What to Do When the Steering Wheel is Locked and the Key Won't Turn?

[LaEverett]

The solution for when the steering wheel is locked and the key won't turn: Insert the car key while simultaneously turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction. Ensure this movement is synchronized with key insertion, and continue turning the key until the steering wheel can move. For vehicles with push-button start, first turn the steering wheel left and right, then press the brake while activating the push-button start. Steering wheel lock is a simple anti-theft feature designed for vehicle security. After the engine is turned off, if the steering wheel is turned left/right or if the wheels aren't straight when parked, external force may cause the steering wheel to rotate, triggering the auto-lock function. When the locking pin engages with the steering column, the steering wheel becomes immovable - even inserting and forcefully turning the key won't work. This occurs when the vehicle's anti-theft system perceives theft risk, activating the steering lock as a security measure.