Maybe I'm thinking of Mitsubishi then, I know for sure on those things you can unbolt the actual ignition switch(plastic part with wires going to it) from the back of the ignition tumbler/cylinder/the part that you put your key into then turn it.
Either way,if the switch is part of the key cylinder you should be able to buy a used steering column for a few hundred bucks, take it to a locksmith and have the cylinder keyed to your key for far less than $700. And most competent locksmiths and even shops should be able to program a key if need be.