"Situation - Both front tires look to be shredded on the outside third of both treads - left front and right front"
I would think if the steering had locked, the tires would be shredded on the inside of one, outside of the other. Unless you have positive camber on each wheel. But even then, that would have to be a really noticeable camber to affect the outside 1/3 of each tire.
Odd situation. If you ever figure it out, let us know.
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