How to Unlock Your Steering Wheel - Vol.315
If you are having trouble starting your vehicle, or the key won't turn in the ignition, it is possible that your steering wheel has locked. Many vehicle models will automatically lock when the key is not in the ignition, while some vehicles require the operator to lock it upon removing the key from the ignition. The reason a steering wheel locks is to prevent theft of the vehicle. When the steering wheel locks it does not allow an individual to hotwire the car and drive it or to place the vehicle's transmission in neutral and maneuver the vehicle to be towed. If you are unfamiliar with the steering mechanism of your vehicle, or accidentally lock the steering wheel, it can be very frustrating when you are unable to turn the key. Fortunately, there are a few easy steps that can be taken to unlock the steering wheel and easily turn on the vehicle.
Unlocking a Steering Wheel in a Few Easy Steps
Normally a steering wheel will turn easily in either direction, but when locked it will not move at all in one direction and only slightly in the other. Determine which direction the steering wheel will move, which is typically to the left. When you turn the wheel in that direction it will only move a small amount and should feel like it wants to bounce back to the starting position. With the key in the ignition turn the wheel in the direction it will move until you feel it begin to resist and turn the key with a normal amount of force. This may require a few attempts before the ignition will successfully turn over, but is just a matter of discovering the "sweet spot" in your steering column. Do not shake or rock the steering wheel, you should simply need to turn and hold the wheel while turning the key. If you are unsuccessful with this method a small amount of wiggling the wheel back and forth while attempting to turn the key can help to unlock with steering wheel. Remember to never force the key or use any amount of force as the key should turn easily when following these easy steps. This process should work to unlock a steering wheel for any year, make, or model of vehicle.
If this is difficult or tedious with your vehicle you can avoid locking the steering wheel in the first place by paying attention when putting your vehicle in park. Once the transmission is in park and the key is removed do not turn your wheel in either direction as this commonly locks it. It is also common for people to accidentally lock the steering wheel by placing their hands on it for support while exiting their vehicle. Remember that a locked steering wheel serves as an anti-theft measure, so only leave it unlocked if there is limited concern about your vehicle being stolen.
What to do if These Steps do Not Unlock Your Steering Wheel
If your steering wheel was not locked yet the key would not turn, then this is either a problem with the key itself or the ignition cylinder. If you have followed the directions on how to unlock your steering wheel but are still unsuccessful then you should call an automotive locksmith. Never try to force a key to turn that will not turn with a normal amount of pressure, this can cause more significant damage and would become more expensive than requesting the assistance of an automotive locksmith. It can also be helpful to reference your vehicles manual to understand the specific mechanisms and processes for your make and model vehicle.