2000 GLE Maxima. The steering wheel lock typically releases the wheel when the key is inserted in the ignition and turn the key to start. Recently I've had problems getting the steering wheel to unlock because the key won't turn in the ignition. Pressing on the brake, which sometimes works as a release, does nothing.

AAA came out and solved the problem by turning the steering wheel back and forth while attempting to turn the key in order to unlock the wheels. How can I prevent this from happening? This guy twisted the wheel hard-his strength far exceeds mine. Is this a glimpse of a problem I'm going to be stuck with?

 

My mom and mother in laws had same problems with their cars. In both cases when they parked on an incline the car would roll just enough to torque the steering wheel against the pin in the column. I had to go out for both of them and do exactly what AAA did for you. They started useing the ebrake when on inclines to keep this from happening. Hope this works for you. Incase anyone is wondering, their cars were a Ford Taurus and Chevy Impala.

 

Hit the gym you wimp.

 

 

I didn't mean to compare the OP to a couple of old ladies...Sorry

 

.. I don't think he made the comment because of your reply, but because of the OP's own comment. Hopefully he's a good sport and won't get offended by it.
He might have a problem with the key cylinder (not sure if that's the real name), not necesarily with lack of strength to jerk the steering wheel around.

 

No offense taken, but I am a grandmother & approaching 60. AND fyi, I work out 3 days a week and am in physical therapy for a fractured foot-called a lisfranc fracture-accompanied by 2 torn tendons & 2-5 metatarsals separated from foot & broken. Spent 8 months last year in a non-weight bearing cast & a wheel chair-so yes, you are right-I'm not in great shape but am working toward that as we speak.

 

You have to violently jerk the ever living **** out of it. At least that's what worked on mine. It had never done it before, but one day I couldn't even start it b/c of it. I got pissed and just went ape **** on it. It didn't do it again after that lol.

 

I'll let that excuse fly this time...

 

When you park the car on non-level ground and the wheels are turned, you and every car with a steering column lock will always have the problem. Putting an the parking brake before you put the car in park should prevent this.

 

Dennis, haven't had a problem since your suggestion of putting the E brake on before putting the transmission in park. Thanks!

 

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Do you use the steering lock as a safety measure? If so, you could always use "The Club"

 

park with the wheels straight maybe?