What to Do When the Steering Column Lock Malfunction Causes Failure to Start the Engine?
2 Answers
Solutions for steering column lock malfunction causing failure to start the engine: Insert the key and turn the ignition switch. If the car steering wheel is locked and the key cannot be turned, slowly rotate the steering wheel up and down while turning the key, and simultaneously press the brake pedal. For some vehicles, after inserting the steering wheel key, it is necessary to rotate the key to the steering wheel unlock position before rotating the steering wheel to unlock it. The steering column lock is a steering column locking device, mainly composed of a lock rod, camshaft, lock stopper, unlock lever, and unlock button. When the driver removes the key from the key cylinder, the steering column is locked by the lock rod, so even if a thief starts the engine without a key, the car still cannot be steered or driven.
It's really frustrating when your car suddenly won't start when you're about to go out. I once encountered a situation where the steering wheel was locked and the key wouldn't turn, which made me panic on the spot. This is mostly caused by a faulty electronic steering column lock. The key is to stay calm and handle it properly: try gently rocking the steering wheel left and right while turning the key, or lock the car and wait a few minutes before trying again. If that doesn't work, you can disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for 15 seconds and then reconnect it to reset the system. If the dashboard shows a 'Steering Column Lock Failure' warning light, avoid repeatedly forcing the key to turn, as this can easily damage the lock cylinder. In the end, I took it to a repair shop where they used a computer diagnostic tool and found that the internal motor of the lock was short-circuited. It cost me over 600 yuan to replace a new module to fix the issue. Older cars are more prone to this problem, especially models with push-button start.
