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Why Does My Steering Wheel Lock While Driving?
I took my car into the shop because my steering wheel locked up while I was on my way to work. What makes a steering wheel lock up while you’re driving?
Jason Tushinski · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
A great question, and a scary situation. While steering wheel lock-up is rare on newer cars, it can happen. The most common reasons for a steering wheel to lock while driving are a problem with the power steering system, a steering rack/column or suspension issue, a car ignition lock problem, or sharp turns.
Here’s a more in-depth explanation:
- Problem with power steering system: Your power steering pump can get stuck or jammed with debris, or your vehicle may leak power steering fluid, which can cause the wheel to seize up. Either of these issues can make steering extremely difficult.
- Steering rack/column or suspension issue: Very rarely, a failure in your vehicle’s suspension, or in its steering rack or column, will cause your steering wheel to lock up.
- Car ignition lockup: A vehicle’s ignition system can sometimes suffer a fatigue failure, which means your car key won’t turn the ignition on or off. If your vehicle is already in motion, this can cause your steering wheel to lock.
- Sharp turns: Yup, if you like to pretend you’re driving on Formula One, all those sharp turns can take a toll on your vehicle’s steering system, and your wheel can lock up as a consequence.
Steering wheel lockup is a rare occurrence, but it could put you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road in real danger. If you notice any issues with your steering wheel, take your car to a trusted and qualified
mechanic
in order to have the problem diagnosed and fixed.Another way to ensure you’re protected on the road? Insure your car with a robust
car insurance
policy by shopping for the lowest rate on the best coverage through the Jerry
app. Once you make your pick, Jerry signs you up for your new policy and helps you cancel your old one!View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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