What Causes the Steering Wheel to Be Stiff After Starting the Car?

[OChase]

It is most likely a steering gear failure, and it is recommended to have it checked at a 4S shop. Below is the relevant content: 1. Introduction to the Car Steering Gear: The car steering gear, also known as the steering mechanism or steering box, is the most important component in the car's steering system. Its function is to amplify the force transmitted from the steering wheel to the steering linkage and to change the direction of force transmission. 2. Methods to Determine if the Car Steering Gear Is Faulty: Unstable driving direction, increased steering wheel play, difficulty in steering wheel return, understeer or oversteer, steering wheel vibration, directional wobbling, heavy steering, and unusual noises from the car steering gear, etc. 3. Methods to Maintain the Car Steering Gear: Avoid turning the steering wheel while the car is stationary; turn the steering wheel only after the car is moving. After parking, return the steering wheel to the central position to avoid bearing load.

[KeeganDella]

I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered the steering wheel locking up a few times. The most common situation is when the automatic steering wheel lock engages - it activates as an anti-theft feature when you turn the wheel after shutting off the engine. Don't force it in this case; gently turn the wheel with your left hand while turning the key with your right hand until you hear a click to unlock it. Another cause could be power steering system issues. For electric power steering, if the battery is low or a fuse is blown, the motor won't work making the steering wheel extremely heavy. For hydraulic systems, you need to check the power steering fluid - leaks or degraded fluid will cause the power steering pump to fail. Last week my neighbor's car had a broken belt, causing the power steering pump to stop working, making the wheel completely immovable. These situations all require prompt attention, especially in winter when fluids thicken and problems are more likely. It's best to have a repair shop scan for trouble codes with diagnostic equipment.

[LaMarley]

Don't panic if the steering wheel suddenly becomes stiff—focus on checking three key areas. The most commonly overlooked issue is stuck tires, especially after parking overnight when brake discs and pads may stick together. Simply shifting gears and moving the car slightly forward or backward can resolve this. Another frequent occurrence is a locked steering column, which requires gently turning the key while lightly wiggling the steering wheel to unlock it. For mechanical issues, check the power steering system: older cars often suffer from low hydraulic fluid levels—just open the hood and inspect the reservoir's fluid level. Newer vehicles mostly use electric power steering, so check the battery voltage and controller. As a mechanic, I've also encountered cases where the steering gear was internally jammed, which is more complex. If you smell burning, turn off the engine immediately—it could indicate a burnt motor. For safety, always consult a professional technician and avoid dismantling the steering system yourself.

[ChaseDella]

My car had this issue during summer—the steering wheel felt welded in place after starting. The 4S technician explained that the electric power steering system is highly sensitive to voltage. When the battery ages, voltage fluctuations during startup trigger the control module’s automatic power-cut protection. Another time, it was a sensor issue—dust buildup on the steering angle sensor caused signal errors. Many modern cars with automated parking features have more electronic components, which means more potential failure points. Remember to maintain the steering system regularly: check the power steering fluid every 20,000 km, and prioritize battery inspections for vehicles over five years old. For emergencies, try restarting the engine, but never force the steering wheel—it could damage the gears.