The steering wheel lock has an anti-theft function that prevents it from moving when someone inserts the wrong key in the ignition. If someone tries to steal your car with the wrong keys, they won’t be able to steer the vehicle. The system also activates automatically the moment we remove the keys from the ignition. However, removing the block is very simple.
In this guide, we will discuss how to unlock a locked steering wheel using some simple methods.
Methods of Unlocking Car Steering Wheel
There are different methods of unlocking a stuck steering wheel. However, it becomes easier if you know the cause of the steering wheel lock. You can use different methods to unlock the steering, but the following are some tools that you will need to solve the problem.
- Screwdrivers
- WD40
- Socket Set
Method 1: Unlocking Car Steering Wheel with the Key
The first method of unlocking a car steering wheel is putting a key in the ignition and turning it on. Following are the directions to use the method effectively:
Step 1: Turn the Key
The steering sometimes gets stuck when you apply force on the wheel while switching off the car. In that case, enter the key in the ignition and slowly turn it while repeatedly moving the steering wheel from right to left. The steering wheel will be unlocked as the engine starts. If not, then you should try the next step below.
Step 2: Use Another Key
In some cases, the steering wheel locks due to the key wear. When the worn key is compared to a new key, the edges will be quite worn, and the pattern might not match. In that case, it is important to keep a spare key. Use the emergency key and see if it turns fully in the key cylinder and unlock the steering wheel.
Step 3: Use the Wd40 to Release the Ignition Lock Cylinder
In some cases, the vehicle’s lock triggers are frozen, causing the steering wheel to jam. Spray WD 40 into the lock cylinder, then insert the key gently. Rotate it a few times to try to loosen the channels. The spray can clean dirt and debris and free the lock cylinder.
Even if WD40 solves your problem and releases the lock cylinder, it is an indication that you need to replace the lock.
Example:
If you don’t know how to unlock the steering wheel of Range Rover, then follow this method:
You can insert the key and turn the key to the on position. However, if the key will not turn to the on position, turn the ignition using one hand and slowly move the steering wheel back and forth with your other. In case this technique fails, you can try using a new key to get the steering unlocked.
Method 2: Unlocking Car Steering Wheel Through Ignition Set Replacement
If the steering wheel still doesn’t move with any of the aforementioned methods, you might need to replace the ignition lock assembly. With the help of these steps, you might unlock the steering wheel by replacing the ignition set. The price of ignition set in the UAE starts from AED 130.
Step 1: Release the Column Panels
Pick up the screwdriver and loosen the screw of column panels placed on the lower part of your car’s steering.
Once you remove all the screws, press the tab on the cover to release the bottom half of the top. Repeat the procedure to remove the lower half of the steering column.
Step 2: Unfasten the Cylinder
To unfasten the cylinder, you need to find the lock release tab on the ignition lock system and gently press it in. Turn the key simultaneously until the cylinder moves backwards and is freed. It may take several tries to release the lock cylinder.
Step 3: Install the New Ignition Lock Cylinder
Once you remove the old lock cylinder, it’s time to install a new one in the steering column. While installing the new lock cylinder, make sure the locking tab is fully in place and locked well. Also, check if the key turns completely and the steering wheel is unlocked before reinstalling the new panels.
Step 4: Reinstall the Panels
In the last step, you reinstall the panels to their original place. The installation procedure starts with the upper panel, followed by the lower one, ensuring they are securely fit. Also, make sure that all the clips are tightly in place and locked together.
After completing all the above steps, you should be able to unlock the car steering wheel. If the ignition set’s replacement doesn’t work, you need to visit the nearest car replacement and repair centres.
A car steering lock is quite a useful safety feature; however, you can buy car accessories on sale and upgrade the security of your car. Also, you can find several types of steering wheel locks for better safety.
This concludes our guide on how to unlock a locked steering wheel. We hope that now you can easily unlock the steering wheel of a car without rushing to any vehicle replacement centre.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s leading automotive blog to find out more about car accessories and gadgets.
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