1997 e320 rack and pinion
 

LASt night some a$$ hit my 1997 e320. Fender, bumper, tire and wheel are no good now. the tire rod end is broken at the rack and pinion. When I tried to turn the key this morning to move the wheel the key will not turn now either. Any reason why the key won't turn now. I'm going to go to pick and pull and check the net for replacement parts. Car only has 144,000 miles so I'm trying to save her.

Turn and hold the steering wheel ( try in each direction ) then turn the key , things may be forced against the steering lock. Just like parking against a curb , steering may be sprung against the lock.