Rep: 1
1
06 Sonata Steering wheel locks up while driving and turning plus the battery light and seatbelt light comes on the locked steering while the car is still on, last about 10secs then back to normal, it has happened 3 times in last 2 years but now is doing it more then usual and its very dangerous, i need to know what the heck is going on thx
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Hi @gldbnd39
May be easier to get the vehicle's OBDII port scanned to see if any DTC codes have been logged by the ECU.
Perhaps there may be a code pertaining to the steering etc which would tell you what the problem is.
If you're in the USA places like AutoZone, PepBoys etc will do this for free apparently
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No codes already did all of that thx anyway
Due to it being intermittent it may be difficult to track down.
Check if the serpentine belt is OK i.e. not worn etc and has the correct tension (check if the belt auto tensioner is OK, weak spring perhaps?) on all the pulleys , especially the pulleys on the alternator and the power steering pump. Here's a video that may help
If the alternator isn't turning at the required rate it may not be producing enough power to supply everything needed whilst the engine is running and the car is in motion, hence the battery warning light.
If the power steering pump is not turning properly the steering may feel a lot heavier than it should. With most cars when the ignition key is in the start or run position the steering wheel is not mechanically locked or if it is then there's a problem with the ignition key steering lock pin but this shouldn't give you the warning lights.
Here's the 2.4L belt diagram and the 3.3L belt diagram (you didn't specify which) that may also help
It locks up only when turning and it has only happened 5 times in the last 3 years
You may have to check the steering system i.e. hydraulic power e.g. pump. belt, fluid (does it smell burnt?), tie rods, linkages, suspension e.g. loose, binding, rust. etc
In the end you may have to get a mechanic to check it out. They may spot something that you may miss. Your life is worth more than the cost of a repair
Cheers
Past 24 Hours: 1
Past 7 Days: 17
Past 30 Days: 53
All Time: 53
You may have more than one problem, power steering and main electrical system. The battery light intermittently turning on indicates possible issues; battery, battery cables, their connections, drive belt, belt tensioner, and alternator. Free battery and alternator tests are available from Autozone and other stores selling batteries.
by F Dryer