I am currently putting my n62 engine back into my 2006 BMW X5 4.8is. While I was trying to hook up the steering linkage, I noticed that the upper part of the column was no longer fixed, it was spinning freely, and was telescoping in and out. So I went into the car and grabbed the steering wheel and it also was spinning freely, rather than locked as it usually is when the car is turned off. It appears though that the column is still fixed to the wheel because when I turn the wheel the column turns with it.
Anyone have any ideas as to what happened? Did I break the steering lock or something? Is this a huge problem?

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2006 BMW X5 4.8is