DIY: Replace dreaded steering-lock on 2009s and early 2010s.

Originally Posted by kenchan

Sounds good. But I suppose this is something one must risk doing prior to failure...otherwise same issue with dealing with towing and dealer. Now how many users would risk taking the thing apart while it is still functional is yet another question to consider I suppose.

Originally Posted by KORRUPT

Kenchan, you can remove the white plastic gear completely and the actual shaft that the gear moves up and down to lock the steering wheel, as well as the motor really. Obviously you wont be able to lock the steering wheel but who cares the car will start. As for the electronic pins I assume they have to be held down and connected for the car to start by completing the circuit.There is a metal plate inside the white plastic gear that presses the pins down and completes the circuit when it releases the steering lock. I am by no means a electronics wizz and if someone can come up with an easier way to do it than a piece of metal and electrical tape then I say sweeet and I will open mine up again and change it. Hope this made sense.

Originally Posted by zero

I just looked at photos of the lock unit internal mechanism. It looks like the 2 switches activated by the column shaft. So the 2 switches will determine if you can start the car or not.

Originally Posted by KORRUPT

Hope this helps.