Imagine you are sitting in your parked car, with the steering wheel locked up. You can’t move it, and you can’t get out of the car. This is a scary situation to be in, but it can happen if your car has a power steering lock-up malfunction. In this blog post, we’ll explain what a power steering lock-up is, and we’ll tell you how to prevent it from happening. Plus, we’ll give you some tips on what to do if your steering wheel locked up while parked. Read on for more information.
What happens when the steering wheel locks?
The steering wheel can lock up for a number of reasons. It could be due to a problem with the power steering system, or it could be caused by a mechanical issue. If the steering wheel locks while you’re driving, it’s important to stay calm and avoid panicking.
Why do steering wheel locked up while parked?
There are a few reasons why steering wheels lock:
Damaged Key
Another common cause of a locked steering wheel is a damaged key. If your key is bent or broken, it may not engage the locking mechanism properly. This will cause the steering wheel to lock even if you don’t try to lock it.
If your key is damaged, you must have it replaced by a professional. With the new keys, the steering wheel should work fine.
Sticky Locks
If the locking mechanism is sticky, it may not engage properly. This can cause the steering wheel to lock even if you don’t try to lock it.
To fix a sticky lock, you must clean it with a lubricant. WD-40 is a good option. Once the lock is lubricated, it should work properly.
Internal Wear
Over time, the locking mechanism may wear out. This can cause the steering wheel to lock even if you don’t try to lock it.
If the locking mechanism is worn out, you must replace it. This is a job for a professional. Once the new locking mechanism is in place, the steering wheel should work fine.
Dirt and Debris on the Steering Lock Chamber
If there is dirt and debris on the steering lock chamber, it can prevent the locking mechanism from engaging properly. This can cause the steering wheel to lock even if you don’t try to lock it.
To clean the steering lock chamber, you must remove the dirt and debris. A vacuum cleaner is a good tool for this job. Once the chamber is clean, the steering wheel should work fine.
How to unlock a locked steering wheel?
If your steering wheel is locked, you must follow these steps to unlock it:
1: Trying Through the Ignition
Someone asked what is the manual release of the steering wheel lock? This method is the answer to that question. In this method, you turn the key and steering wheel together.
That’s it:
Insert the key into the ignition cylinder. Try turning the key slightly. Keep in mind that a sharp twist can break the key. Removing an ignition cylinder with a broken key will cost you 2-5 times your usual cost.
If your car does not turn the key lightly to start, try to determine which side the locking pin is on. Look in the direction where the steering wheel doesn’t move at all. This is your locked side.
During this step, turn the key slightly to apply pressure to the steering wheel on the free side.
Hopefully this will start your car.
Note: Do not move the steering wheel. That way you might make things worse.
2: Un-jam the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is what you use to start your car. It’s also the part that locks your steering wheel when you turn it off. Over time, the ignition cylinder can become jammed. When this happens, the steering wheel will lock even if you don’t try to lock it.
To un-jam the ignition cylinder, you must insert a small object into the keyhole. Use a paperclip or something similar. Once the object is in the keyhole, try turning the key. This may take some effort, but it should eventually loosen the jammed cylinder.
3: Work on the Key
Someone asked what is the manual unlocking of the steering wheel lock? This method is the answer to that question. With this method, you can turn the key and the steering wheel at the same time.
That’s it:
Insert the key into the ignition cylinder. Try turning the key slightly. Remember that sharp turns can damage the keys. Removing the ignition cylinder with a notched key will cost you 2 to 5 times the usual cost.
If your car doesn’t turn the key easily to start, try to determine which side the locking pin is on. Look in the direction the steering wheel doesn’t move at all. This is your lock page.
While doing this, turn the key slightly to apply pressure to the steering wheel on the free side.
Hopefully this will start your car.
Note: Do not move the steering wheel. That way you can make things worse.
4: Replace the Ignition Lock Cylinder
If the steps above do not work, you must replace the ignition lock cylinder. This is a job for a professional. Once the new cylinder is in place, the steering wheel should work fine.
Video Fixing Steering Wheel locked
How to Replace the Ignition Lock Assembly
The ignition lock assembly is what you use to start your car. It’s also the part that locks your steering wheel when you turn it off. Over time, the ignition lock assembly can become worn out. When this happens, the steering wheel will lock even if you don’t try to lock it.
To replace the ignition lock assembly, you must first remove the old one. This is a job for a professional. Once the old assembly is out, you can install the new one.
1. Remove the Ignition Assembly Cover
Most of these covers are separate plastics that cover the ignition switch assembly and steering column. You can only remove this cover by adjusting the wheels to the lowest position. Wish your steering wheel was tilt adjustable. Most modern cars have this feature.
Now remove the fasteners holding the plastic cover in place. Some vehicles may contain components above and below the steering wheel. On other cars, the cover is separate.
2. Release the Ignition Assembly
To do this, you’ll need an Allen key, especially the 9/32″ size. Remove any trim blocking the roller release hole and ignition harness connector. Insert the Allen key into the unlock hole while turning the ignition key back.
Use the ignition key to pull the entire assembly to the passenger side. Also, be sure to disconnect the ignition switch wire connector when removing the ignition cylinder.
3. Grease the New Ignition Switch
After removing the ignition assembly, prepare a new ignition assembly and lubricate it fully. They are sold pre-lubricated and ready to install. Even so, be sure to see that it is well lubricated and that the cylinder turns smoothly in either direction before installing it into the firing chamber.
4. Make Sure the Internal Lock Pins Are Moving Smoothly
When you reassemble the ignition key, make sure the internal lock pins are moving smoothly. You can do this by removing the key and looking through the small hole in the cylinder. If you see anything binding, use a small file to remove any burrs.
5. Install the Cylinder in the Firing Chamber
When you’re sure the new ignition assembly is working properly, install it in the firing chamber. Start by inserting the key and turning it to the “on” position. Then, while holding the key in place, slide the assembly into the chamber.
Make sure the cylinder is properly seated before tightening the retaining screws.
6. Reconnect the Switch Plug
Once the new ignition assembly is installed, reconnect the switch plug. Make sure the connections are secure.
7. Replace the Trim and Cover
Now that the new ignition assembly is installed, you can replace the trim and cover. Start by reinstalling the lower trim piece, if your vehicle has one. Then, replace the plastic cover and fasten it in place.
8. Start the Engine
Now, try starting the engine. If everything is working properly, the engine should start and the steering wheel should be unlocked.
How to prevent steering wheel lock-up?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your steering wheel from locking up. One thing you can do is check the power steering fluid level regularly. If the fluid level is low, it could cause the steering system to fail. Another thing you can do is have your steering system checked regularly by a mechanic. This will help to identify any potential problems that could cause the steering wheel to lock up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost To Fix The Steering Lock?
The cost to replace the issue causing your steering wheel locks can vary anywhere between $150 and 1000 dollars.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Steering Lock?
If your steering wheel locks while you are driving, it can be very dangerous. You may lose control of the vehicle and could get into an accident. It is best to get the problem fixed as soon as possible.
Is the Steering Lock Worth it?
The steering lock is a great way to deter thieves from stealing your car. If you are worried about your car being stolen, then the steering lock is definitely worth the investment.
Any Special Solution for Hydraulic Power Steering Users?
If you have hydraulic power steering, there is a special solution that you can use to prevent your steering wheel from locking up. This solution is called the “hydraulic power steering lock.” This lock keeps the fluid in the power steering system from draining out, which can cause the steering wheel to lock up.
What do you do when your steering wheel is locked and wont turn?
If your steering wheel is locked and won’t turn, the first thing you should do is check the power steering fluid level. If the fluid level is low, it could be causing the steering system to fail. Another thing you can do is have your steering system checked by a mechanic to identify any potential problems that could cause the steering wheel to lock up.
How do you reset a locked steering wheel?
If your steering wheel is locked and won’t turn, you can try resetting it by disconnecting the battery and then reconnecting it. This will sometimes reset the system and allow the steering wheel to turn. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the issue causing your steering wheel to lock up.
Conclusion
Steering wheel locking up while parked is a frustrating and seemingly dangerous problem. However, it is generally not difficult or expensive to fix. In most cases, the issue can be resolved by resetting the parking brake system or replacing a faulty component. If you are experiencing this problem with your vehicle, Answer The Question hopes this blog post has been helpful in diagnosing and resolving the issue.
