steering wheel locked cant turn key

[stook]

my friends 2000 saturn sl2 steering wheel is locked and you cant turn the key. usually in most vehicles you can turn the wheel to the left or right really hard and the key will turn... but not happening here any tips or tricks for this?

[jengler]

If the steering wheel is turned too far left or right it will lock. Try to keep the wheels straight after you park. Just a thought, Used to happen to me. If it keeps happening after that, you prob. need a ignition cylinder or something.

[stook]

i know that if u turn it to far to the left or right without the key it will lock.... trying to figure out how to get the key to turn because it is already locked..... not prevent it.

i turn the wheel to the left to relieve tension and the key still doesnt turn.

[luklyz]

Hi
I had problem like you when i got my saturn.
You probably take out key before you turned all way back. Put the key back to the ignition and just try turn back
I hope this will help you

[stook]

bump..... anyone

[MikeH]

Sometimes I have to turn my key over to get it to work.
I'm not sure if it works the same for newer Saturns.

[madpogue]

Originally Posted by MikeH

Sometimes I have to turn my key over to get it to work.
I'm not sure if it works the same for newer Saturns.

Key is worn on one side. This might even apply to the OP; a NEW key (NOT a copy, a new key cut based on the keycode, which is in turn based on the VIN), _MIGHT_ work.

[jengler]

Originally Posted by stook

i know that if u turn it to far to the left or right without the key it will lock.... trying to figure out how to get the key to turn because it is already locked..... not prevent it.

i turn the wheel to the left to relieve tension and the key still doesnt turn.

Sorry, guess i misread the the post. Just trying to help.

[Moist]

Put the key in the ignition and slowly turn the wheel (I realize it won't be more than 1/2 inch or so) and the key at the same time. There is most likely too much preasure on the ignition switch from as others have already stated...turning the wheel too far. Also the tumblers in the switch itself may be gummed-up. Try (with the little red tube attached only) to spray a very small amount of WD40, Liquid Wrench, or PB Blaster into the inside of the switch through the key slot. Work the key in and out a few times and try turning it again. I can't effisize "small amount" strongly enough. Just a couple of drops should be enough. Too much and you can short out the electrical contacts in the switch. This would be very bad! Or you can spray the key itself and work it in and out. That works also. And finally... if you have an automatic...is it in park?

[mewant2b]

i agreed with Madpogue. i bought a used 01 sl2 and i could not remove my key from the cylinder. i had to play with it sometimes it worked sometime it did not. A copy from Saturn dealer, provided a proof of insurance and vin #. it works great now

[flythatway]

While you're trying to get the steering wheel unlocked has anyone ever walked up and said "Get the hell out of my car!"?