Step-by-Step Guide to Unlocking a Locked Steering Wheel

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The situation: You get in the driver’s seat, and the steering wheel won’t budge. The steering column lock engages when the car is off and the driver turns the wheel. A locked steering wheel is usually an easy fix. These quick tips can help you unlock it and get you back on the road fast.

Steps to Unlocking a Steering Wheel 

Push-Button Start Vehicles

1. Keep the key fob inside the car and away from phones or metal.
2. Relieve tension by gently turning the wheel in the direction that gives.
3. Push the start button once (ACC). If it’s still locked, press again (ON). If needed, press the brake pedal and start button at the same time, while keeping gentle wheel pressure.
4. If it’s still stuck, the key fob might be weak. Place it in the backup spot on the column and retry.
5. Still won’t turn? Check the 12V battery or contact a service center for a possible electronic column lock issue.

Vehicles With Ignition Keys

1. Put the key in the ignition.
2. Gently rotate the steering wheel to relieve tension and turn the key to the On/Start position at the same time.
3. Still locked? Confirm the gear is in Park or the clutch is depressed. Try a spare key or graphite lock lubrication if unsuccessful.

Safety

Steering should never lock while driving. Heavy, stiff steering while in motion is likely a power steering issue.

Prevention

A steering column lock is an anti-theft feature, not a hill-parking aid. Use your parking brake — and Park/gear — to secure a parked car. Before shutting down, straighten the wheels, set the parking brake, and then select Park before shutting down the engine.

Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication.

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  Renee Valdes is an experienced journalist and editor. During her career, she became fascinated by consumer spending, its impact on the economy, how fluctuating interest rates affect buying power, how to afford big-ticket purchases like cars, and more. Renee brings to the position her consumer, retail, automotive, and breaking news experience from CNN, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, TF1-French Television, and other outlets. Renee holds a master’s in journalism from American University and a bachelor’s in business from Marymount University.

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