Help--Stuck Steering Column

[fcampbellcraven]

I just got a used 1996 Camry LE and can't start the car now. I can't turn the key over, and it's stuck in the "locked" position. I've tried all the old standby fixes, cranking hard on the wheel while attempting to turn the ignition key but I can't get anything to work. No manual came with the car and I've got one on order, but any help in the meantime would be much appreciated. I've searched this forum and haven't been able to come up with an answer.

[keithy]

set the transmission to "park" and try again?

[dc_98_cam]

If I'm not mistaken, you can turn the steering wheel, .... apply torque to it, and turn the key at the same time. It ought to unlock. No great effort required ... try it two or three times to get it to unlock. ... I think it's a security feature of some kind. You might have to have the battery connected ... not too sure about that, though.

[bronzemaxell]

Originally Posted by dc_98_cam

If I'm not mistaken, you can turn the steering wheel, .... apply torque to it, and turn the key at the same time. It ought to unlock. No great effort required ... try it two or three times to get it to unlock. ... I think it's a security feature of some kind. You might have to have the battery connected ... not too sure about that, though.

what i normally do is when i park my vehicle is after i stopped the engine, i remove the ignition key, and pull the steering wheel to left or right a little bit until i hear a click to lock the steering wheel in additional the club lock, next time when i start the engine, all i need to do is turn the steering wheel left or right while turning the ignition key to on.

[lenjack]

Is there an unlock button in front of and to the left of the shift lever?

[dc_98_cam]

.... I took a look at the 96 Camry steering wheel pdf. On page 12, there is something called the steering lock mechanism. If nothing else works, I would probably see what is involved in checking out that part.:

http://www.**********s.com/camry/sr.pdf

It may be that you can remove the lock mechanism without removing the steering column.
There is also a solenoid that is involved somehow. Be sure this part is functioning properly.
.... clean electrical connections ... use contact cleaner spray.

Is it possible that you have blown a fuse that would affect the lock mechanism operation?
I would check first ....

... Let us know what you find out.

[uibalnme]

Have you tried jacking up the front of the car to take the weight off the front tires, and then turning the wheel and turning the key?