how to unlock steering wheel without key

How To Unlock Steering Wheel Without Key

by

Jeffrey
August 10, 2022
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It’s frustrating when the steering wheel gets locked and you can’t turn the ignition.

You’ll eventually search for a solution on how to unlock steering wheel without key.

In this article, we will learn more about locked steering wheels and how to deal with them.

How To Unlock Steering Wheel With A Key

The process of unlocking your steering wheel is pretty simple.

All you need to do is:

First, put the key in the ignition.

Next, turn the key to the “on” position.

Then, press and hold the unlock button on the door.

Turn the key to the “off” position.

Finally, remove the key from the ignition

Doing these steps will usually unlock it.

If it doesn’t work, don’t worry, there are other options we’ll go over below.

how to unlock steering wheel without key

Ways On How To Unlock Steering Wheel Without Key

If you don’t have a key or can’t use the one you have for some reason, there are still a couple of ways you can unlock it.

Clean Steering Wheel And Column Thoroughly

If your steering wheel is locked, you can try cleaning the steering wheel and column.

To do this:

First, turn the key to the “on” position.

Next, use a clean cloth to wipe down the steering wheel and column.

Make sure to get all the dirt and grime off.

Finally, turn the key to the “off” position and remove it from the ignition

After you’ve done this, try turning the key again.

If it still doesn’t work, don’t worry, there are other options.

Use A Butter Knife Or Something Similar

Another way you can unlock your steering wheel is by using a butter knife or something similar.

To do this:

First, find a butter knife or something similar.

Next, insert the butter knife into the keyhole.

Finally, turn the butter knife until it unlocks

This method may take a few tries, but it should eventually work.

Use A Screwdriver

If you don’t have a butter knife or can’t find one, another option is to use a screwdriver.

To do this:

First, find a small flathead screwdriver.

Next, insert the screwdriver into the keyhole.

Finally, turn the screwdriver until it unlocks

Like with the butter knife method, this may take a few tries, but it should eventually work.

Use A Pair Of Pliers

Another way is to use a pair of pliers.

Again, insert the tips of the pliers into the keyhole and turn.

This should also do the trick.

Use A WD40

If your steering wheel is locked and you can’t turn it, then you may need to use WD40.

This can happen if it is frozen or if the lock is jammed.

To use WD40, first, make sure that the can is well shaken.

Then, spray WD40 onto the keyhole and insert the key.

Once the key is inserted, try moving it.

If the steering wheel still doesn’t turn, then you may need to spray more WD40 and wait a few minutes before trying again.

If it still won’t turn after using WD40, then you may need to call a tow truck or take your car to a mechanic.

Hammer

If you don’t have anything else, you can try using a hammer.

Just be careful not to damage it.

Hit the keyhole with the handle of the hammer.

This may be enough to jar the lock open.

If that doesn’t work, then you can try hitting the steering wheel itself with the hammer.

Be careful not to hit too hard or you may damage it.

Once you’ve got the steering wheel unlocked, you can proceed to start your car and drive away.

Use A Hanger

If you’re having trouble with either of these methods, you can try using a hanger.

Straighten out a wire hanger and insert it into the keyhole.

Once it’s all the way in, wiggle it around until you feel the mechanism inside unlock.

Then, just pull it out and your steering wheel should be free.

Hopefully one of these methods worked for you and you were able to unlock your steering wheel and also without having to use the key.

If not, there are a few other options we didn’t cover, but feel free to experiment and see if they work for you.

Worst case scenario, you’ll have to call a tow truck or mechanic to come to take a look.

Replacing IGNITION

If your key is lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll need to replace the ignition to unlock your steering wheel.

This is a more complicated process and will likely require the help of a professional.

Most significantly, you must consult your owner’s handbook again.

  1. To begin, remove its column panels using a Phillips screwdriver. Next, remove the screws to secure its underside.
  2. Release the lock. Insert your finger between the lock system and the cover and press down on both simultaneously to discover the cylinder lock. Turn it clockwise until it moves back while you’re doing that. This procedure must be repeated until it is free.
  3. Remove the old key from your vehicle and replace it with a new one. Install the replacement ignition lock system. If that doesn’t work, consider using a secondary key; if the car is equipped with one.
  4. Remove the panel screws, then carefully raise and lower each section until the damaged area of plastic is completely visible. Then, one at a time set it back into position.

Doing these steps should unlock it.

If it doesn’t work, then you may need to call a tow truck or take your car to a mechanic.

Use A Spare Key

If you have a spare key, you can use that to unlock it. Just insert the key and turn it to the “on” position.

Then, press and hold the unlock button on the door.

After that, turn the key to the “off” position and remove it from the ignition.

Doing these steps should unlock it.

Unlock Using Canned Air

Another way to check the power steering pump is to drop a machine part into each chamber.

This method, however, has some drawbacks that must be considered before using it.

Verify the level of liquid in the power steering pump before turning it on.

First, spray some cleaner solution into the hole, and then turn on canned air.

This will loosen and remove dirt from the inside of it so that you can get rid of all refuse as soon as possible!

Once clean enough for entry with key supremacy (or another method), insert them both together – inserting just one may cause damage due to leverage issues-and try turning clockwise until unlocked or opened automatically depending upon the make/model vehicle.

The teeth on the key could be jagged.

This might make for an impossible connection, therefore if you receive another one ( newer models don’t require them )

Keyless Car With A Locked Steering Wheel

If you have a keyless car, there are a few different ways you can unlock it.

1. Use The Key Fob

The first way is by using a key fob.

Most keyless cars come with a key fob that can be used to unlock the doors and start the car.

Use the key fob to unlock it, just press and hold the unlock button.

2. Use The Keypad

If your car has a keypad, then you can enter your code and press the “unlock” button.

This should also unlock it.

3. Use The App

If your car has an app, you can use that to unlock it.

Just open the app and enter your code.

Once you’re logged in, you should be able to press the “unlock” button and unlock it.

4. Call customer service

If none of these methods work, you can always call customer service.

They may be able to help you unlock it over the phone.

5. Take it to a dealer or locksmith

If all else fails, you can always take it to a dealer or locksmith.

They will be able to help you unlock it and get you back on the road.

Why Do Steering Wheels Become Stuck?

The locking of the steering wheel is a safety feature in vehicles.

It is designed to prevent the driver from being able to turn the wheel when the vehicle is not in motion or turned off.

This can help prevent accidents, and it can also help to deter thieves from stealing the car.

Reasons Why Steering Wheels Get LOCKED

One of the major reasons for it being locked is safety.

Don’t get alarmed if you’ve done something wrong; they may simply need to be unlocked!

When you turn off your car and remove the key, it will lock automatically so that no one can drive away.

This is a safety measure executed by automakers to ensure nobody screws up their vehicle while they’re still inside!

After you’ve turned off the ignition and removed your key, it is locked as a security measure against thieves.

It is an important part of your car, as it helps you keep control and maintain steering.

With this feature locked away from would-be thieves by designating them too difficult for breaking through with tools or physical strength.

The rate at which people are stealing vehicles in America has been dropping significantly over recent years!

If your automobile appears to be in good operating order on the outside, there are two primary reasons why it is not working.

It may have locked up because of something other than the reasons listed above.

It could be that you’re running low on battery power, or maybe there was too much pressure when turning just moments ago and now it won’t unlock again until all these problems are fixed!

Steering Wheel Locking Device

A steering wheel lock is a device that is used to lock the steering wheel of a vehicle in place.

This can be an effective way to deter thieves from attempting to steal your car, as it makes it much more difficult for them to steer the car away.

There are a variety of different steering wheel locks on the market, so it is important to choose one that is right for your vehicle.

You should also be sure to read the instructions carefully before using the device, as improper use could damage your steering wheel.

Mechanical Lock

One type of steering wheel lock is a mechanical device that fits over the top of it.

This device will usually have a key that must be inserted into the hole to release it.

The advantage of this type of lock is that it is very difficult for a thief to remove, and it can also be used as a security device.

The disadvantage of this type of lock is that it can be difficult to remove if the key is lost or stolen.

Wireless Steering Wheel Lock Device

The third type of steering wheel lock is a wireless device that is installed on the outside of it.

This device emits a signal that prevents it from turning.

The advantage of this type of lock is that it is very difficult for a thief to remove, and it can also be used as a burglar device.

The disadvantage of this type of lock is that it can be interrupted by other electronic devices, and it can also be difficult to remove if the batteries are dead.

Gps Tracking Device

The fourth type of steering wheel lock is a GPS tracking device.

This device uses the Global Positioning System to track the location of the vehicle.

The advantage of this type of lock is that it can be used as a security device, and it can also help to locate a stolen vehicle.

The disadvantage of this type of lock is that it can be difficult to remove, and it can also be interrupted by other electronic devices.

Transponder Key

The fifth type of steering wheel lock is a transponder key.

This device uses a signal from the ignition key to disable the engine.

The advantage of this type of lock is that it is very difficult for a thief to remove, and it can also be used as an advanced device for security.

The disadvantage of this type of lock is that it can be difficult to remove if the signal from the ignition key is interrupted.

Wireless Kill Switch

The most recent form of steering wheel lock is a wireless kill switch.

This gadget cuts the power with a signal from the ignition key.

The benefit of this sort of lock is that it’s difficult to remove and can also be used to secure your car.

The disadvantage of this type of lock is that if the signal from the ignition key is lost, it might be hard to remove.

Starter Disable

A wireless starter disable is the seventh style of the steering wheel lock.

This gadget uses a signal from the ignition key to turn off the engine.

The advantage of this sort of lock is that it’s extremely hard to remove, and it may also be used to secure your car.

The disadvantage of this kind of lock is that if the transmission signal from the ignition key is disrupted, removing it might be challenging.

Wireless Ignition Kill Switch

The eighth type of steering wheel lock is a wireless ignition kill switch.

This device uses a signal from the ignition key to disable the engine.

The advantage of this type of lock is that it is very difficult for a thief to remove, and it can also be used as a burglar device.

The disadvantage of this type of lock is that it can be difficult to remove if the signal from the ignition key is interrupted.

These are just some of the different types of steering wheel lock devices that are available on the market today.

There are many more that are not listed here.

If you are looking for a particular type of steering wheel lock, you should consult with a qualified locksmith to find the best one for your needs.

Conclusion

There are a few different ways you can unlock the steering wheel and also without the key.

If you don’t have a key or can’t use the one you have, try cleaning the steering wheel and column, using a butter knife or screwdriver, or finding something else that can fit into the keyhole.

Steering wheels can be locked to keep your car from being stolen and to prevent it from rolling over if you park it on an inclined surface.

We’ve got you covered on how to do it in the simplest way possible.

With a little patience, you should be able to unlock the steering wheel and have no more problems.

Jeffrey

Jeffrey Bryce is an experienced motorcycle rider with years of experience caring for motorcycles. His natural fondness for motorcycles have made him come up with LetsGoForARide.com, which is dedicated to answering and teaching you how to care for your bike with the care it requires. LetsGoForARide is the one of his important lifework in reaching out to communities of motorcycle enthusiasts on how to take care of their bike and choosing the correct spare part.