Unable to Unlock Steering Wheel (Engine cannot Start) [06/2018 - 09/2022]: Description
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 2024 Lexus ES 350, 2024 Lexus ES 250, 2023 Lexus ES 350, 2023 Lexus ES 250, and 2022 Lexus ES 350. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The steering lock actuator or upper bracket assembly activates the steering lock motor and moves the lock bar into the steering column to lock the steering.
The steering may not unlock when the lock bar gets stuck in the lock hole of the steering column. In this case, if the engine switch is turned on (IG) while shaking the steering wheel, as is done for a vehicle with a mechanical key, the lock bar will be unlocked. If the ID code box (immobilizer code ECU) or ECM is replaced, the system needs to be initialized. Otherwise, the steering cannot be unlocked and the engine cannot be started.
RELATED DATA LIST AND ACTIVE TEST ITEMS
| Problem Symptom | Data List Item | Active Test Item |
|---|---|---|
| Unable to unlock steering wheel (Engine cannot start) | Smart Key
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