What Causes the Steering Wheel to Lock While Driving?
3 Answers
The reasons for the steering wheel locking while driving are as follows: 1. Steering gear failure. Abnormal failure of the steering gear is likely caused by an improperly designed drainage outlet at the bottom of the vehicle from the windshield water guide tube, combined with poor sealing of the power steering mechanism. This can lead to water ingress into the sensor wiring harness or internal components, resulting in power steering failure and "steering wheel lock-up." 2. Anti-theft function activation. Generally, when the car is turned off, rotating the steering wheel a certain angle in one direction will cause a "click" sound, after which the steering wheel can no longer be turned, indicating it is locked. The steering wheel locking could be triggered by the anti-theft system.
Last time I drove my old Jetta on a long trip, I suddenly encountered a situation where the steering wheel wouldn't turn, which gave me a real scare. This kind of problem is mostly caused by the power steering system failing, especially in older cars that have been running for seven or eight years. It could be due to a hydraulic power steering pump leaking or the belt breaking, or the electric power steering motor burning out. If the universal joint connecting the steering gear under the steering wheel gets stuck, it can also directly lock the steering wheel. Another possibility is a sudden front tire blowout or a broken axle, causing the entire steering system to fail. If this happens at speeds over 60 km/h, remember not to slam on the brakes. Hold the steering wheel firmly, turn on the hazard lights, and coast slowly to the emergency lane using inertia before calling for help.
Speaking of steering wheel lock-up, a friend of mine encountered electronic power steering failure just two years after buying a new car. Nowadays, many vehicles use electronically controlled systems for steering, and a faulty current sensor can cause the steering module to crash. In hydraulic systems, common issues include leaking hoses or degraded, clumpy power steering fluid. If the steering wheel becomes unusually stiff and makes creaking noises, it's likely due to a deformed steering rack or seized bearings. It's important to remind everyone not to ignore increasingly heavy steering and to promptly check critical components like tie rod ends and steering knuckles at a repair shop. Otherwise, you might face sudden lock-up while driving, which could be dangerous.
