How to Unlock the Steering Column on a 1994 HONDA Civic
The 1994 Honda Civic is a solid-performing commuter car. Built as a sport compact, the Civic has enough punch to zip from stoplight to stoplight, but wont eat up gallons of gas on an afternoon of errands in the city. The Civic was built to be an all-around easy driver, and the 1994 Honda Civic fits that bill perfectly. There are some particular quirks about the 1994 Honda Civic that are both a blessing and a curse. One such quirk is the fact that sometimes the steering column can become impossibly locked into position. This feature is meant as an anti-theft device; if you try to turn the steering wheel without the key in the ignition, the steering wheel will lock in its current position until you use the key to unlock it. If you are having trouble unlocking the steering column on your 1994 Honda Civic, follow these simple steps to get back on the road again.
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Instructions
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Begin by inserting the key into the ignition of the car and turning it to the "On" position. If you are unable to turn the key, first wiggle the key back and forth to see if you can loosen up the ignition internals. Next, try turning the steering wheel side to side to see if that will allow you to turn the key.
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2
Try pulling the key out and reinserting the key. Next, put the car in gear (into first if it's an automatic, and reverse if it's a standard) and try turning the steering wheel side to side while turning the key. The transmission movement coupled with movement in the steering column may work to unlock the column. If not, move to Step 3.
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3
Use the screwdriver to remove the plastic shroud surrounding the steering column. Use the ratchet set to remove the ignition stem; then a flat blade screwdriver may be inserted into the steering column and the car should start. Once the car starts, put the vehicle in gear and the steering wheel will unlock.
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Tips & Warnings
When trying Step 2, it could be helpful to have a friend push on the back of the car and "rock" the car back and forth. This could cause linkage movement and ultimately unlock the steering column.
Do not stick a screwdriver into the ignition without first removing the stem, as this could seriously damage the ignition system.
