How to Unlock a Steering Wheel

If you find that your car steering wheel is locked, it can be a frustrating situation for Pittsford drivers. A prime indicator that your steering wheel is locked is that your key won’t turn when inserted into the ignition. When this happens, there is no need for alarm: unlocking a steering wheel is usually an easy fix. Continue reading below on how to unlock a steering wheel, as well as how to lock your steering wheel with the service team at Ide VW of East Rochester. 

How to Unlock a Steering Wheel Step-by-Step 

The next time you find that your steering wheel is locked up, don’t fret. Instead, take the following steps below:

1. Begin my pulling the wheel doing in the same direction you did when the wheel was originally locked
2. If you’re unsure in which direction to pull, try pulling the wheel up and down–side to side. When you pull in the right direction, the wheel will shift a bit.
3. Once you’ve found the right direction, hold your steering wheel in that direction and place your key in the ignition to start the engine. 
4. In the case that the wheel won’t unlock or your engine won’t start, turn the wheel in the opposite direction and repeat the previous steps.
5. Boom! Your steering wheel should be unlocked.

Some tips to keep in mind: try avoiding too much force to unlock a locked steering wheel. This can inflict damage to parts of the steering mechanism. You may also have to try a different key if your steering wheel still won’t unlock, as the key could be worn out. If you’re in Webster and you find that your key is the source of the problem, contact Ide VW of East Rochester and we’ll help create a new one for you.

How to Lock Your Steering Wheel on Purpose

Believe it or not, there are some situations where you should lock your steering wheel. For example, if you’re leaving your car in an unfamiliar or unsafe area, you should take extra precautions by locking your steering wheel. Read below on the steps on how to lock your steering wheel deliberately the next time you venture out of Fairport:

1. If it is on, turn off your car and remove the keys from the ignition
2. Turn the steering wheel in one direction until you hear a click.
3. This should lock your steering wheel until you get back to your car to unlock it and start up your vehicle. 

Learn More Service Tips with Ide VW of East Rochester! 

Still struggling with getting your steering wheel unlocked? Our experienced technicians at Ide VW of East Rochester can help you out. Reach out to our service center online for any questions or to schedule an appointment, and then stop by our dealership located in East Rochester. In the meantime, browse our service tips and tricks to keep your Volkswagen in tip-top shape!