Gen5 2003 Camry XLE I4 - Should Steering Wheel Lock?

[SIrMack]

I have a 2003 Toyota Camry XLE with the I4 Engine. If I park the car, and remove the keys, I am able to turn the steering way all the way left or right without the lock ever engaging.

The dealership says they "Don't know" if it is suppose to lock or not, so I figured I would check with the experts here.

Is this normal or is this something I need to get repaired?

Thanks!

[danorthface]

your owners manual says it locks.. and it tells you how to unlock it

[SIrMack]

Originally Posted by danorthface

your owners manual says it locks.. and it tells you how to unlock it

That is what I figured, and from looking at the manual it says it locks. But the dealership was saying that they weren't sure if it was in "all camrys" and it could possibly be fine.

But I figured that if you remove the key and then turn the wheel it should "click" and lock.

Sounds like the Steering Lock Mechanism needs to be replaced.

[SIrMack]

Does anyone know what the particular part is called that needs to be replaced to lock the steering wheel? Or perhaps have a part number?

[BlackCamSe]

Originally Posted by SIrMack

Does anyone know what the particular part is called that needs to be replaced to lock the steering wheel? Or perhaps have a part number?

you should only be able to turn it a quarter-turn before it locks.

[SIrMack]

Originally Posted by XxTrD_ToYoTaxX

you should only be able to turn it a quarter-turn before it locks.

It takes a little more than half a turn to lock. Does this mean it is malfunctioning?

[BlackCamSe]

Originally Posted by SIrMack

It takes a little more than half a turn to lock. Does this mean it is malfunctioning?

no. as long as it locks you're fine