My new 2011 MC's steering wheel doesn't lock when I eject the "key." I asked the service advisor who didn't even seem to know. He got the key for a MC Convertible that was on display, put the key in the ignition, ejected it and the steering wheel didn't lock. Did he need to turn the car on first? I called another dealer and was told that the steering wheels don't lock and someone at my PhillyMINI forum stated that the key fob ignition doesn't have mechanical linkage in the steering column to lock the steering wheel so you wouldn't be able to lock or unlock it. However, another forum member said that when his comfort access key (I don't have that option) is ejected the steering wheel locks. I'm hoping I can get an answer on this. Thanks!

 

I saw the topic come up on this forum a few years ago. My understanding is that steering wheel lock was required by US regulation until a few years ago, and after it was no longer required, BMW discontinued it on all their cars (including MINI). This would imply that no new MINI's have a steering wheel lock, but I don't know this for a fact.

 

My 2011 JCW doesn't.

 

My 2008 did not have it either.

 

As far as I know it was discontinued in 07 sometime, so our 07 has a steering lock, our 08 doesn't.