You may have often encountered hard starting problems with your car, but it doesn’t bother you until the steering wheel locks. Sometimes the car’s steering wheel locks and you also can’t turn the ignition key. The problem can occur for several reasons. In situations where no help is available nearby, you need to know how to unlock the steering wheel without a key by yourself.
Yes, it is entirely possible and there are 2 ways to do it. But first, let’s find out why steering wheels lock!
Why do steering wheels lock?
You might be wondering why your steering wheel suddenly locks when you haven’t done anything to it. There are 2 main reasons behind the wheels locking.
The first is for safety reasons. So, whenever you turn off the ignition and remove your car key, the steering wheel locks. Car manufacturers have built this feature into the car so that your car doesn’t move on its own accidentally.
The second is to protect your car from theft. The thief or mischievous people could steal your car using the hotwiring technique.
So to prevent this, manufacturers add this feature to cars. So now you know the reason why the steering wheel locks, let’s move on to how to unlock the steering wheel without the key.
What do you need to unlock the steering wheel?
There are three ways to achieve this feat. And you don’t need a whole arsenal of tools to unlock your car’s steering wheel. All the tools you need for “how to unlock the steering wheel without a key” in your toolbox are:
- Screwdriver
- A socket set
- WD40
How to unlock the steering wheel without a key?
Let’s explore the two ways to easily tip. Let’s visit each one by one.
Method 1: Unlocking the steering by yourself
Here are three alternatives in this category to bypass the steering wheel lock.
1. Try inserting the key
Try inserting the key into the ignition and turn the key and the steering wheel left and right at the same time. Make sure it’s simultaneous. If the lock is accidental, this trick will fix it in a click. The result: the key will turn fully, just like the steering wheel.
Tip for unlocking the steering wheel without a key: Use normal force. If you feel the movement is greater, which may be the case most of the time, try turning it further on that side. Do not apply pressure to avoid permanent damage to the locking mechanism.
2. Try using another key
Try using another key if key #1 fails. Sometimes, the problem could be with the key. Perhaps the previous owner of the used car you bought didn’t keep it very well.
If you have the second key, try it. There’s a good chance it will work. If the spare key doesn’t turn immediately, try key #1 with it. However, it’s possible that newer cars don’t provide this spare key.
3. If all else fails, try spraying WD40
If all else fails, try spraying WD40 into the ignition slot. It’s possible the wheel is locked due to hardened lock numbers; this solution will help you free the lock cylinder.
Once you’ve sprayed WD40, insert the key into the ignition slot and try turning it back and forth.
Even if this trick works, you might need to replace the lock cylinder later.
Method 2: Unlocking via ignition kit replacement
This is a treat for knowing how to remove the steering wheel lock without a key. This part is a bit technical, but you’ll need to resort to it if the alternatives mentioned above don’t work. You might also need a mechanic to help you.
And yes, you must carefully read your car’s owner’s manual before handling a steering wheel lock this way.
1. Remove the column panels
Remove the steering column panels. Simply loosen the screws holding the lower part of the steering wheel. Press the cover tabs and the lower part will come free. Similarly, remove the upper column as well.
2. Release the lock cylinder
Release the lock cylinder by identifying the unlock tab in the ignition lock system, pressing it, and turning the key until the cylinder retracts. Try it several times to release the cylinder.
3. Install the new ignition lock system
Install the new ignition lock system and try again with the old key. Now insert the lock cylinder as if it were in the steering column. Make sure you have completely set the lock tab in the lock cylinder before you can continue.
Check the key for a full turn now. You must ensure you can do this before you can reset the columns.
4. Reinstall the columns
Reinstall the columns now; first the upper part, followed by the lower part. Check that all clips are fully engaged and that they lock properly.
Screw it on tightly so everything is in place. So this is the second method for unlocking the steering wheel without a key.
Method 3: Unlocking by loosening sticky locks
Another method for unlocking the steering wheel without a key is to loosen sticky locks.
1. Put electrical cleaner in the lock hole
So, when the cylinder is stuck, spray a small amount of electrical cleaner into the lock hole. Remember to put a “small amount” from the sprayer. Once you’ve done that, insert your key and turn it back and forth gently to work the lubricant in.
2. Spray canned air into the ignition
It’s possible that debris stuck in the ignition is preventing the key from turning and the steering wheel is locked. Use the canned air sprayer and insert the nozzle straw directly into the lock hole. This will help clean any debris inside the lock hole.
3. Gently slide the key in and out several times.
The third step to unlock the steering wheel without a key is to gently insert and remove the key from the lock hole.
Secondly, debris can get stuck in the ignition cylinder pins. So, gently moving the key will help dislodge debris that might be stuck in the cylinder.
4. Make sure the key is not bent or damaged
In some cases, rounded or chipped key teeth will no longer engage the ignition cylinder pins to the depth needed to turn it. That’s why the key doesn’t turn when you insert it into the ignition.
You can replace the key if it’s too damaged to turn the ignition cylinder. You should ask the dealer to work on your car, as copying the damaged key won’t help you solve the problem.
Important Tips
- Check the power steering fluid level. Sometimes a lack of it can worsen problems.
- No matter if someone tells you they know how to unlock the steering wheel without a key. Don’t do it. It can irreparably damage your vehicle.
Summary
So this is about knowing how to unlock the steering wheel without a key. You can try these maintenance tips to save yourself a lot of trouble at home and ask for a technician’s help if needed. Remember to follow us to better care for your car.