Q: My steering locked up and the key won't turn
I just bought a new starter for my car. I installed it. Then my steering locked up on me when I tried to start the car. And when I tried to turn the key it wouldn’t turn. Do you have any advice or ideas?
Check the Steering Lock Module for faults. This component is tied into the vehicle security system (including your ignition key), and appears to have either failed or is not sync’ing correctly with the key and security system. A professional mechanic, like one from YourMechanic, can help inspect the ignition system to help have the no-start corrected.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
How do I use the rear side seat belt hooks?
The rear side seat belts can be stored along the door to keep them out of the way when you fold down the rear seats. To do this, simply hook the rear outer seat belts to the hooks below the...
Car will go into gear, but doesn't move
Hi. This can happen for a number of reasons. It may be the transmission or it can be a braking system failure. If the vehicle will not move at all, even in neutral, then the brakes may be locked up....
Engine knocking
Knocking in your engine, also described as pinging, can mean one of several problems. Some may be easily fixed while others may indicate major damage. The knocking sound often occurs when the fuel and air mixture is incorrect, which causes...
Instrument cluster shuts off intermittently while driving
There are two fuse boxes on the vehicle. One is inside of the firewall usually located in or around the dashboard. Have you checked this fuse box and the fuse box in the engine compartment? The dash cluster itself may...
Car is stalling - 1994 Lexus GS300
This may be related to a dirty or faulty idle air control valve. This is a unit that reads the air intake as it is mixed with fuel before entering the engine. This information is then relayed to the computer...
Rough idle, seems to misfire but never dies and no Check Engine Light.
This may be related to many things such as an ignition misfire, low fuel pressure or a dirty or failing idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement). The ignition misfire may also be caused by the low fuel pressure or idle control...
Should I purchase.
Hi there: You are correct about having major mechanical problems occur after 150,000 miles. However, with a vehicle like the Dodge Challenger; what's really the potential problem is how hard that vehicle was driven for the last 7 years. It's...
Car running really rough
Hi There, If you have tested and checked all coil packs and spark plugs with everything checking out properly, it may be likely that your issue is related to fuel delivery such as low fuel pressure or potentially a dirty...
Related articles
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Door Lock Relay
If the power door locks function intermittently or do not work at all, you may need to replace the door lock relay.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Steering Rack/Gearbox
Common signs include a very tight steering wheel, leaking power steering fluid, grinding noises when steering, and a burning oil smell.
How to Replace an Ignition Lock Assembly
An ignition lock assembly can fail from constant use or broken keys inside the tumbler. To replace it, all you need are some tools and a new cylinder.
Browse other content
Services
Estimates