Ignition

My '96 Mercury Sable is running and the key comes freely out of the ignition without having to turn the car off. In fact, I cannot turn the car off at all. When they key is in or out of the ignition it can freely turn 180 degrees without anything happening. Did I snap some kind of ignition switch? If so, is this something that I can replace myself?

The Ford or Mercury dealer sells new lock cylinders. I found after market lock cylinders don't hold up. You can buy what you want. A rod goes from the lock cylinder to the ignition switch. Disconnect battery ground remove upper and lower shroud. Bottom of instrument panel unbolt steering column. Look for a bent rod a bad lock cylinder or broken ignition switch. Replace the broken parts.A lot of the bolts for a new switch are torx tamper proof. Buy new bolts if you don't have a set. Use a 1/8 inch drill bit to push under the lock cylinder to release it.
I've found Ford dealers are cheaper than Mercury dealers on parts.