steering column unlocked no start

Hi guys, Have a 2005 Taurus SE with 150k miles. really nice car but lately have a no-start, no crank when turning the key. It just goes dead. I banged on the starter to no avail. Then a week later it started out of the blue and now it is no start as before. Noticed that the steering column does not lock. Could there be a connection? I think so but want to hear of some short cuts that may solve the problem before I dig into the steering wheel.:confused:

When you say the steering column doesn't lock, are you referring to the steering wheel? Without the key in you can turn the steering wheel more than 15 degrees or so?

When the engine doesn't start does the bulb test work in the instrument cluster? Is the Theft/Security light flashing quickly when trying to start the engine?

-Rod