What Does Maintaining and Servicing the Steering Wheel Lock Mean?
2 Answers
Maintaining and servicing the steering wheel lock means: There are various situations where this indicator may appear on the car's dashboard. It could be due to the installation of an automatic window-closing feature upon locking the car, which triggers this prompt. Alternatively, the steering wheel might be locked, or there could be an issue with the steering system. Below are the relevant explanations: 1. Unlocking: If the 'maintain and service steering wheel lock' message appears, it is best to visit a specialized 4S shop or repair shop to diagnose the cause. When the vehicle is turned off but the steering wheel is still being used, there is a high chance the steering wheel will lock. To unlock it, insert the car key into the ignition, turn the key while simultaneously unlocking the steering wheel. 2. Device: If the indicator appears due to the installation of an automatic window-closing feature upon locking, you can visit a specialized shop to remove this device. In this case, there is generally no safety concern, and the indicator will disappear after driving for a few minutes, not affecting normal driving.
I've been driving for over a decade, and the maintenance of the steering wheel lock is actually quite important. This device is used for anti-theft purposes, and proper maintenance ensures it can lock effectively when needed. I usually pay attention to three things: first, regularly check if the keyhole is blocked—dust or small paper fragments can jam the lock cylinder; second, spray lubricant into the lock cylinder every quarter—I use a specialized graphite lubricant spray, never use regular engine oil as it attracts dust; third, turn the steering wheel gently and avoid forcing it. Once during maintenance, I noticed the lock tongue was slightly rusty, so I lightly cleaned it with a wire brush, which worked well. Oh, and if the car is parked in a dusty area, try to cover it with a dust cover—these small habits can extend the lifespan of your steering wheel lock by several years.