My 96 bronco has the old key turns and nothing happens issue. My first thought is the actuator but after doing some searching it seems to be less likely an issue with the 96 than the older models. I have just removed the steering wheel and am stuck. There is a white plastic cover with a yellow tab that covers access to the rest of the column. Has anybody removed this and if so does it take a special tool? It shows all the symptoms of a broken actuator. Key turns with little to no resistance, it will not shut off even with the key removed, and will not engage the starter when turned fully on. I have replaced two actuators before but they were on an 87 and 91 column. the newer style has me stumped.

96 5.8 auto Eddie Bauer

 

Figured out the white plastic piece, two tabs and loosen the airbag wires. Now I am out of ideas. It looks like ford ditched the old pot metal actuator (thank GOD) for a plastic one that slides when the key is turned. I will try to remove this and inspect it for damage but am open to any suggestions on where to go from here.