Column lock

[bwing]

I have an '03 Z06. I started my car yesterday and my DIC displayed this message "Check column lock". I had the column lock serviced/replace 2 yrs ago when it was in for service. They checked the VIN and said there was a service bulletin re: its fixture. Can anyone tell me why this msg popped up? Could the column lock be bad again? I've driven the car, carefully, and there's no lock up.

 

[zagger]

Careful driving will have no impact on column lock reoccurring. What I've learned through numerous problems is that the GM fix is not reliable. The only thing that is a sure fix is a Column Lock Bypass. I was very reluctant to install one myself, especially after hearing what C4C5 specialist had to say about the mod. It was only from desperation that I did and I couldn't be happier about it. There are many reasons for this happening. One of the more prevalent ones is low voltage in the battery. This is specially deceiving since the battery could have enough juice to start the engine with ease but still be to week to disengage the solenoid. For me the CLB was the only way to regain any kind of confidence in making the problem go away. Good luck, Zig.

 

[bwing]

Careful driving will have no impact on column lock reoccurring. What I've learned through numerous problems is that the GM fix is not reliable. The only thing that is a sure fix is a Column Lock Bypass. I was very reluctant to install one myself, especially after hearing what C4C5 specialist had to say about the mod. It was only from desperation that I did and I couldn't be happier about it. There are many reasons for this happening. One of the more prevalent ones is low voltage in the battery. This is specially deceiving since the battery could have enough juice to start the engine with ease but still be to week to disengage the solenoid. For me the CLB was the only way to regain any kind of confidence in making the problem go away. Good luck, Zig.

Thanks for the info Zig. When I talked to the service tech today he asked me if the pin lock had been removed by the dealer the last time it was in. Since I didn't know, that's what I told him. Right now, with the ignition switched off and the key removed I can still turn the steering wheel as it doesn't lock in place. I've also heard the the CLB is kind of "iffy" and was told to stay away from it if at all possible. I may have to go that route if they can't guarantee a permanent fix.

 

[zagger]

It sounds like the locking plate was removed, that was one of the fixes by GM. I've read tons of threads about the subject and some people had problems even after that fix. Seams that the computer still read a problem with the solenoid and cut off fuel delivery to the engine. The newer CLB devices are supposed to be more reliable than some of the original ones. I shared same concerns as you about the CLB. Finally after getting stuck for the third time and paying for the tow charges, the dealer would not cover since the fix was already done, I broke down and purchased CLB from West Coast Corvette. This was my last resort before selling the car. I could not own a vehicle that was so unreliable and GM would not fess up to the responsibility of making it wright. If you continue to have problems I can strongly recommend from personal experience to install the CLB and get a piece of mind about not getting stuck somewhere when it is least convenient, if there ever is that time. Good luck, regards Zig.

 

[bwing]

It sounds like the locking plate was removed, that was one of the fixes by GM. I've read tons of threads about the subject and some people had problems even after that fix. Seams that the computer still read a problem with the solenoid and cut off fuel delivery to the engine. The newer CLB devices are supposed to be more reliable than some of the original ones. I shared same concerns as you about the CLB. Finally after getting stuck for the third time and paying for the tow charges, the dealer would not cover since the fix was already done, I broke down and purchased CLB from West Coast Corvette. This was my last resort before selling the car. I could not own a vehicle that was so unreliable and GM would not fess up to the responsibility of making it wright. If you continue to have problems I can strongly recommend from personal experience to install the CLB and get a piece of mind about not getting stuck somewhere when it is least convenient, if there ever is that time. Good luck, regards Zig.

The dealer tech said the problem was probably a relay so he replaced the steering lock relay and the msg was still there. He checked further and said it was an actuator. I haven't the foggiest idea what he's talking about. They've ordered the part and I have an app't on Jan 2 to have it installed. Let's hope this is the culprit. While the car was being looked at the tech said that the previous dealer who did the service bulletin repair on the steering column didn't do it completely and did not remove the locking plate. He said the work was done and the info transferred to the master GM VIN list as being repaired.

 

[zagger]

The actuator is a small DC motor that drives a pin in and out of the locking plate in the steering column cosing it to lock and unlock. The whole system energizes before anything else when starting a car. The motor itself looks like a cheep toy car motor and is about as reliable. Removing the plate allows the actuator to function without any binding from the plate. Some people still experienced problems when the motor itself failed and PCM read a problem with the loop and still shot off fuel. The only good thing about that fix was that one could steer the car onto a flatbed. The CLB produces a false loop leaving the actuator in a permanent off position and fools the PCM as if it still was on the loop. The computer never shots off fuel and steering is always unlocked. Regards, Zig.

PS. My biggest frustration through my ordeal was the dealer finger pointing. I was forced to call GM. They were very pro active at talking but my problems persisted. The third time it happened it cost me close to 1k between towing, diagnoses and fix. Neither the dealer nor GM would fess up to repair saying that all proper work was performed and making me feel like I have done something wrong and it was mine fault.

 

[bwing]

Thanks for all the info Zig.