What to Do When a Volkswagen Steering Wheel Locks Up?
3 Answers
The solution to a locked steering wheel in a Volkswagen is: press the brake pedal, hold the steering wheel with your left hand and gently shake it, while simultaneously turning the key with your right hand to unlock it. Taking the 2020 Volkswagen Magotan as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4865mm, width 1832mm, height 1471mm, wheelbase 2871mm, fuel tank capacity 66 liters, and trunk capacity 533 liters. The 2020 Volkswagen Magotan is equipped with a 1.4T turbocharged engine, with a maximum power of 110kW and a maximum torque of 250Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. It features a front suspension type of MacPherson independent suspension and a rear suspension type of multi-link independent suspension.
When I first got my driver's license, I also encountered the steering wheel locking up, and it scared me to death! Actually, this is an anti-theft feature built into Volkswagen cars. After you turn off the engine and remove the key, the steering wheel automatically locks to prevent unauthorized driving. The solution is super simple: insert the car key, gently turn the key while slightly wiggling the steering wheel left and right, and you'll hear a click as the lock releases. Remember not to force the steering wheel with brute strength, as it can damage the steering column. If the key absolutely won't turn, it might be because the steering wheel wasn't straightened when you parked last time—just apply a bit more force to turn the steering wheel to release it. This design is quite useful; my 8-year-old Golf requires this operation every time before ignition.
The steering wheel lock is actually an anti-theft feature of Volkswagen vehicles, essentially a mechanical lock. I've noticed this function can be quite sensitive – sometimes just a slight turn of the steering wheel can trigger it. Don't panic when this happens: keep your right foot firmly on the brake, and when pushing the key to the START position with your left hand, remember to apply a bit of force to the right while gently rocking the steering wheel left and right with your right hand to find the unlocking point. In cold winters, you might need to try two or three times. Once at -15°C, my Passat was frozen, and I had to wait half a minute after turning the key to let the lubricant thaw before succeeding. Also, a reminder: if even the ignition switch won't turn, check if the steering wheel lock's retaining spring is deformed.
