Tips on How to Unlock a Steering Wheel
![Hands on a steering wheel]( "Hands on a steering wheel")
You’ll be surprised how often drivers realize that they’ve accidentally locked their steering wheel until they try to drive. If you’re having trouble starting your FIAT, Dodge, Ram car, or the key won’t turn in the ignition, chances are the steering wheel may be locked. There’s no cause for alarm; this often happens by accident and it’s an easy fix. Learn how to unlock a steering wheel below, courtesy of the service experts at Hendrick Dodge Cary.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Unlock a Steering Wheel
Unlocking the steering wheel is easy. Follow these steps below:
- Pull the wheel down in the same direction that you did when the wheel was first locked.
- Unsure about which direction that is? Try both — the wheel will move a bit when you pull in the right direction.
- While holding your steering wheel in the right direction, insert your key into the ignition and start the engine.
- If the wheel doesn’t unlock and/or the engine doesn’t start, turn the wheel in the other direction and repeat the step above.
- Your steering wheel should now be unlocked!
Unlocking a Steering Wheel: Handy Tips
Keep these tips in mind when unlocking your steering to avoid causing any damage:
- Avoid using brute force to unlock a locked steering wheel; you could damage parts of the steering mechanism.
- Try a different key if you can’t turn the key, as the problem may be the key itself and not the steering wheel. The key can be worn and can’t engage the car’s tumblers. If you think there’s an issue with your key, our parts department can make you a new one.
How to Lock Your Steering Wheel Intentionally
There are several benefits to locking your steering intentionally. If you’re not in a familiar area and you need to leave your car for a while, this provides an extra level of security. Locking your steering wheel makes it more difficult for someone to start your car. Follow these steps below to lock your steering wheel:
- Turn off your car and take the keys out of the ignition.
- Turn the steering wheel one way or the other until you hear a click.
- Your steering wheel will lock until you return. Unlock the steering wheel and start your car.
Get More Service Tips at Hendrick Dodge Cary!
If you’ve tried all of the steps above and you still can’t unlock your steering wheel, contact our service center to schedule a service appointment. Our certified team will inspect your vehicle and get to the root of the problem. Before stopping by, don’t forget to check out our current selection of service specials to use on your next appointment.
More from Hendrick Dodge Cary
When you’re in the market for a powerful car that will definitely steal the spotlight on the Apex roads, you’ll expect the car to come in a wide range of colors that match that bold energy. The 2022 Dodge Challenger delivers that exactly! Both the exterior and interior colors provide a variety of styles, so…
Read More
The new Dodge Durango combines muscle car performance and SUV convenience in one athletic package, with strong towing power and up to 293 hp in the baseline engine alone. The 2022 Dodge Durango price starts at $36,995 MSRP for the entry-level SXT RWD configuration, but there’s plenty of room to upgrade and save with new…
Read More
The Dodge Challenger offers ten different ways to experience this iconic muscle car on the Apex roads, and while all configurations are exceptionally made, we think there’s something truly special about the 2022 Dodge Challenger Hellcat models. The Dodge SRT lineup delivers world-class specs, reaching up to 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque for…
Read More
Hendrick Vehicle Disclaimer
$699.00 Dealer Administrative Fee not included in advertised price.
Advertised prices EXCLUDE options added by the dealer and displayed on the vehicle’s window sticker addendum. Please contact dealer for additional details.
All prices exclude all taxes, tag, title, registration fees and government fees. Out of state buyers are responsible for all taxes and government fees and title/registration fees in the state where the vehicle will be registered. All prices include all manufacturer to dealer incentives, which the dealer retains unless otherwise specifically provided. Dealer not responsible for errors and omissions; all offers subject to change without notice; please confirm listings with dealer.
All vehicles may not be physically located at this dealership but may be available for delivery through this location. Transportation charges may apply. Please contact the dealership for more specific information. All vehicles are subject to prior sale.
Additional Disclaimers:
*For well-qualified buyers. Not all buyers will qualify for the lowest rates. Must receive financing through Chrysler Capital. Example down payment is 10%. 1.9% APR financing for 60 Months equals $17.48 per month per $1,000 financed for well-qualified buyers through Chrysler Capital regardless of down payment. Not all buyers will qualify. Not compatible with any other inventive programs or offer. See dealer for details. Must take retail delivery by 07/05/2022.
*For well-qualified buyers. Not all buyers will qualify for the lowest rates. Must receive financing through Chrysler Capital. Example down payment is 10%. 0% APR financing for 48 Months equals $20.83 per month per $1,000 financed for well-qualified buyers through Chrysler Capital regardless of down payment. Not all buyers will qualify. Not compatible with any other inventive programs or offer. See dealer for details. Must take retail delivery by 07/05/2022.
*Offer does not apply to the Scat Pack and Hellcat models. See dealer for complete details. Offer expires June 30th, 2022.
*Offer does not apply to the Crew Cab 4×4 models. See dealer for complete details. Offer expires June 30th, 2022.
