Steering lock actuator replacement?

2021 TRD sport push to start won’t work and the dealer says my steering lock actuator needs to be replaced. That’ll be $1400 please. I’ve searched but don’t see where anyone has tackled this job, any DYIers out there who can help or point me to a resource? Can I bypass the lock just to start it and get it off the lot?Longtime lurker, love the forum, thanks y’all.

RTR

 

The Toyota factory service manual "Steering Column" section may point you in the right direction...

 

Let's be a bit clearer here: Does the engine start and the steering wheel lock keeps the wheel from turning, thus making it unsafe to maneuver? Or does the truck not start at all? If the truck does not start at all, it is probably not the steering lock would be my guess.

 

To clarify - the truck does nothing. The steering wheel does not unlock, pushing the start button does nothing. The starter does not turn, the engine does not crank. The radio, climate control, all accessories turn on but the starter does not engage. Dealer says the steering wheel lock is not disengaging and that is preventing the starter from doing its job. Battery is good, starter tests fine as well as alternator. I appreciate the help!

 

I also have not heard of anybody attempting this procedure of replacing the Steering Wheel Lock.

So, the dealer seems to be on to the right track. I generally don't trust anything they say.

The steering wheel lock disengaging is indeed the first thing that happens - just tested it on my truck.
Foot off the Brake pedal, push Start button - steering wheel lock disengages.

Have you just held the FOB up to the START button and tried to start that way?

Does your FOB work in all other manners?
Any displays in the center of the combo meter? That might give a clue.

Would really need Techstream to properly diagnose this - of course that is what the dealer uses.

Attached is the Smart Key Starting schematic for your perusal.

The steering lock seems to have its own fuse. 20 Amp STRG LOCK in the inside fuse box.

These are just some thoughts.

 

I had my steering lock stuck on once when i cranked the wheel over by hand after turning the truck off.

Does the truck still remote start? Remote start doesn't unlock the steering wheel before starting the engine so you'll know for sure if it's the steering wheel lock.

If it is the steering wheel lock, it might also be worth it to try jiggling the steering wheel to free the lock in case it's just bound up like mine was once. Might save you from buying a new one if you don't need it.

 

All good stuff - plenty of wiggling and jiggling on that steering wheel with no change. Used to be you could sort of feel the wheel give way when cars were keyed, but PTS takes that point of contact away. Did the fob thing as well. Checked all fuses and relays and they were all fine. Remote start does not work (it was the first thing I tried and man was I deflated when it didn’t crank up). Should remote start function even if that wheel lock is bad? Also tried manual shift lock and moved car to neutral to crank - nothing still. Thanks for the ideas and advice!

 

Not sure the extent of the dealer dx that was done, but that sounds more like a certification ECU/communication issue, especially with the no start condition...the steering wheel lock is just a motor that gets commanded.

There is a specific troubleshooting matrix in the FSM for this exact issue...