How long does the steering column actuator last?

Modern vehicles use electronic systems to ensure that the steering wheel locks when the key is removed from the ignition, and to prevent the key from falling out of the ignition in any gear other than park. However, older cars used…

Modern vehicles use electronic systems to ensure that the steering wheel locks when the key is removed from the ignition, and to prevent the key from falling out of the ignition in any gear other than park. However, older vehicles used a mechanical solution called a steering column lock actuator. In fact, it was a set of levers and a rod.

If you drive a car that was made before the 1990s, chances are it has a power steering. In fact, this is a series of levers that are activated when the ignition key is turned. The levers will move the rod, which will fix the key in the desired position. The key could not be removed, which provided important security advantages.

Obviously, the mechanical drives of the steering column are subject to heavy wear. They are used every time you turn the ignition key. Because they are mechanical, wear can damage the levers or stem. Shaft damage is perhaps the most common problem. This is especially true if the drive system lubrication wears out (which is very common, especially for work trucks and heavily driven vehicles). When the actuator rod end is damaged, the vehicle may not start or the key may fall out of the ignition switch in any gear.

While less common than they once were, mechanical steering column actuators are still used in some vehicles. Given the importance of this component, you should be aware of several symptoms that indicate that the drive is about to fail (or has already failed). These include the following:

• No resistance when turning the ignition key
• Engine won't start when key is turned (many other problems also have this symptom)
• The key can be removed from the ignition in a gear other than park.

If you are experiencing any of these problems, or if you find that your car won't start for any reason, then you should have your car checked. If necessary, see a licensed mechanic to replace the steering column actuator, as well as to repair any other problems.