Locking steering wheel

[Cestrian]

Is it normal for the steering wheel to lock when the car is braked to a standstill? I have not known this to happen on other cars I have owned.

Thanks

 

[Mikeyd1]

Hmm not heard of that before. Does it still do it when auto stop start is disabled? And is ur car keyless

 

[marvin1]

What do you mean by locked - genuinely locked in place as in removing ignition key or stiff to move? If engine cuts due to Start/Stop working then steering becomes very stiff as is no assistance but engine will start again if you move wheel against the resistance.

 

[Cestrian]

Yes, I have just realised it only locks when the auto stop is enabled and I don't have keyless entry. Not sure why it would lock.

 

[GLoBaLReBeL]

I know that when the car is turned off the wheel is locked for security. Could it be that it is locking it because of the auto SS itself?

 

[Cestrian]

That sounds like the probable reason. Strange that the handbook doesn't warn about this though, at least not that I could find.

 

[Mikeyd1]

I'll check my car tomorrow and tell u if it does the same but I don't think mine does it but mines a 2013 so it could be a new feature

 

[Mikeyd1]

Just checked mine and does this also when stop start is enabled

 

[Cestrian]

Thanks for your help. Good to know it isn't a fault.

 

[Mikeyd1]

Thanks for your help. Good to know it isn't a fault.

Ur welcome mate

 

[marvin1]

What do you mean by locked - genuinely locked in place as in removing ignition key or stiff to move? If engine cuts due to Start/Stop working then steering becomes very stiff as is no assistance but engine will start again if you move wheel against the resistance.

Bump!

 

[pcr]

Can anyone offer a good reason, sounds like a design fault to me ?

 

[marvin1]

Can anyone offer a good reason, sounds like a design fault to me ?

Well mine doesn't lock in sense that withdrawing the key ot and turning the wheel slightly until the pin engages. That is when the steering is locked, in my opinion anyway.
When my S/S functions, if i let it, and the engine cuts, then the steering becomes very heavy as though unassisted but is that what you're all talking about?

 

[Cestrian]

I have emailed VW uk support asking if this is normal. I will report back if I get a reply.

 

[Cestrian]

I finally received a response from VW.
'Having consulted with our Technical Support Team, I can confirm if you are referring to the Start/Stop system, the power assisted steering does not operate when Start/Stop is in operation; manual steering is available.'
This means, presumably, the steering isn't locked, but minus the power assistance
it does feel very stiff. I must admit I haven't tried to steer when this happens.