I have a 96 Esplorer XLT. Everything has been fine but yesterday I got out at the gas station to fill up. When I was finished the key wouldn't turn in the steering column lock so I couldn't start the car and pull away from the pump. I tried everything from wiggling the steering wheel, the shift lever, jiggling the key, whatever, nothing worked so I finally had to get a tow truck to tow the car home. It is still sitting there. I tried the two copies of keys I had and neither worked. the keys don't look worn but they definitely act as if they aren't the right keys for the truck. What is up with that?

 

I might not be understanding as well but I'll try my best. You're saying that the ignition is locked because the steering wheel is locked, right? If so, free the steering wheel from the locked point by turning the steering wheel away from the lock stop and turn the key while keeping the steering wheel from the stop. Good luck!

 

Did that. Doesn't work.