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Chrysler Repair/PT Cruiser steering wheel lock

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Expert: - 9/5/2011


Question
My son has a 2004 base model / no-turbo PT Cruiser. The steering wheel lock does not lock the steering wheel when the key is turned off. The key turns and the engine starts and runs fine. The shift lever for the Automatic transmission works fine. We think the locking device got broke when the tie rods were replaced. Is there any thing to worry about other than not being able to tow the car or lock the wheels when parking on a hill?

Answer
Hi Tim,
It is also an anti-theft feature. The lock up feature kicks in however when the wheel is turned up to as much as 180 degrees, so it may still work but not be close to the center position of the wheel. So check for that possibility. If that is the case it may be possible to center the 'action' by re-adjusting the position of the tie rods.
Roland

Chrysler Repair

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Roland Finston

Expertise

I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2008 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty.

I take questions one at a time between 8am and 10pm CT and attempt to answer within 20 minutes. "Maxed Out" means I am answering another question of otherwise busy, so try again later.

There are answers on file to more than sixteen thousand Chrysler questions at your finger tips: put a few key words in the "find" box (above) or click on "view past answers" for a chronological list of my q and a's. Don't use "Add to this answer" if you still have a question...ask it. As to trucks and jeeps I only have manuals for the '04-'06 model years.

Experience

Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

Organizations
Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

Education/Credentials
Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

Awards and Honors
"Top expert of 2010" and "2011" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts.

Quickest "average response time" at Allexperts (currently no. 1).

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