What can I do to unlock the steering column on my 1996 Toyota Camry?

Just go to the dealership and order keys based on the VIN Number. Or a local locksmith can impression a key and cut you one freehand.

You are making this a lot harder than it is. You need a key.

Leave it in park and try to roll the car back slightly while turning the key and jerk on the wheel. Feel free to manhandle the wheel, it can take it.

The front wheels are at a angle putting pressure on the steering lock , rock the steering wheel from side to side while turning the key.

switch needs to be replace. the ignition key works starts failing just like the starter itself it starts ok at first and starts to go every time you try to start your car until it goes no more. replace as soon as possible or you will end up calling a locksmith.

Hi Aldene, Your vehicle seems too young to have a problem with a worn key so I suggest that the problem was related to the position of the steering wheel and the tongue of the locking mechanism. Sometimes when the lock engages it is under the load of the weight of the front wheels, if they are not in the straight ahead position. A small movement of the steering wheel is usually enough to release the steering lock. Regards John

Was your steering column turned, or possibly wedged against a curb or other obstacle? At times when that column is locked or wedged, you can't turn the ignition key. Just forcefully turn your steering wheel one way or the other & hold it there, the ignition assembly should unlock, and you should be able to turn the key.

Hi the steering lock could be causing you the problem try turning the steering wheel hard left whilst turning the key and do the same hard right.

it may be hard to turn but you should find once you have moved it slightly it will unlock allowing you to turn the key so dont adjust the steering wheel turn it to the right as if your trying to turn to the right and if this dont let the key turn turn the wheel to the left it only needs to move slightly to allow the steering lock to free the key,

doing the above should solve you problem

give me a shout back if you have any further problems ok

Hi
Sounds like the ignition barrel has failed.
If you replace any part you must ensure that the key and the transducer ring are matched. If not, the immobiliser will come on and you will never start the car.
Get a diagnostic test to verify the immobiliser is turning off.
Roger

There are few things that has to be checked 1)Transmission Lockout switch on the brake pedal 2) If transmission lockout switch checked out OK , then the solenoid on the gear lever that is activated by that switch has to be checked. 3)Step on the brake pedal and see if the brake lights come on. If they don't, check the brake light fuse to see if it is blown.
If the brake lights come on, then turn the key to where the steering wheel unlocks, but no lights come on. Set the park brake and see if the shifter will shift into neutral.
If the shifter moves out of park, then you will need to check the shift interlock actuator as its not getting power when the brake pedal is depressed. Thanks. you can rate this solution and show your appreciation.

Is your steering wheel locked? Turn the key as much as you can, then turn the steering wheel and see if it releases the lock. You should be able to completely turn the key after this.