By rotating the ignition key while it is in the ignition, you can unlock your steering wheel. A steering wheel might lock due to mechanical issues, security features, and frequent rapid rotations.
1) To start, place your key in the ignition switch and gently spin it. The steering wheel can be unlocked by turning the key. If you are having trouble switching the ignition to the ACC position, you can remove any tension by rotating the key while turning the steering wheel back and forth.
2) You can only turn the steering wheel in the opposite way when it is secured with a pin on one side. Apply pressure on the steering wheel in the direction the wheel is moving as you turn the key.
3. Watch out not to shake the steering wheel excessively. This could damage the locking pin, making it less likely that your wheel will unlock.
4) If your key is worn and doesn’t seem to work through the procedure, pull the key out a little from the ignition before turning it.
We strongly advise making an immediate trip to one of our Kia Service Centers if the issue persists.
Issues with the power steering pump
– A blockage in the power steering pump is the most frequent cause. Drivers may manoeuvre their cars conveniently thanks to the power steering pump. But an unexpected engine power outage could cause the steering pump to malfunction, locking the wheel.
2) Safety and security measures
The security feature of the car, which locks the steering wheel to prevent theft, will be the cause, unless you have any serious issues with the vehicle. If the handbrake fails or the car is parked on a steep mountain, the steering wheel may also lock in order to prevent the vehicle from rolling back down the hill.
3) Repeated quick twists
– The steering wheel may lock if you make sudden turns a lot. Additionally, it harms the engine and transmission, lowering the car’s overall performance.
4) Unexpected lock-up
– The locked steering wheel cannot be opened by inserting and rotating the key if the ignition system is dirty or worn out. Such a failed system can make it difficult for drivers to start and stop the engine, and if it happens while the vehicle is moving quickly, it may put the driver in danger.
5) Failure of the engine control unit (ECU)
– Although this is a rare reason, it might nonetheless result in a steering wheel lock. A damaged ECU may cause a sensory problem that activates the steering wheel locking mechanism. Additionally, a malfunctioning ECU prevents power from reaching the power steering pump, which locks the steering wheel.
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Unlocking It By Yourself
You may always attempt to unlock a locked steering wheel on your own. Some of the things you can attempt if there isn’t significant underlying harm include:
Insert The Key
Most of the time, turning the ignition while entering the key will unlock a jammed steering wheel. Try to turn the wheel in the same direction as it was turning before it became stuck. Turn it both ways if you can’t remember which way. Turning the key should be done at the same time as this.
To avoid causing more harm, you might need to increase your turning effort, but don’t exert too much pressure.
Use Another Key
There could be a problem with the key if you insert it and it doesn’t unlock the locked wheel. The master key may stop working due to things like prolonged use and dead batteries.
For instance, the prior owner of a used automobile may not have kept the vehicle up to par, and the key may be flawed in some other way. When a key like that doesn’t completely fit your lock cylinder, the wheel stays locked.
But if you have another key, you can insert it, turn it, and steer all at once. The drawback of this approach is that not all automakers offer second keys, particularly for more recent vehicle models.
Spray WD40
Spray some WD40 inside the ignition key if all other options have failed. WD40 is a well-known all-purpose product that can be used to lubricate, remove moisture, stop rust, unstick objects, etc. When debris accumulates in the lock tumblers, a steering wheel may become jammed.
Apply a good amount of the substance, then insert the key. While twisting your steering, turn it in both directions. This remedy ought to dislodge any contaminants that may be trapped inside and solve the issue.
Replacing Ignition Set
If the previously mentioned methods don’t work to free a jammed steering wheel, you might need to use a more technical method. We must acknowledge that not all car owners are knowledgeable or at ease using a DIY method. Therefore, when all else fails and professional assistance is required, we advise seeking it.
Disassemble The Column Panels
The steering wheel and column coverings must first be separated. How to do it:
- Start by releasing the downward-facing screws on either side of the steering column.
- To release the panel, depress the tabs on the panel cover while turning the wheel.
- The upper half of the column cover can be separated using the same procedure as before.
Clear The Lock Cylinder
You should be able to see your lock cylinder once you’ve taken the panels off. Insert your key, find the release tab, and depress it to make it active. Press the tab while turning the key, then wait for the cylinder to begin moving before removing it.
Fix The Replacement Ignition-Lock System
The replacement ignition-lock system can now be installed. Before removing the cylinder, slide it back into the same spot. Before inserting your lock tab, make sure it is securely in the cylinder. Reinstalling the column is the next step, but first you need to make sure the key turns all the way.
Reinstall The Columns
Reinstall the bottom and upper column panels after making sure the key spins all the way in the cylinder. The screws should be securely fastened, and all clips should lock as they did before disassembly.
Spray Electrical Cleaner Into The Keyhole
For this fix, you’ll need to lubricate and clean the keyhole with an electrical cleaner. A little bit should be sprayed in the keyhole, but not too much. Next, keep entering and removing the key to disperse the cleaner evenly.
Apply Canned Air Into The Ignition
In the keyhole, debris or any other impurity could prohibit the key from spinning. In that situation, canned air can be useful. In order to loosen and remove any contaminants that may be lodged inside, insert the can nozzle into the keyhole.
Slide The Key Gently Inside And Out Several Times
You ought to now repeatedly insert and delete the key. On sometimes, dust could lodge between your ignition cylinder’s pins. Any such dirt or debris will be moved by carefully sliding the key in.
Make Sure The Key Is Not Damaged
In certain cases, a close examination of the key may be all that is necessary to diagnose the issue. A key that is bent or damaged won’t be able to engage the ignition’s pins deep enough to turn the ignition.
Your car key must be completely replaced if it has any bends or teeth that are chipped. You might think about replacing the key. However, if the original is already distorted, you cannot create a useful copy from it.
Q: How to unlock a steering wheel push to start?
How can I unlock the push-to-start button on my steering wheel? You must have noticed that when you turn off your car and remove your key, the steering will lock. Therefore, there are two ways to unlock your steering wheel while using a push start button.
- You might try lightly shaking the steering wheel back and forth while applying the brake and pushing the start button once.
- You can remove your foot from the stop pedal, push the start button twice, and move the steering wheel simultaneously. The ignition will start with either choice.
Q: What causes the power steering wheel to lock?
(1) A power steering system issue; a leak in the power steering fluid or a power steering system that becomes blocked or stuck could result in steering wheel lock-up.
(2) The steering wheel features an auto-lock feature that locks the steering when you turn off the engine and take your key out of the ignition. To reduce the frequency of auto theft, this function was included.
(3) If there is a problem with the steering column, rack, or suspension parts, your steering wheel may lock while you are driving. Even though it is uncommon, this does happen.
Q: What happens if my steering wheel locks up?
If your steering wheel locks up unexpectedly while you’re driving, you won’t be able to turn it to steer clear of traffic, which could cause a serious car accident if someone is trying to pass you. Power steering leaks, unclean steering fluid, or a problem with the suspension or steering column could all be contributing factors, though.
Q: Can a steering wheel lock while driving?
Yes! Even still, this is a rare instance. The automatic locking steering mechanisms seen in the majority of contemporary cars are only intended to engage while the car is stationary or parked. This is a safety and theft-prevention system.
Q: How much does it cost to unlock a steering wheel?
If you adhere to the recommendations above, unlocking a steering wheel could practically cost you nothing. However, the price to unlock a steering wheel can range from $100 to $400, depending on the nature of the issue, the cost of the parts, and the labor rate.
Why won’t my car start and why is my steering wheel locked?
You will have to turn the key in the ignition and attempt to start the car while simultaneously attempting to rotate the steering wheel from side to side. You can unlock the steering wheel and start your car at the same time by doing these two operations.
How come the steering wheel is locked?
A compelling query and a perilous circumstance. Even though steering wheel lock-up on newer cars is uncommon, it can happen. Sharp turns or issues with the power steering system, the steering rack, column, or suspension are the most frequent causes of steering wheel locking while driving.
Here’s a more thorough justification:
- Your power steering pump may become clogged with debris or stuck, or your car may leak power steering fluid, both of which can cause the wheel to lock up. Any one of these problems can make steering quite challenging.
- Issue with the steering rack, column, or suspension: Your steering wheel will very seldom lock up as a result of a problem with your car’s suspension, steering rack, or column.
- A vehicle’s ignition system may occasionally experience a fatigue failure, in which case your car key won’t turn the ignition on or off. This may result in the steering wheel locking if your car is already moving.
- Yes, if you want to pretend that you’re driving in the Formula One, all those rapid spins can wear down your car’s steering mechanism and cause your wheel to lock up.
Although steering wheel locking is a rare occurrence, it could pose a serious risk to you, your passengers, and other motorists. Take your automobile to a reliable mechanic to have the problem identified and corrected if you detect any problems with the steering wheel.
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