ignition problem

Hi

We have a 1996 Escort station wagon in the Netherlands (i.e. European manufacture) and cannot get the key to turn in the ignition. One garage has suggested that the entire ignition will have to be taken out and replaced-though they haven't seen the car yet so it was only a guess based on verbal info.

But this seems a bit extreme-it feels like the steering wheel is just locked and we simply can't get it unlocked.

Any suggestions???


Lisa

sometimes you need to pull down (to the left or the right as if you are turning the wheels) as you turn the key to release the streering column lock. Also be sure you are in park and not on a steep hill.