How do you unlock a steering column on a car just to be able to turn the wheel?

Question

I am trying to push an old junk car out to the street so the tow truck can pick it up but it is turned toward a wall and there is no way the truck can get close enough to pull it in. How can I unlock (or break) the steering column (I really don't care which one that this point) so that I can turn the wheels to direct out toward the street.

Answer 1

Turning the key while in the ignition to the position just before starting it, usually unlocks the sterring wheel.

Answer 2

The first thing to try is to use a flat screwdriver and hammer it into were you insert the key. If that doesn't work you'll likely have to remove the steering wheel to get at a spur looking thing that is essentially the lock in the steering column. Start tearing away at the horn and its guts until you find the center bolt that holds the steering wheel. once you get the wheel off the "spur" shouldn't be too much further in...
Once your all done you'll probably want to bolt the wheel back in place to get the leverage to turn the wheels.

Answer 3

anyqualified tow company should be able to handle the job, I have been towing cars and doing auto repair for 25yr. never had a car I couldn't get out without damaging it. but in order to unlock the column you have to disasemble it if you do not have the keys. pull steering wheel, turnsignal switch, and steering lock mechanism.

Answer 4

If you have the keys stick them in the ignition and turn it towards the start position. If you don't you might wanna drill out the ignition and turn it with a screwdriver. Or you could ask the tow truck driver, he might have a winch on his truck.

Answer 5

Put the key in the ignition and turn it on and then grab the wheel and turn it left and then right. It should unlock it.