98 s70 steering wheel locked while driving

Anut808 · Post by **Anut808** » 25 Apr 2015, 07:20

the steering wheel suddenly locked up while we were driving. I was able to wiggle the wheel and get it unlocked. any ideas what to check ?

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 25 Apr 2015, 11:05

Does the key work properly or does it spin all the way around. The ignition cylinder on the 70 series is a know weak spot. It is a fairly big deal to change it but we have a couple of writeups in the repair database.

...Lee

Anut808 · Post by **Anut808** » 25 Apr 2015, 12:06

The key doesn't spin all the way around. But when you put the key in sometones you have to flip the key around and jiggle the wheel to get it to turn.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 25 Apr 2015, 19:34

If the key is behaving more or less properly then the cylinder is likely OK. Were there any unusual sounds? This is an odd problem which is why I am asking so many questions. There are a few things that could be happening but they are all rare.

The power steering pump could have a problem, I would check the fluid level in the reservoir and also check the line from the reservoir to the pump. The way the hose routes it is possible for it to wear on the power steering pump pulley.

The rack itself could be the problem but its typical problem is that it will spring a leak and there will be puddles of fluid on the ground under the car.

The linkage from the steering wheel to the rack could be binding but that typically gives you quite a bit of warning in that the steering will feel rough.

I'm at a bit of a loss on this one since it is so unusual but it certainly needs to be dealt with.

...Lee

Anut808 · Post by **Anut808** » 25 Apr 2015, 22:27

Well checked the fluid and it was low. Will watch and see if it's leaking. Thanks Lee..

Post by **cn90** » 26 Apr 2015, 10:05

Very unusual issue of SW lock during driving. This happens when the rectangular piece somehow goes straight upward, locking the SW.

For safety reason, consider getting rid of this SW lock feature. On a related topic of tumbler issues, when you remove the bottom plate, you remove the SW feature because the spring is removed...

DIY: 1998 S70 GLT Ignition Tumbler FREE Fix!
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... hp?t=67531