Steering Lock Not Engaging

[edwardsj]

Hi All,

I've got a defect that has appeared suddenly - the steering lock doesn't seem to engage any more!

When parking it up last week, I noticed that something wasn't right, but it took a few days to work out that when I remove the key from the barrel, there is no "click" noise that is the steering lock, and I swear that there was/is a covering flap that opens to occlude the aperture where the blade goes into the lock.

I've read a few threads, but can't find this exact defect. The MMI turns on/off, interior lights operate as they should - I'm pretty sure the vehicle "knows" that the key has been removed. I've seen other threads where the MMI gets left on, keys get stuck in the barrel, cars unable to start etc - but I don't have any of those problems (yet) - just the steering lock..

Not critical as I can still start/drive the car as normal, but am worried that this might be an "early warning" for a serious defect. So am wondering if anybody has seen this before, and if so, what was the needed repair ? Am gonna check fuses etc myself, but expect that other stuff is likely to be off the same fuse, so would have found that by now. I expect this is probably a U/S solenoid (or whatever actuator is on steering lock), but would need to remove or use VCDS to make that determination..

Any info anybody has would be much appreciated..!!

[Guest 2]

Start with a fault scan with VCDS.

[gupsterg]

I've got a defect that has appeared suddenly - the steering lock doesn't seem to engage any more!

The steering lock is integrated into control unit for access and start authorisation J518 .

IIRC that unit is pricey plus has CP.

Have a google for SSP 326 A6 electrics , consult pages 19 - 21 .

As never seen this unit in real life or experience of it can't say if a repair to the electric motor or swap out of the motor can be done within the control unit.

[Renesis]

Had the same with mine. VCDS showed an error with the ignition lock. Two ways to fix this problem (temporarily) in my situation.

1. Clear fault and should start locking again for a period. Repeat as needed.

2. Give the underside of the steering column a good whack with the palm of your hand. Worked with me when the column had locked with the key inside, before buying a VCDS cable.

Still happens once every couple of months but so far so good.

[Stephan16]

Hello.

I know this is an old thread but this issue is happening for me now in my 07 Q7 4L. Does anyone of you have a solution?

Stephan