Ignition issues

The rod connects to the actuator rack inside the column at the key cylinder at the top and runs down the column to the ignition switch. Depending on which column you have it is a bit different. If you have a tilt column it's a bit different than the fixed column and if you have an air bag it is also a bit different.
The rod shouldn't come out unless the upper rack gear has broken. If that's the case the column has to be taken apart to access the upper gearing and replace the rod.
If it's a tilt column the rod is a bit different but the column still has to come apart.