How to Disable Steering Wheel Lock?

If you’re very familiar with driving and drivers, you’ll agree with me that one of the most common challenges is when the steering wheel gets locked.

Turning your steering wheel becomes a mission impossible and that’s very risky for yourself, other drivers, and pedestrians.

In this guide, I’ll show you why your steering wheel gets locked, the best steering wheel lock on the market, the needed tools, and the A-Z guide on how to disable your steering wheel lock.

Tips

Disabling a steering lock is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is make sure your key is in the ignition, and turn the steering wheel forth and back to ease the lock’s tension.

Once you do that, you should be able to successfully turn the key, and the lock cylinder will release.

Reasons Why Your Steering Wheel Locks

You must come to understand that the mere fact your steering wheel gets locked up doesn’t mean there’s a problem with your vehicle.

Let’s run through the most common reasons:

1. Auto-lock Feature

Many new-generation vehicles out there are built with an auto-lock safety measure that activates the steering wheel lock anytime you turn off the ignition.

But then, you shouldn’t see it as a disadvantage. The idea is to avoid your car from zooming off on its own.

2. Anti-theft Feature

This is another possible reason why your wheel gets locked. Car manufacturers introduced this feature to give you a world free of car thieves and hijackers.

Anytime a car thief attempts to steal your vehicle through the regular hot-wiring method, such an unwanted guest won’t be able to disengage the lock or turn the steering wheel.

3. Steering Wheel Problems

4. Mechanical Failure

It’s also possible that your car experiences a mechanical failure with the rack, steering column, or suspension components.

The Best Steering Wheel Lock on the Market

Tevlaphee Universal Steering Wheel Brake Lock Anti-Theft Retractable Double Hook Car Clutch Pedal Lock 

What makes me feel more assured about Tevlaphee Steering Wheel Lock is that it offers me double protection.

It prevents thieves from entering your car. Even if they managed to find their way in by smashing through the window or door, the steering wheel lock turns stronger and more secure!

Features:

• The lock works for 7.5 to 11.8-inch width tires.
• Made from high-quality aluminum/alloy.
• Each lockset has 2 adhesive tapes, 1 lock unit, and 3 keys.
• The brake hook’s exterior is covered with plastic rubber and the inner part has solid steel.

Pros:

• Safety hook-self protection.
• Pick-proof locking mechanism.
• Safe to use and very durable.
• Sturdy construction and heavy-duty.
• Wear-resistant.
• Works with different cars’ make and model.

Cons:

• Too long.

The Needed Tools to Disable Your Wheel Lock

• Electric Cleaner.
• Hammer.
• Screwdrivers.
• Ignition system replacement.
• Compressed air.
• WD 40.

Step-by-step Guide to Disable Your Steering Wheel Lock

There are 3 major methods you need to learn if you want to disable your steering wheel lock with a turn-key. Here they are:

Method 1: Using a Key

You have 4 options to explore if you think using a key is your best bet to unlock your wheel.

One:

Insert your key into the ignition port, and make sure you’re turning the key and steering wheel to both sides simultaneously.

That’s a simple trick that’ll save you if the lock occurred accidentally.

Two:

Another way out is when the original key isn’t working, I’ll suggest you try a spare. That’s because keys warp and fail sometimes, so the original key might also be the problem.

Three:

You can also try inserting the key halfway and softly tapping it with a hammer.

However, you need to be very cautious about the angle and the amount of force used because the lock might get damaged.

Four:

There’s also the WD40 option. You can spray it into the ignition area. After that, you can insert the key and turn it sideways.

If it works, you should change the lock cylinder as soon as possible.

Method 2: Change of Ignition Set

This method is a bit technical, so I’ll suggest you consult your mechanic to make the process easier and faster.

Although ignition system removal depends on your car’s type, I’ve created a general guide to removing and replacing a car’s ignition.

• Remove the steering wheel’s column panels by loosening the screws that secure the lower hoist of the fork.
• There’s a tab on the cover. Press and pull it down the downside column and make sure it’s removed from the upper column.
• Look for the lock release tab in the ignition lock port. Press it and keep turning the ignition key until the cylinder tilts backward.
• Set up a brand new ignition port by changing the cylinder lock in the steering wheel’s column, and confirming that the lock tab is well-positioned in the cylinder lock.
• You should ascertain the key returns fully before you replace the column. If you’re convinced, you can try to unlatch the new ignition port with the old key.
• Replace the columns – starting from the upper part down to the lower part. Ensure the lock is secure and the clips are well-engaged before you tighten the screws.

Method 3: Disengaging Sticky Locks

Before we proceed, you should check the wheel’s fluid level because little or no fluid might complicate the issue.

After the confirmation, you can pour some electrical cleaner into the ignition keyhole.

Tuck the key into the ignition and softly turn it sideways to pave way for the cleaner. You can also use compressed air to clean up any debris in the keyhole.

Insert your turn-key into the ignition and tenderly pull it in and out as many times as you can.

It’ll help you remove any debris or dirt in the keyhole.

FAQs

Can You Disengage the Steering Wheel Lock With a Push-button?

Yes, you can. There are two ways to do that. You can release the brake pedal, grip the steering wheel with your left hand, and calmly turn sideways as you press the push button.

You can also remove your foot from the brake pedal, and press the push button twice while jerking the steering wheel forward and backward.

Conclusion

Whether your car uses a turn-key or push-button, I believe this guide is your key to understanding various ways to disengage your steering wheel lock.

Let’s hit the road with the assurance that both your car cannot fall into wrong hands!