Steering lock apparatus

Disclosed is a steering lock apparatus which comprises a key cylinder (5), a steering lock mechanism (9, 10) adapted to selectively lock and unlock a steering shaft (3) in conjunction with the rotation of the key cylinder(5), an ignition switch mechanism (13) adapted to selectively turn on and off an ignition switch in conjunction with the rotation of the key cylinder, and a casing (4) for housing therein the key cylinder (5), the steering lock mechanism (9, 10) and the ignition switch mechanism (13). The casing (4) is disposed on one of opposite lateral sides of the steering shaft (3). The casing has an intermediate portion which is bent and formed as a bent portion (27). The key cylinder (5) and the ignition switch mechanism (13) are disposed, respectively, on opposite sides of the bent portion (27) while interposing the bent portion (27) therebetween. The bent portion (27) houses therein a rotation-transmitting mechanism (8, 11, 12) for changing a transmission direction of the rotation of the key cylinder (5) from an axial direction of the key cylinder (5) to a given direction allowing the rotation of the key cylinder (5) to be transmitted to the ignition switch mechanism (13). The improved arrangement of the steering lock apparatus can take measures for ensuring an adequate occupant protection performance without excessive increase in cost.