How To Disable A Steering Wheel Lock - Vehicle Freak

• Matija Pinko

Updated on July 28, 2022

The steering wheel lock doubles as a safety and security feature. Without the key, the potential thief will not be able to steer the vehicle, even if they jump-start it.

From a safety standpoint, a steering wheel lock keeps the direction of the wheels fixed when the car is parked.

When parking on an incline or descent, the steering wheel lock will prevent the wheels from straightening out, causing the vehicle to roll down in case of a parking brake failure.

The steering wheel lock can only be disabled with the ignition key. The alternative method is to take off or break the ignition switch, but if you do so, you won’t be able to start the vehicle.

What’s a Steering Wheel Lock?

A steering wheel lock is a device that is mounted on the steering column of a vehicle to prevent it from being driven by anyone other than the owner. It functions as an anti-theft device and an immobilizer.

The locking mechanism in most cases consists of a bar that can be locked into place with a key or combination lock, preventing the driver from turning their wheels. This prevents someone from stealing your car while you’re away, protecting your investment.

Depending on the model, there may also be some additional security features such as alarms or cloning protection systems built into them to protect against theft if the original keys are stolen or cloned.

Steering wheel locks have been around for decades in one form or another, initially being used to lock the steering mechanism directly.

Modern versions use a locking bar mounted on the steering column that can be engaged with a key or combination lock when not in use, and disengaged when driving.

Most models consist of steel bars that are usually between 12 and 16 inches long. They are easily installed, often requiring no special tools or knowledge to install, making them the perfect choice for anyone looking for extra security while they’re away from their vehicle.

Some vehicles have built-in alarm systems that engage automatically when the doors are locked, which also locks out all other forms of entry into the car except through authorized means such as a key or wallet transmitter.

These types of alarms don’t usually require any additional accessories and can be a great way to add an extra layer of security to your vehicle.

If you’re looking for even more protection, some models of steering wheel locks also come with cloning protection features. This type of technology is designed to prevent thieves from being able to clone your key and use it to steal your car.

Cloning protection works by encrypting the signal from your key fob so that it can’t be duplicated. This means that even if a thief does manage to get ahold of your keys, they won’t be able to use them to steal your car.

No matter what type of security system you have in place, adding a steering wheel lock is always a good idea. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and offer an extra layer of protection against theft.

If you’re looking for the best possible protection for your vehicle, a steering wheel lock is an excellent choice.

Why Would You Disable Steering Wheel Lock?

There are a few reasons you might want to disable your steering wheel lock.

The first is if you’ve lost your key and can’t get a replacement from the manufacturer. In this case, you’ll need to disable the steering wheel lock so that you can drive the car to a dealership or locksmith to have a new key made.

Another reason you might need to disable the steering wheel lock is if it’s malfunctioning and preventing you from driving the car. In this case, you’ll need to tow the car to a mechanic or dealership to have it repaired or replaced.

Finally, you might want to disable the steering wheel lock if you’re selling the car and the new owner doesn’t have the key. In this case, you can disable the steering wheel lock so that the new owner can drive the car away without having to tow it.

How to Disable Steering Wheel Lock With Key?

1. The best way to disable your steering wheel lock is with the key. If you don’t have the key, you can try one of the other methods listed above.
2. Insert your key into the ignition cylinder and turn it to the “On” position.
3. Locate the steering wheel lock release button on the back of the steering wheel.
4. Press and hold the steering wheel lock release button while turning the key to the “Off” position.
5. Remove the key from the ignition cylinder and your steering wheel should now be unlocked!
6. If your car has an electronic steering system, you may need to reset it by pressing and holding the reset button for 5 seconds before proceeding.

How to Disable Steering Wheel Lock Without Key?

Method 1: Unlocking through ignition replacement set

If your ignition lock cylinder is jammed and you don’t have the key, you can try to replace the entire ignition set. This will require some disassembly of your steering column, but it’s a relatively easy process.

Once the new ignition set is in place, you should be able to turn the key and disable the steering wheel lock.

Method 2: Unlocking with a slim jim

If you don’t want to replace the entire ignition set, you can try using a slim jim to unlock the steering wheel.

This method requires a bit of skill and patience, but it’s generally successful. Insert the slim jim between the bottom of the steering wheel and the top of the dashboard.

Then, gently slide the slim jim up until it catches on the locking mechanism. Once the slim jim is in place, you should be able to turn the key and disable the steering wheel lock.

Method 3: Breaking the steering wheel lock

If all else fails, you can try breaking the steering wheel lock. This will require a bit of force, so make sure you’re prepared before you attempt it. To break the steering wheel lock, strike it with a blunt object (such as a hammer) in the center of the locking mechanism.

With enough force, the locking mechanism should break and you’ll be able to turn the key and disable the steering wheel lock. Keep in mind that this will also break other components, not just the lock.

How to Replace Ignition Set?

If your ignition lock cylinder is jammed and you don’t have the key, you can try to replace the entire ignition set. This will require some disassembly of your steering column, but it’s a relatively easy process.

1. Once the new ignition set is in place, you should be able to turn the key and disable the steering wheel lock.
2. Disconnect the battery before beginning work on the ignition system.
3. Remove the screws that hold the lower half of the steering column cover in place.
4. Pull the lower half of the steering column cover down to access the ignition system.
5. Disconnect the wires from the back of the ignition switch.
6. Remove the retaining clip that holds the ignition switch in place, then remove the ignition switch.
7. Attach the new ignition switch to the steering column, ensuring that it is seated properly in the retaining clip.
8. Reconnect all of the wires to the back of the ignition switch and secure them with the retaining clip.
9. Reinstall the lower half of the steering column cover and tighten all of the screws to hold it in place.
10. Test your new ignition system by turning on your car and checking that you are able to disable or enable your steering wheel lock as needed.

How to Disable Steering Wheel Lock With Slim Jim?

If you don’t have the key, you can try using a slim jim to unlock the steering wheel. This method requires a bit of skill and patience, but it’s generally successful.

1. Insert the slim jim between the bottom of the steering wheel and the top of the dashboard.
2. Gently slide the slim jim up until it catches on the locking mechanism.
3. Once the slim jim is in place, you should be able to turn the key and disable the steering wheel lock.
4. If your car has an electronic steering system, you may need to reset it by pressing and holding the reset button for 5 seconds before proceeding.

Breaking the Steering Wheel Lock

If all else fails, you can try breaking the steering wheel lock. This will require a bit of force, so make sure you’re prepared before you attempt it.

To break the steering wheel lock, strike it with a blunt object (such as a hammer) in the center of the locking mechanism. With enough force, the locking mechanism should break and you’ll be able to turn the key and disable the steering wheel lock.

1. Locate the sweet spot on the steering wheel lock by gently tapping it with your hand until you find a spot that sounds hollow.
2. Strike the sweet spot with a blunt object (such as a hammer) until the locking mechanism breaks.
3. Turn the key to disable the steering wheel lock and start your car as usual.

FAQs

Can I Drive Without Steering Wheel Lock?

It’s not advisable to drive without a steering wheel lock, as it could make your car more susceptible to theft. If you must drive without a steering wheel lock, be sure to park in a well-lit area and keep an eye on your car at all times.

What’s Multilock?

Multilock is a type of steering wheel lock that is designed to be more difficult to break than a traditional steering wheel lock. Multilock typically has a thicker bar and stronger construction, making it more resistant to brute force attacks.

How to Remove a Stuck Steering Wheel Lock?

If your steering wheel lock is stuck, you can try using WD-40 or another lubricant to loosen it up. Simply spray the lubricant onto the keyhole and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to turn the key again. You may need to repeat this process several times before the lock will come loose.

Another method you can try is heating up the keyhole with a lighter or another heat source. This will expand the metal and make it easier to turn the key. Be careful not to heat the metal too much, as this could damage the lock.

If you’re still having trouble, you can try using a pair of pliers or a wrench to turn the key. This may damage the key, but it will likely get the job done.

How to Prolong Steering Wheel Lock Life?

There are a few things you can do to prolong the life of your steering wheel lock. First, make sure you’re using the correct key and that the keyway is clean and free of debris.

Second, avoid exposing the lock to extreme temperatures, as this can cause it to warp or break. Finally, lubricate the keyhole with WD-40 or another lubricant on a regular basis to keep it working smoothly.

Conclusion

There are a few different ways that you can disable a steering wheel lock, depending on what you have available to you. If you have the key, simply turn it in the ignition to disable the lock.

If you don’t have the key, you can try using a slim jim to unlock the steering wheel or breaking the steering wheel lock. You can also replace the whole ignition set.

Whichever method you choose, make sure you’re prepared before attempting it so that you don’t damage your car.

Here are some more articles for you to check out:

Why Does the Steering Wheel Lock Up? (Causes & Solutions)

Steering Wheel Won’t Lock And Car Won’t Start

How To Unlock Steering Wheel Without Key