Mercury Cougar Steering wheel does not turn car Inspection at your home or office.

Common reasons for this to happen:

• Steering Wheel Lock Is Engaged: If the engine is NOT running and the steering wheel will not turn, it may be nothing more than the steering lock being engaged. All modern vehicles are equipped with a steering lock that makes it impossible to turn the steering wheel without the key in the ignition.

• Damaged Steering Shaft: If your steering shaft is damaged, it may not be transmitting the motion of the steering shaft to the gearbox, although this is very rare.

• Damaged Intermediate Shaft: The primary problem with intermediate shafts is actually the U-joints at either end. If one of these joints is damaged, the steering wheel may not operate correctly.

• Damaged Power Steering Pump or Pulley: If something has happened to the power steering pump or the pulley bearings, it renders the power steering system inoperable and the steering wheel will be very difficult to turn.

• Low Power Steering Fluid: If the steering wheel can be turned, but is stiff, it may be a symptom of low power steering fluid. Leaking fluid leaves the system with inadequate pressure for the task.

• Worn Serpentine or Drive Belt: This is another symptom that applies to a stiff steering wheel. If the serpentine belt is stretched or badly worn, it may slip on the power steering pump pulley, meaning that you’re not getting the power assist you should. Without the help of power steering, many modern vehicles are exceptionally difficult to turn and require significant physical effort to operate the steering wheel.