Steering lock-up issue on 2008 Sahara (automatic) – only when turning right

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aramtch

New Member
Joined
Mar 3, 2024
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2
Location
Greenville, SC
Having a strange - and scary - steering issue.

I own a 2008 Wrangler Sahara Unlimited with an automatic transmission and ~260,000 miles. Recently, I've experienced a steering problem twice - and both while driving slowly through parking lots, and both while turning right.
  • Both times, while making a right turn, the steering column suddenly locked up.
  • I could still turn the wheel left freely, and doing so unlocked the steering, allowing me to continue driving normally.
  • It didn't feel like a loss of power steering assist; instead, it mimicked the sensation of the wheel being turned all the way to the right and (even though it wasn't at the end of its travel).
  • Engine remained running.
  • Power stayed on throughout (stereo, dash, etc.)
The first time I thought it was a fluke - a scary, potentially dangerous fluke. But it happened again this evening in the same low-speed scenario. This is obviously alarming - I drive a lot, and can't imagine if this were to happen at high speeds, or with loved ones riding along, or with other cars around.

Feeling like I should park it for now - but it's also my main ride. Has anyone encountered something similar? Any tips, ideas, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
 
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