My steering wheel locked up.?

(2010-10-14 14:10:10)

1. Moon on the Water Says: I have a 1989 Toyota Corolla, about 163K. The steering wheel recently locked up - could not steer it at all - and then the car died. I am going to take it to a garage but could this be a belt issue? Could that run me a lot of money? Thanks for any advice.

2. don r Says: The car died first then the steering locked up because the engine wasn't running. The cam belt probably broke or shredded. It only needs replacing by someone who knows how to to the job right- $200 is usually what it costs. Get a new water pump while you have it open in that area- another $50. Changing a cam belt should be done from 60,000 to 90,000 miles. It's hard- nearly impossible to say when it will break after 60,000 miles. Your car probably got a new one once, a long time ago, and the time to do the job again came and went. I'm glad you got out of this safely.

3. Forunae Says: The power steering belt wil cause it to sleep if loose and the pump will not work,also low fluid in it
Does the pump turn?
If does not turn ,you need a new one or rebuilt one

4. mailbox1024 Says: yes, if the belt broke , then you would lose the pressure assist for the steering. Shouldnt be too expensive to repair.
good luck.....