Rep Power: 145

So my "new" Civic had been in a relatively small front end accident in its past and it seems like the steering components were somehow modified or at least not returned to their original state.

When I turn the ignition off and remove the key, I used to be able to move the steering slightly and lock the wheel in (In my other Civic). Well, this Civic doesn't seem to do that. I'm not sure exactly what components may be missing but I assume it is somehow linked to the ignition system since turning the ignition with the key unlocks the wheel.

Just kind of wondering where I start on this, as in, where do I start looking? I am hoping to re-install this feature if it isn't too much work, or more importantly, too much money.

 
Rep Power: 517

Remove key and lay it on the seat,
grab wheel with both hands and turn that sucker one complete turn.
SOMEwhere the lock should engage.
There is only one position that it can lock and it could be anywhere, it's rarely the same position between any two cars.

 
Rep Power: 145

Lol, ok, I'll give it a try.... My other Civic used to lock right at 0 deg, top, center. I just figured they all did that. I'll spin it around and see what happens.

 
Rep Power: 517

The shaft inside the column could be assembled in any of about 60 different positions. That shaft only has one slot for the lock to engage in.

 
Rep Power: 145

Ok, so I actually DID find the locking location!, about 5 o'clock....

So is that ok then? It doesn't have to be locked in the 11-1 o'clock position?

Can I move it so it does lock in that position?

 
Rep Power: 517

It works as designed.
Not necessarily as desired.
IMHO DFWI, you're done.

HTH

 
Rep Power: 145

Haha