How to Unlock a Steering Wheel

How Do You Unlock a Steering Wheel?

Have you ever returned to your car from running errands around San Diego and found your steering wheel to be locked? While this may seem like a stressful event, don’t worry because the service experts at Kearny Mesa Kia are here to help answer the question, “how do you unlock a steering wheel?” Read this guide and follow the instructions to get back on El Cajon roads as soon as possible!

How to Unlock a Steering Wheel: Five Simple Steps

If you’re wondering how to unlock a steering wheel, we’ve provided five different ways to accomplish this task. Check them out, below:

• Try to turn both the key and the steering wheel at the same time: Even if you’ve already tried this method, rocking the wheel back and forth can gradually loosen the ignition. However, you’ll want to be gentle. The last thing you want to do is break your key off in the ignition.

• Try your spare key: As you drive throughout La Mesa, your key’s teeth can get worn over time. Trying a different key may just do the trick.

• Clean out the insides of the ignition: When trying to unlock your steering wheel, cleaning out the insides of your ignition might work. You can do this by sliding the key in and out of the ignition several times. If that doesn’t work, you can spray canned air into the ignition.

• Spray some lubricant into the ignition: WD-40 is probably the most popular spray lubricant, and it can work great. You could also try electronics spray cleaner.

• Install a new ignition cylinder: This should be a last resort seeing as it’s the most difficult way to unlock a steering wheel. We highly recommend bringing your vehicle to our service center located in the Chula Vista-area to have our experts take care of it.

If none of these methods work, schedule a service appointment at Kearny Mesa Kia where our experts can help remedy the issue.

How to Lock Your Steering Wheel

Now that you know how to unlock your steering wheel, how do you go about locking your steering wheel? All you have to do is turn the wheel all the way to either side before shutting off the car.

Kearny Mesa Kia: Your Service Experts

If you found this article helpful, check out more of our service tips and tricks where we answer frequently asked questions such as “how often do I change my cabin air filter?” and “what does an alternator do?” Also, be sure to browse our service specials to keep your car maintenance budget-friendly. If you have any additional questions, just give us a call at 844-824-9675 today!