Tips on How to Unlock a Steering Wheel

Most of the time, you wind up locking your steering wheel unintentionally while running errands around Beatrice. If you’re having trouble getting your car to start ,and the key won’t turn in the ignition, chances are you’ve locked your steering wheel. While this can be a slight annoyance when done unintentionally, learning how to lock your steering wheel and subsequently how to unlock it again are great skills to have. Below, you can review our service tips to find the easy fix for a locked steering wheel!

How to Unlock a Steering Wheel: Step-by-Step Guide

The good news is that if you’ve found that your steering wheel is locked, there’s no need to panic. Unlocking a steering wheel is easy, just follow these simple steps:

• Pull the wheel in the same direction you did when you locked it.
• If you’re not sure which direction to pull, gently try both. 
• When you pull in the right direction, you’ll feel the wheel give slightly. While holding the steering wheel in that direction, insert your key, and start the engine. 
• If the engine doesn’t start or the wheel doesn’t unlock, repeat the process while holding the wheel in the other direction.
• Your steering wheel should now be unlocked! 

Unlocking a Steering Wheel: Tips to Keep in Mind

Keep the following in mind to unlock your steering wheel without damaging your car in the process:

• Avoid Using Brute Force: While a locked steering wheel can be frustrating, resist the temptation to try and force the wheel to unlock. If you apply too much force, you may damage parts of the steering wheel. Instead, apply gentle pressure while following the steps above. 
• Try a Different Key: Sometimes, the inability to turn a key in an ignition isn’t caused by a locked steering wheel. You may be using a key that’s too worn out to engage the car’s tumblers. Try using another key if you have one! If not, Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln can help you get a replacement key.

How to Lock Your Steering Wheel Intentionally

As previously mentioned, locking your steering wheel is beneficial in certain situations. Learning how to lock your steering wheel adds an extra layer of security when you leave your vehicle in unfamiliar areas. A locked steering wheel makes it more difficult to steal your car. To lock your steering wheel, follow these steps:

• Turn off your car, and remove the key from the ignition. 
• Turn the steering wheel in one direction or the other until you hear a click.
• Your steering wheel should now be locked until you return. Once you’re back, you can unlock the steering wheel, start your car, and head out on the Hickman streets. 

Learn More with Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln! 

If you have lingering questions about how to unlock a steering wheel, Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln is here to help! You can reach out at (402) 464-6500 or visit us in Lincoln for a consultation on all things car care. Along with teaching you how to lock your steering wheel, our team has all sorts of information to guide you through those DIY projects in your Omaha garage. From tips on improving gas mileage to information on how to clean your leather car seats, you can entrust us to offer the guidance you need!