Steering wheel lock

The steering wheel lock (also called steering wheel lock ) serves as a safeguard against unauthorized use of a motor vehicle . This is the simplest and most common way of securing against unauthorized use.

functionality

Usually a bolt combined with the ignition lock is pushed into a groove in the steering column when the key is removed. This bolt engages when the front wheels are turned so that you could only drive in a circle. This prevents the steering from being operated. Only when the key is turned (activating the ignition) is the bolt pulled out again and the vehicle can then be steered again.

In addition to these purely mechanical designs, there are now also ELV, E lectronic L enkrad v erriegelung called systems in which the steering column by electric actuators is locked.

The steering lock is usually attached to the steering column with hardened shear bolts. It can therefore only be removed by grinding the screw heads. The protective plate made of hardened steel at the entrance prevents the lock cylinder from being drilled open. Even with a grinding tool you need at least an hour to get inside the cylinder.

Legal

Such a security is required in Germany for cars and motorcycles by § 38a StVZO .

For vehicles with initial registration in 1995 or later, however, an additional, usually electronic, immobilizer is required to prevent unauthorized engine running or starting.

Similar facilities

• The steering wheel claw achieves the same effect, but offers greater protection.