Power Steering Confusion?!

[fatnlowtahoe504]

i dont see why it locks even though the key in is the ignition, it shouldnt, maybe you just have pull harder to get it out of the lock..

 

[ecordell]

you shouldn't be able to turn the key forward if it is locked.....usually you have to pull the wheel in the direction it was turning when it locked, then turn the key forward to unlock the steering, then you are on your own to strong arm it while the vehicle is off. If it is started then it should turn easily...

 

[thehoe92]

I see some of you are understanding it only like half way..

my car died while I was going 40mph
the steering wheel locked
even while rolling it was very difficult to pull it over into the side street
it only "unlocks" when the engine is running other than that it stays locked up

my question is why, if in my case your car dies and you NEED to steer it does it lock up?
I'll test it again tonight and see if maybe I do just have to pull harder but it didn't feel right

 

[pittmanb8]

If your car runs out of gas and dies, just leave the key in the ON position (not ACC) and the steering shouldn't lock. It will be hard to turn but shouldn't lock if you leave the key in the ON position. Try it in your driveway and see what happens- put the key in and turn it to ON without cranking. Wheel should turn and not lock.

 

[thehoe92]

okay I just went out and tried it and maybe I am just weak and its REALLY hard to turn 24's on a flat surface.

I feel like I'm going to turn the wheel to far and break something though