Ignition won’t turn, steering wheel lock not engaged.
My key will not turn in my ignition, I have checked dozens of times to be sure it is fully in park, battery is charged, key is not obstructed, etc. The strange part is that the steering wheel lock that usually stops you from turning your wheels when the key is off, is not engaged. It normally is, but I can turn my wheel freely with the key out now. Is it possible that the steering wheel lock has broken and is permanently stopping the key from turning?
My car has 200000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi, thanks for writing in. I’d be happy to provide my insight. It is possible the ignition mechanism is broken inside the steering column. I suggest trying to turn over your car with a spare key, to see if the ignition turns with the different key. If you do not have an extra key, then look at the key you have to see if it shows signs of wear. If it is, then have a copy made to see if that works.
If you would like help looking at your ignition system, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
If your steering wheel locks up while the car is in motion, perhaps the most likely culprit is a lack of power steering fluid, or dirty power steering fluid. Especially at lower speeds like parking lot maneuvers, the power steering system allows you to turn the wheels with ease.
For your safety, the steering wheel has a lock that activates if someone moves the wheel when there`s no key in the ignition. This makes the vehicle harder to steal. However, if you`ve moved the wheel before turning on the car, the lock may still be in place.
Pump malfunctions, fluid leaks, blocked hoses, contamination of power steering fluid, or worn power steering belts are some specific factors that can contribute to steering system failure.
The three main reasons why an ignition key will not turn include: problems with related components, issues with the key itself, and ignition lock cylinder problems. Tip: Always make sure your parking brake is on to keep the vehicle secure when following these steps.
A simple solution to getting the ignition key to turn may be as easy as checking the gear shift. In automatic cars, the ignition key won`t turn in the lock if it`s not parked or in neutral. Gently move the gear shift from side to side to check its fully in position, before trying to turn the key.
Jiggling the key – Another easy method for removing a stuck key is to push down on the key cylinder with your left index finger while simultaneously jiggling the key with your right hand. This can loosen the grasp of the springs and pins located inside the cylinder and allow the key to slide out.
The steering wheel lock-up is a hazardous problem. If brushed off and not completely solved, it could lead to a fatal accident or a severe car crash. So, if you think you have a lock-up on your hands, drive to the auto shop as soon as possible.
What happens: Unlike the wheelspin, a “wheel lockup” will happen if you brake too hard or all of a sudden. Your car will be moving, but the wheels will stop spinning. Ah! What to do: Simply take your foot off the brake until the wheels start moving again.
If the ignition switch is left in the “Lock” position, this will lock the car until it moves the key from the lock position. That means that if the ignition switch is in the locked position, no matter how you try, the engine will not start. That means, even if the battery is dead.
The most common cause of a stiff steering wheel is when you are running low on power steering fluid in your system. Often, this happens when there is a leak in the system from the pressurized hose area. Most of the time, it is due to a cracked or loose hose causing the fluid to leak out.
As with all lock issues, a key spinning in a lock could be due to a number of different reasons depending on the lock type. It often means the internal mechanism has detached, resulting in the power of your turn not affecting the bolt. Alternatively, the cylinder itself may be loose.
The three main reasons why an ignition key will not turn include: problems with related components, issues with the key itself, and ignition lock cylinder problems. Tip: Always make sure your parking brake is on to keep the vehicle secure when following these steps.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Ignition won’t turn, steering wheel lock not engaged.
ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. I’d be happy to provide my insight. It is possible the ignition mechanism is broken inside the steering column. I suggest trying to turn over your car with a spare key, to see if the ignition turns with the different key. If you do not have an extra key, then look at the key you have to see if it shows signs of wear. If it is, then have a copy made to see if that works.
If you would like help looking at your ignition system, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.
steering wheel won’t unlock my key turns only to turn lights on but that’s it can’t unlock steering wheel to start the car what to
ANSWER : The steering lock may not be unlocking either due to a faulty ignition lock housing or more commonly as the cars age a faulty spring at the steering wheel on the under side of the column. If the ignition lock housing is the issue the housing can be replaced. It s a bit tricky as the mounting bolt has break off heads and generally need to be driven out with a punch. If the lock is not disengaging because of a faulty spring on the ignition lock many owners have had the spring removed by having it drilled out of the housing. However, removing the spring may permanently disable the steering lock. The last option would be to replace the steering column. You may want to enlist the help of a mechanic who can recommend the proper repair for your situation.
steering wheel turned to the far right and locked in place while the wheel are straight. and I can’t turn the key.
ANSWER : Hi there. From the description you have provided, concerning your vehicle’s steering wheel is locked far right and key won’t turn with the front wheels in a forward default position, is somewhat confusing to me. It could be, undo pressure is being applied to the steering wheel lock. You could try, physically moving the left front tire side to side in either direction, to relieve the pressure on the steering wheel lock. It could be, the key you are using has a problem, try another key if available. It could be, the ignition lock cylinder is at fault. I recommend having your vehicle’s can’t turn the key be diagnosed and repaired by a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic.
Steering wheel won’t lock. Yellow steering lock warning on dash. Only comes on when removing fob.
ANSWER : Hi there. The issue seems to be the shifter interlock solenoid may be malfunctioning causing the steering wheel lock to not release or not engage.
I suggest having the computer scanned for any codes that would be stored or pending for the steering system as there is a warning light on for the steering lock system. This will give you the correct item to check when dealing with your steering wheel not locking. If you need further assistance with the steering wheel not locking, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Steering wheel does not center
ANSWER : The problem to me sounds like you have worn out bushings that hold the power steering rack and pinion assembly. This is why your steering wheel gets off center in the direction of the turn. Have the steering inspected and the bushings replaced if they are bad. You should have no problems then.
Key won’t turn after installing new ignition cylinder and ignition lock. Need help polishing things off.
ANSWER : Hi there:
This problem tends to occur when an aftermarket ignition cylinder is used for the replacement project. The inner lock housing sometimes doesn’t always fit flush to OEM steering columns, which can create the symptoms you’re experiencing.
Here are the directions on how to replace an ignition cylinder article, you should check out. The best option is to remove the old one, and start from scratch. Verify that you’re using an OEM replacement cylinder; as aftermarket parts typically cause more hassle than help in this case.
If you need assistance with fixing this issue, consider YourMechanic, as one of our mobile technicians can come to your home to diagnose the issue with your key firsthand for an accurate repair.
Hard to turn steering wheel when on park.
ANSWER : Hey there. There is a check valve in the power steering pump that quite often sticks after a rebuild. Since these are "restoration" components, they tend to sit on shelves longer than present-day parts. Tap lightly on the power steering pump housing and shaft with a hammer to "unstick" the check valve.
It is also possible that the control valve, which routes high pressure fluid to the "power assist" cylinder, is sticking or was not properly rebuilt. With this power assist system, which acts on the steering drag link to assist turning the front wheels, rather than through the gearbox itself – it is really irrelevant whether the steering gearbox is manual or power.
If you prefer some assistance with this issue, I would recommend having a steering system inspection conducted so that this issue can be repaired correctly.
Key won’t turn in the ignition – 2002 Ford Focus
ANSWER : Typically when the steering wheel locks up it will still feel springy in one direction. You will want to simultaneously turn the key in the ignition and turn the steering wheel in the direction that feels spongy. Now addressing the brake issue. What happens when you press on the brake pedal? Do the brakes hit the floor? These two systems do not have much in common at all. These should not affect each other. The cylinder may be dirty or damaged. You can attempt to clean it with electrical cleaner or air. If the cylinder or the key are damaged, replacing them is the only true fix. I recommend having your ignition key inspected by a professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic.
