Q: Steering wheel locked key won't turn

asked by on February 06, 2017

Steering wheel is locked and key won't turn, was able to to unlock and turn ignition once but it locked up again, need to know what part is causing the problem and what part needs to be replaced to solve the issue. Thank You

My car has 70000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.

Steering wheel does not turn car Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. It’s quite possible that the ignition lock cylinder is damaged. However, it could be an internal issue with the steering column that is causing the steering wheel to lock. I would recommend having a professional mobile mechanic come to your location to complete a steering wheel locked inspection; so they can pinpoint the source of the problem and ensure the right repairs are made.

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


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you automatically transfer a call from a phone to the HandsFreeLink?
Your HandsFreeLink® (HFL) system is pretty advanced, and offers the ability to transfer a call from the phone to the car even if the call is already in progress. Here’s how to set up automatic transferring: Press the phone button...
Fan not working and car overheating.
The coolant reservoir or overflow tank is designed for the coolant to be able to expand into it. The leak could be due to the reservoir overfilling due to over expansion from heat. If the fan is not working, that...
How do I transfer a Bluetooth call to my cell phone?
When a paired device is in your vehicle, your phone calls will automatically go through the Bluetooth system. However, you can transfer a call to your cell phone if you would like to be secretive, or if you are getting...
Air conditioning blows cold air
If your vehicle is blowing only semi cold air, that may be a sign that perhaps it may be running low on refrigerant. Most vehicles use R134a refrigerant, and can usually be serviced easily via the low side a/c port...
Valve gaskets need replacing.
Hi. Your cooling and oil systems would need to be checked for leaks. These are two separate issues. The cooling system should not be getting low, except for a very small amount over a six to twelve month period. The...
RPMs shooting up and brake hard to press
The symptoms you describe for your Oldsmobile Alero lead me to believe you may have a vacuum leak. It is very possible that one of your vacuum lines is starting to fail and this can duplicate a transmission slipping out...
Timing belt off track
A timing belt that appears to be slipping its way off its gear, or coming off track, is an indication that the timing belt is loose. When the timing belt starts to slide off its gears, it can rub against...
After jump-starting, warning lights came on
If you are having random electrical problems that don't seem to be related to the car not starting, it is likely that you have an alternator failure (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement) with your Mercedes E500. When an alternator fails, it can cause all...
Ford F150 shakes when pressing gas
If you are getting a check engine light coming on and flashing of the light when problem is happening. I would recommend having the engine computer scanned to see if you have misfire codes or codes to the intake manifold...

Related articles

2007 Nissan Versa vs. 2007 Saturn Ion: Which One Should I Buy?
Compact cars as a class are generally meant to be commuter vehicles: with excellent gas mileage, an entry-level price point, and decent safety ratings for those who are on the road the majority of their time. These cars also make...
Saturn Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Drivers Drivers who are shopping around for a used Saturn vehicle may want to check out cars under their certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on to...
Understanding the Saturn Oil Life Monitor and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Saturn Oil Life Monitor indicates when and what service your car needs.