Car Steering Locked? Don't Panic, Here's an Easy Way to Unlock It

A locked steering wheel is a classic problem that often occurs for car owners. The causes vary, from locking the steering wheel when the car wheels are not in a straight position, to locking the steering wheel before the car engine is turned off. Many panic when this incident occurs. So what is the right solution to address this? For more details, please pay attention to the following review.

Easy Ways to Unlock a Locked Car Steering Wheel

When your car's steering wheel suddenly locks, there are several ways you can do to unlock the locked steering wheel. Here are the complete methods.

1. Use a spare key

The first way, you can unlock the locked steering wheel using a spare key. Make sure you always carry a spare key when you plan to travel using the car. Unlock the locked steering wheel just like you would with the original key. Once the steering wheel is successfully unlocked, store the spare key in a place that is easy for you to remember and safe. So if this incident happens again, you can use that spare key.

2. Try to unlock the locked steering wheel through the ignition slot

If the first method does not work, you can use the second method, which is to unlock the locked steering wheel through the ignition slot. Here are the steps you can practice.

First, insert your spare car key into the ignition slot.
Then turn the spare key. If the key turns, then the locked steering wheel is unlocked along with the ignition cylinder.
If this method still does not work, you can repeat the steps but gently press the key while turning it slowly. Because if turned too hard, it can cause the key to break.
If this method also does not work, you can direct the steering wheel position towards the pin so that the steering wheel cannot move. Then, press in the opposite direction while turning the key in the ignition slot.

3. Use lubricant

The third way, you can use lubricant. A locked car steering wheel may be caused by a buildup of dirt or rust in the steering lock hole. To address this issue, you can apply a little lubricant to the steering lock area before inserting it into the car's steering lock hole. This lubricant will reduce friction in the lock when you are unlocking it.

4. Turn the wheels left and right

If the steering wheel is locked due to the car wheels not being straight, you can turn your car wheels from left to right repeatedly. When doing this, make sure to do it slowly to avoid damaging the car steering lock system.

5. Press the stop engine/start button while turning the steering wheel

For those of you using newer cars equipped with stop engine or start engine features, you can take advantage of this feature. The method is very easy, you just need to turn your car's steering wheel left and right while pressing this feature simultaneously. Avoid using the brake when doing this to prevent damaging the steering lock system.

Thus, here are some easy ways you can try when your car's steering wheel is locked. If these methods still cannot resolve your issue, you can contact a mechanic from the nearest Daihatsu workshop.