Steering wheel locked, ignition will not turn
 

I came home today and shut off the engine as usual. When I went to start the car again, the ignition switch wouldn't turn. The steering wheel is locked. I have tried everything, even crying, if you can believe that. Hey, I am a woman, what do you expect? HA!

Could someone please help me? I tried calling my Ex, he knows this car better than anyone, but he won't call me back. This is my only mode of transportation, so I need a quick answer.

Thanks!:confused:

I am not an expert, but I try to help any Lady in distress.
Make sure your transmission is in Park.
Insert key, and wriggle it from side to side to attempt turning the ignition.
Put your left hand on the steering wheel, turning the wheel from side to side while juggling the key.

Ginger97

Also tell us the model/year/miles and transmission if you can.

Hey, we'll help you!

Haasman

Steering Wheel locked
 

1978 Mercedes 300SD, 250,000 or better, Automatic

Hey, where is the crying "Message Icon"? :(

ah...if only I could also get the royal treatment :rolleyes:

Ginger97

OK thanks for the reply, if you would like, email me on my email link below and I will send you emails off line or my tel # so we can try and resolve this. If that would help? Your choice.

Haasman

Is the car parked on a hill? Are the front wheels turned sharply in either direction? If so, try turning the steering wheel further in the direction that the wheels are turned, THEN try to turn the key.

Do you have another key? Try it.

sometimes you need to be a little rough with steering wheel to get it to unlock. had a Datsun 240Z go into lock while driving "not fun".......
William Rogers........

If everything else fails...
 

get a NEW boyfriend!;) :D :p

try to turn the wheel and wiggle the key at the same time.

i put the car in neutral and apply the parking brake before the car is shut off. it puts the load on the brakes instead of the drivetrain.

Usually holding the steering wheel hard right while turning the key will release the lock. If this doesn't work try hard left.

Steering wheel
 

The car is not on a hill, the wheels are staight, with the steering wheel locked it will only move so far to the right or left, I have wiggled all 3 keys that I have, all of this has not resolved my dilemma.

Thanks for all your help guys. Even though all attempts have failed, I will remain calm. Keep those suggestions coming.

Ginger

P.S. Getting a new boyfriend, especially before I go back to work on Monday, is not an option. Been there, done that, and own 3 T-shirts. :)

Sorry for this .... but ..... is the transmission selector in Park?

Haasman

you just have to hulk it sometimes.

try screaming instead of crying.

see if someone will jerk on the steering wheel with two hands while someone else moves the key.

if you have access to "the club" that might give you some leverage.

you can always tell the jury that you where aiming for his suv:)

Steering wheel
 

The transmission is in "Park". We are still trying, I am just before screaming!!!!

Does anyone have a car they want to sell cheap? Trade ya! HA! HA!:mad: