the ignition switch and starting the car manually. Could I use this method to move the car, or would the steering wheel still be locked up? Thanks for any help.

 

I assume ND in your username means North Dakota? If so where?
You could use that method and you just have to turn the steering wheel to unlock it.
You just have to replace the ignition switch.

 

Yup, North Dakota. I live in a small town southwest of Minot on highway 23, right in the middle of the oil patch. Looks like I can get one for $15 on Ebay. I use this car as a spare on a mail route out here to save miles on my 03 Outback that I use in bad weather. Also my practice car for teaching myself DIY auto repair. Looks like an easy enough project. Thanks for the help!

 

so, my switch came in today, hadn't messed with it yet. As I was taking it apart, I was having trouble with the inner screw on the ignition switch. Trying to loosen it, I accidentally brushed the exposed connectors and it sparked, I had forgotten to unplug the switch. So I unplug it and finish taking it out, then plug it back in and try to start, nothing. New switch, nothing, not even dash lights. Also, the key still will not turn. So, question is, how much damage did this spark cause, and how do I fix it? Did I fry some wires, blow a fuse?

 

I didn't receive any spark with mine when I changed that, but then again I had disconnected the battery and removed the air bag, but I also disconnected the ignition switch before unscrewing it

 

Is your key worn down? I had the same issue you have with the wiggling of the key to get it to turn. New key and no more problems