I have a 2006 325xi with a trouble code resembling a padlock and what looks like a steering wheel? but the steering wheel is not locked. what does it mean?

Can you take the vehicle out of park and put it into gear? If so, move the car a bit forward or backward and see if the steering unlocks. If so, it was probably parked in a manner that had the steering wheel stressed against a turn.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9dEOtFgKDc
Method 1 Unlocking Your Steering Wheel

1. Insert the key into the ignition. ...
2. Turn the key gently. ...
3. Apply pressure to the steering wheel. ...
4. Do not shake or rock the wheel. ...
5. Pull the key out slightly before turning it. ...
6. Turn the wheel and the key at once to unlock it.

https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Locked-Steering-Wheel

Cause!
One of the most common reasons why a steering wheel won't lock right is that the detent is broken or worn down. If you don't know what the word detent means, then don't worry. The detent is basically "the catch" part that makes sure that your steering wheel locks into place.
https://carroar.com/steering-wheel-wont-lock/

Since you did not list a year/model, I can only generalize and state that you have a failure with your power steering pump, such as loss of fluid, loose or broken v-belt (serpentine belt), or seized rack.

If you need further help, reach me via phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/daniel_4061c3d97c12c4c7

Trying smacking the shifter hard to the park position which it is already. There is a lock that stops the ignition from unlocking if the gear selector not getting into the P position all the way.

Buy a complete set of new locks ,fit them then get a locksmith to re programme them for you ,no idea who what makes a firebird or what it looks like but if a ford then you should be able to re-programme the keys yourself ?maybe? if a ford and fit a padlock and chain around the steering wheel till you get the locks changed ,disconnect the battery and unplug the crank sensor

Sounds like a wheel bearing. Need to get it on hoist so can check wheels for play.

IF YOU HAVE AIRBAGS IN UR STEERING WHEEL, UR GONNA HAVE TO TAKE IT TO UR DEALER FOR SAFETY SAKE. AIRBAGS USE A SMALL EXPLOSIVE TO MAKE THEM DEPLOY. IF THE STEERING WHEEL DOESN'T HAVE AIRBAG, UR IN LUCK. REMOVE STEERING WHEEL WITH A PULLER. THERE SHOULD BE SOMETHING RESEMBLING A "STAR" WHEEL. THERE IS A DETENT THAT GOES INTO ONE OF THE "STAR" LOBES. MAYBE THE DETENT IS STUCK AND A LITTLE LUBE WILL FREE IT UP. OR MAYBE YOU WILL NEED TO LINE UP THE "STAR" WITH THE DETENT.

be sure the plate thate the the locking pin comes through is in properlyinstalledandpingoes throughit,disconect battery for awhile and reconect to see if light stays off