How do I engage my steering wheel lock?
The steering wheel lock is directly connected to the ignition cylinder. To unlock your steering wheel, use your left hand to wiggle the steering wheel left and right with significant force. At the same time, use your right hand to turn the ignition key from the LOCK position to the ACC (accessory) or START position.
What happens when you remove the key from the steering wheel?
In many vehicles, removing the key locks the steering wheel from turning. Occasionally, because of this lock, the steering wheel can get stuck, which in turn means the vehicle key also becomes stuck and cannot move to release it.
What causes a locked steering wheel to not turn in?
If a locked steering wheel is the only thing preventing your key from turning the ignition, then follow our instructions below for How to Unlock a Locked Steering wheel and you will be back on the road fast. Problem 2. Dirt, pocket lint or debris (like tape from opening a package) may cause your key not to turn in your ignition lock cylinder.
What to do if your car key is stuck?
Use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to remove any foreign material that may be stuck to the key. You can then attempt to start the car again.
Where can I get a spare key for my car?
If you do not, you can obtain a spare key by writing down your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is found on the driver’s side windshield or inside the door jamb. You will then want to contact your dealership to get a new key made. Some newer cars have key codes attached to a set of keys.
How do you unlock a locked steering wheel?
Unlocking it will require using the ignition key in the same way you would when starting the vehicle. Insert the key into the ignition and see if it will turn. If the key will turn and start the vehicle, the wheel will unlock with the ignition cylinder.
If a locked steering wheel is the only thing preventing your key from turning the ignition, then follow our instructions below for How to Unlock a Locked Steering wheel and you will be back on the road fast. Problem 2. Dirt, pocket lint or debris (like tape from opening a package) may cause your key not to turn in your ignition lock cylinder.
Is it possible to unlock a car by turning the key?
It may take a few tries, but if you apply pressure to the wheel in the right direction while simultaneously turning the key, it will unlock both, allowing the wheel to move freely and the vehicle to start. While it may take a fair amount of pressure, do not force either the wheel or the ignition to turn if they seem like they won’t.
What to do when your steering wheel won’t release?
Apply pressure to the ignition key (twisting in direction to start) while trying to move the steering wheel from side to side. The steering wheel should release.