Steering Lock

[Maydup]

I've bought a new(ish) car and the steering lock is almost impossible to use. Extremely heavy to turn. If i do manage to get it on I have a hell of a job to get it off again. Is there a knack to using modern steering locks?

[tonyav]

What type of steering lock ?.

[Maydup]

Toyota yaris Tony.

[Maydup]

Just the regular steering lock, not a security lock by the way.

[tonyav]

Does it not have power steering, Maydup ?.

[Buenchico]

Well you've got me confused!

A steering lock should automatically engage if anyone tries to turn the steering wheel without inserting, and turning, the key. You shouldn't need to do anything to set it.

If you're turning the wheel to engage the lock after removing the key you're:
(a) wasting your time (because it's totally unnecessary) ; and
(b) as you've found, making it much harder to get going again!

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/car-tips/how-the-steering-lock-on-your-car-works/article4360030/

[tonyav]

How new is it, Maydup, is it still under the manufactures warranty ?.

[Maydup]

Ooh OK, so there is no need to engage the steering lock when i leave the car?

It is automatically locked.....

As stated in the article, if i struggle to get the steering lock on i will only make it harder to unlock. Exactly my experience.

I haven't driven a new(ish) car before.

Thanks chris

[tonyav]

LOL, never mind Maydup, all part of the learning process.

[Maydup]

Thanks Tony, only ever had old bangers!

[tonyav]

I've had plenty of those in the past as well, Maydup. These new fangled cars are very different now.