99 Grand Am Steering

[not_nuf_time]

Hi guys, my daughters 99 grand am steering stays locked up when she starts her car. She has to keep restarting it a number of times till it finally releases. Any ideas?

[Jeremy airjer W]

It doesn't move at all or there is a lack of power assist?

How long has this been happening?

[not_nuf_time]

It doesn't move at all. I guess its been about a week or two.

[Macgyver55]

Near the top of the column, (opposite side of where the key switch is) there is a pin that engages the lock ring when the key is turned off. It operates with the key but is also assisted with a spring. I believe it is engaged manually and returns partially by spring tension, but the problem most likely lies there. I do quite a few column repairs and have only seen problems with these a few times.

Although You wouldn't have to go in very far to find out, it can be a can of worms if you aren't sure what to do. You may end up towing it in somewhere. It will require taking off the air bag, and you would also need a wheel puller and a lock ring remover. If you have never done this before I'd probably recommend not doing it unless you either have a manual handy or someone who has done them before to call on.

[Jeremy airjer W]

I think 99 is the first year they put the ignition switch in the dash. If this is the cause, than I am not entirely sure how they control the lock pin. I'll check when I get into work today.

[Macgyver55]

You know, now that you mention it, I believe you are right! I was thinking 2000, but I bet 99 was the first year and I've not done one of those. More than likely a cable/solenoid system much like the shift interlock for the brake pedal.

[Jeremy airjer W]

I know they call it an anti-rotation pin, I just don't know specifically how it is controlled.

[Jeremy airjer W]

I can't find anything on how it is controlled.

[not_nuf_time]

Thanks for giving it some thought