Lady needs COLUMN LOCK advice. Please help, Thanks.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
Lady needs COLUMN LOCK advice. Please help, Thanks.
Hi All,
I read some threads but still need input. I'm 3rd owner of my 50th Anni, 6 spd, and still new to this since I've only had the vette for 15 mos. I replaced the Delco battery by myself, with an Optima Redtop, about 6 wks ago after the old battery discharged for the 2nd time for unknown reasons.
The problem now is the DIC displayed "service column lock" (immed after it displayed "low oil level" - I added 1/2 quart). I live 1 block from the Chevy dealership so took it there thinking I shouldn't drive it any further. According to their database, the car had the recall repair performed in 04 but only the "first phase" where instructions were to just reprogram the module (I'm confused since my research seems to indcate this was only an option on the automatic trans). The service rep and tech have computer diagnosed the car ($140) and determined that the car needs either:
1) a new steering column lock module and relay kit
OR
2) the Column lock bypass
My choice to make at a cost of approx $510 either way. Total repair around $650
Which should I have done (pro and cons of both)? How much should I expect to pay? Shouldn't part of this be covered under the old recall to some extent? I believe shops should make a fair profit but I have no way of knowing what repair is really needed and how much it should cost. I hesitate to bring up a topic here that has been covered ad nauseum on CF but I'm adrift in a sea of info.
Though I may understand more about cars than the ave gal, when it comes to electronics I'm feeling vulnerable and want the car to be stock (I think ?) and in good, safe operation without getting soaked by paying "Corvette tax" for the repair.
Thanks so much for any help anyone can lend. I really appreciate it.
I read some threads but still need input. I'm 3rd owner of my 50th Anni, 6 spd, and still new to this since I've only had the vette for 15 mos. I replaced the Delco battery by myself, with an Optima Redtop, about 6 wks ago after the old battery discharged for the 2nd time for unknown reasons.
The problem now is the DIC displayed "service column lock" (immed after it displayed "low oil level" - I added 1/2 quart). I live 1 block from the Chevy dealership so took it there thinking I shouldn't drive it any further. According to their database, the car had the recall repair performed in 04 but only the "first phase" where instructions were to just reprogram the module (I'm confused since my research seems to indcate this was only an option on the automatic trans). The service rep and tech have computer diagnosed the car ($140) and determined that the car needs either:
1) a new steering column lock module and relay kit
OR
2) the Column lock bypass
My choice to make at a cost of approx $510 either way. Total repair around $650
Which should I have done (pro and cons of both)? How much should I expect to pay? Shouldn't part of this be covered under the old recall to some extent? I believe shops should make a fair profit but I have no way of knowing what repair is really needed and how much it should cost. I hesitate to bring up a topic here that has been covered ad nauseum on CF but I'm adrift in a sea of info.
Though I may understand more about cars than the ave gal, when it comes to electronics I'm feeling vulnerable and want the car to be stock (I think ?) and in good, safe operation without getting soaked by paying "Corvette tax" for the repair.
Thanks so much for any help anyone can lend. I really appreciate it.
Last edited by C5lady; Jan 8, 2009 at 12:04 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 3,394
Likes: 12
From: Leon Iowa
St. Jude Donor '06-'07-'08-'09
The best way to fix this is run away from the dealer and just buy the column lock bypass from one of the vendors on here. Corvettes of houston or Dallas. Trust me when I say the factory recalls are junk. I'm sure everybody else will tell you the same thing. It only costs like 50 bucks by the way.
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 4,290
Likes: 1,163
From: Green and Wet Western Oregon
2023 C7 of the Year Winner - Unmodified
2018 C6 of Year Winner
Others will join in with more info, but for now let me say that GM ended the Column Lock Recall in Feb. `08. Any repairs you need done are no longer covered by warranty.
The best thing you can do about this issue is buy a Column Lock Bypass - this can be found at most of the Corvette aftermarket dealers (Mid-America, Ecklers, West Coast, Corvettes of Houston, etc.). It costs around $50 and comes with very good detailed instructions. If you are not comfortable installing this yourself, you can probably find a CF member in your area who would install it for you. The CLB is the best peace-of-mind you can buy.
The best thing you can do about this issue is buy a Column Lock Bypass - this can be found at most of the Corvette aftermarket dealers (Mid-America, Ecklers, West Coast, Corvettes of Houston, etc.). It costs around $50 and comes with very good detailed instructions. If you are not comfortable installing this yourself, you can probably find a CF member in your area who would install it for you. The CLB is the best peace-of-mind you can buy.
Drifting
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,515
Likes: 14
From: Gig Harbor WA
Here you go: (Author on CF is cited at end. Hope this helps!) Jack
------------
Steering Column Lock FAQs - please read before you post!
This is an attempt to compile all the Column Lock Information into one place. If there are errors, please contact me so I can make corrections. With all the recalls, there is a lot of confusion, questions, anxiety, and threads. Hopefully this will be helpful to our forum readers.
GM installed a Steering Column Lock mechanism on all 1997 - 2004 manual (MN6) cars and on 1997 to 2000 automatic (A4) cars
There is a GM recall for this problem on affected models and years
It is one of the most problematic issues that we C5 owners deal with
It can happen to you if you have a pre-2001 A4 without the recall or CLB installed OR any year MN6 or Z06 car without a CLB installed. Age or mileage makes no difference.
Low battery voltage seems to aggravate and sometimes cause column lock failures
Q What is the symptom of failure?
A Your steering wheel will not unlock and the DIC will display an error message "Service Steering Column Lock". Your owner's manual will instruct you to have your vehicle towed to the nearest GM dealer for repair.
Q What exactly causes this failure?
A When you insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, the BCM (Body Control Module) sends a command to your Column Lock Motor to "unlock" and then checks a status line to ensure that the steering column is unlocked. If it gets the wrong status, it will display an error message as mentioned above. It can be caused by ECL (Electronic Column Lock) mechanism failure and occasionally by low battery voltage, which sometimes confuses the BCM.
Q Can anything be done to unlock the steering column once it has locked up?
A Sometimes; turn the ignition OFF and REMOVE the key. Shock your lock motor actuator assembly by jerking the steering wheel against the stops. Re-insert your key and try again. Also, if your battery voltage is low, charge your battery or replace it.
Q If my battery is discharged and I jump it to get the engine started, the alternator is now charging shouldn't the column unlock?
A NO; The whole unlock sequence occurs before you ever turn your key to start your engine. If the battery is too low, you will probably have trouble with your column lock. Several folks have replaced their battery and the column lock problem has never occurred since.
Q Does this problem affect both A4’s and MN6 vehicles?
A Yes; however if you have 2001 or newer A4 car, the ECL lock plate has been replaced.
Q What years are affected?
A Pre-2001 A4 cars and all MN6 or MN12(Z06) cars.
Q Is there any solution for this problem?
A Yes; have the recall done if you have an A4 car or install a Column Lock Bypass (CLB) on MN6 & MN12 cars BEFORE the problem occurs. Once it fails, you may not be able to fix it without GM repair.
Q Where can I purchase a CLB?
A They are available from several of our forum vendors such as:
Thunder Racing and Corvettes of Houston
Q How much does a CLB cost?
A Typically about $49.95.
Q Is a CLB difficult to install?
A No; very simple (less than an hour) by following instructions. See this link for help: http://97vette.com/howto/columnlock/index.html
Q Can I build my own?
A Yes; if you have soldering skills and $20 in parts, you can build your own in about 1 hour. See this link for info: http://shelor.net/Z/CorvetteForum/Cscokd/
Q Are there other alternatives?
A Yes; there is a GM "Harness K" GM part no. 89023816 (was 88952427), which GM installs as part of its recall; it costs ~ $85.50.
This harness is installed leaving the Column Lock Motor active. However the Lock Plate inside the steering column must be removed or replaced. If installing on a MN6/M12, do NOT connect up the column lock motor harness side (C207 female receptacle).
Q What exactly does the GM recall do?
A The following details were provided by forum member "TopCat" and should prove very helpful:
If your car has NOT been previously serviced under Customer Satisfaction Campaign 01044 or TSB 01-02-35-008, the GM recall outlines a 3-step process:
Installation of wire/relay kit under the passenger footwell
Re-program your PCM
Jack up your front-end with your wheels off the ground to do a functional test with the Tech 2. If any scraping, clicking, etc. is "heard" or felt by the service technician during the functional test, then the locking plate, retaining ring, and nut are supposed to be replaced.
If a CLB or a Harness K is found during this process (the recall specifically mentions this), it is supposed to be removed.
Here's a very informative link that describes the actual GM service instructions including electrical diagrams:
Chevy Dealer Service Bulletin
For MN6 & MN12 cars only:
1997
Reprogram Only
1998 built through 5/25/98
Reprogram Only
1998 built on or after 5/28/98 (CSC 01044 was performed)
Reprogram Only
1998 built on or after 5/28/98 (CSC 01044 was not performed)
Install wire kit (part#88952428) and reprogram
1999-2000 and CSC 01044 or TSC 01--02-36-008 was performed
Reprogram Only
1999-2000 and CSC 01044 or TSC 01--02-36-008 was not performed
Install wire kit (part#88952428) and reprogram
2001-2004
Reprogram Only
For A4 cars only:
1997-2000 A4's
Install wire kit (Harness K), remove and discard lock plate, install the "cam orientation plate" where the lock plate previously resided. No PCM flash required.
2001-2004 A4's
No Change Required - they didn't install the Electric Column Lock (ECL) on those years, in the U.S., after experiencing so many problems.
Q I have an A4 car; what should I do if I get a recall notice from GM?
A This is a personal decision. My advice is to have the recall implemented. They will service your car per the above recall discussion. After the recall is implemented on A4's, you should be able to turn your steering wheel with the key removed. The only anti-theft mechanism now will be your A4 transmission will remain locked until the key is ON.
Q I have a MN6/M12 car, what will the recall do?
A IF you have a MN6/M12 car, the recall does NOT disable your column lock motor. It simply re-programs your PCM to guarantee your fuel is shut off at speeds above 2 mph so you cannot drive your car with the steering column locked. The column lock failure can still occur at any time and you will most likely be stranded somewhere needing to be towed to the nearest dealer for repair when it occurs.
Q If I have a MN6/M12 car, what should I do?
A Again this is a personal decision. Advice is to install a CLB and ignore the recall. It does nothing to prevent the problem from occurring.
Q If I have a MN6/M12 car, will the GM recall re-program my PCM and affect my tuning?
A Yes; See description of recall instruction above. There are several horror stories related to this. Most folks with tunes do NOT allow the recall to be implemented.
Q Exactly how does the steering column lock mechanism work?
A The steering column lock unit consists of a 12VDC motor, a worm drive gear, a locking pin, and a micro switch which is activated by the lock pin screwing down thru a lock plate with holes or slots in it to lock your steering column.
Q Can the steering lock up while driving my car?
A There have been a few rumors of this. The only way this is possible is if the BCM should fail sending a "lock" command to your lock motor. There are some fears that the lock motor can partially retract but not all the way so that the lock pin could engage the locking plate later while driving. This is highly unlikely due to the mechanical micro-switch, which detects when the lock pin is completely retracted before sending the "unlock" signal back to the BCM.
The worm gear on the motor turns a gear on a threaded shaft that "jacks" the pin assembly in the direction determined by the motor. link was lost
[i]The second picture shows the pin/jack assembly, laid out
link was lost
Finally, the last photo shows the micro-switch that is either opened or closed by the body of the pin assembly:
link was lost
Q If I install a CLB, can the steering column lock up accidentally from vibration or shock?
A Highly unlikely; the lock pin is driven by a worm gear drive on the motor which can not move without the motor turning as well.
Q What exactly does the CLB consist of?
A A small module that plugs (in place of your Column Lock Motor) into C207 (male pin side) consisting of a 4-wire harness to your BCM. The CLB consists of a 12VDC-latching relay. Connections are:
Purple wire: from BCM = UNLOCK
Orange Wire: from BCM = LOCK
Black Wire: Ground
Green Wire: to BCM = OPEN is locked; CLOSED (grounded) is unlocked. This status line is pulled up to +12V thru a resistor inside the BCM module.
Q I still get the "Pull Key and Wait 10 Seconds" message and "Service Steering Column Lock" message? What do I do now?
A1 Sometimes the latching relay in the CLB can get out of sync sending the wrong status to your BCM. This has happened to a few folks even with the CLB installed. The CLB latching relay gets out of sync with the BCM possibly due to shock, vibration or relay contact bounce during switching which confused the BCM. The CLB does not physically know which state it should be in; it only switches from one state to the other when it receives a signal from the BCM. The BCM can be reset by pulling Fuse 23 and waiting 10 seconds.
A2 Check to make sure Fuse 25 in passenger footwell is good.
A3 Verify the black wire to your ECL or CLB is grounded (zero ohms resistance).
A5 Verify the green wire to the ECL or CLB is shorted to ground while in the "UNLOCKED" position and pulled up to +12Vdc while in the "LOCKED" position.
A6 If you get the "Pull Key and Wait 10 Seconds" message but no "Service Column Lock" message, it can sometimes be a symptom of your security system and related to your key pellet.
Q What can happen then if my CLB gets out of sync?
A Your DIC will display "Service Steering Column Lock" error message; your steering wheel will not be locked; if you own a 1997-2000 C5 that has not had the recall implemented; you should be able to drive your car normally. You must reset your DIC each time you start your car if you are annoyed with the error message. IF you have a newer C5 (2001-2004) OR you've had the recall implemented, you will NOT be able to drive your car because the fuel will be shut off at speeds above 2 mph.
Q When I purchase the CLB, what is the extra harness with the cigarette lighter plug used for?
A This is simply to help you unlock your steering column with the ignition key removed. It is used one-time only just before you install your CLB. It connects +12V to the purple wire on the Column Lock Motor to unlock your steering column. Another method is to turn on your ignition key, verify that your steering wheel is unlocked, then disconnect the wire harness to your lock motor. You will need to reset your BCM after doing this to clear the error that this will create.
Q I had the recall done and now after a few weeks my car is getting the dreaded “Service Column Lock” error message and I can’t drive it because the fuel is shut off. What should I do?
A You have the following choices: 1) return to the dealer and make them fix it; 2) A4 cars - replace or remove the Harness "K" assembly; 3) remove the recall mods and restore to original; 4)MN6/M12 cars only - go into your passenger footwell, locate the relay added by the recall mod, remove the relay altogether and bypass the circuit as described below (my choice).
Q What happens when I install an aftermarket CLB and it doesn’t work?
A You probably have the GM recall mod (mentioned above) installed on your car already. This could happen by GM installing the mod at the factory, or the recall mod was already completed by you or a previous owner.
Q How can I tell if I’ve had the recall mod?
A1 If you have an A4 car, can you turn your steering wheel freely while the ignition key is removed? If so, you probably DO have the recall mod.
A2 For all cars, you can inspect your wiring by removing your knee bolster under the driver's side. Inspect your column lock harness. If the four wires in your ECL harness are Orange, Purple, Green, Black on both sides of the connector, then you DO NOT have the recall mod installed. If you have White, Purple, Green, Black on either side of the connector, then you DO have the recall mod.
Q Why is there sometimes a conflict between the recall mod and my CLB?
A For MN6 and M12 cars, the recall mod added a second relay (different from the Harness K which is the GM version of the CLB) between your BCM and your ECL in series with the orange (LOCK) wire. This is to safeguard against a spurious glitch from ever locking your ECL while you are driving (clearly GM is paranoid now). The problem is that this second relay is causing a timing glitch, which resets your CLB immediately after it switches states. The reason it works with your stock ECL is because your ECL motor (being mechanical and slow compared to solid-state logic), is immune to these timing glitches whereas the latching relay inside your CLB sees these glitches and reacts to them.
Q For MN6/M12 cars what can I do if this situation occurs?
A Go into your passenger footwell. Remove your BCM and locate the recall mod relay, remove it and add a jumper wire between the white wire (pin 30) and the orange wire (pin 87). Note that there are two orange wires, so make sure you get the right one!
Q Can CLB modules fail?
A Yes; we have occasionally heard of a CLB failure.
Q If my CLB fails, will it damage my BCM?
A Possibly, but extremely doubtful; there have been some claims of this happening, however after personally researching it now for the last year and talking with many forum members, I have yet to see where a BCM actually experienced electrical damage. GM put fuses into their designs to protect the BCM from short circuits and failures.
Please send me comments. Thanks!
cscokd@gmail.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Last edited by Cscokd; 06-26-2007 at 05:57 PM. Reason: updates, photo links were lost, email address update
------------
Steering Column Lock FAQs - please read before you post!
This is an attempt to compile all the Column Lock Information into one place. If there are errors, please contact me so I can make corrections. With all the recalls, there is a lot of confusion, questions, anxiety, and threads. Hopefully this will be helpful to our forum readers.
GM installed a Steering Column Lock mechanism on all 1997 - 2004 manual (MN6) cars and on 1997 to 2000 automatic (A4) cars
There is a GM recall for this problem on affected models and years
It is one of the most problematic issues that we C5 owners deal with
It can happen to you if you have a pre-2001 A4 without the recall or CLB installed OR any year MN6 or Z06 car without a CLB installed. Age or mileage makes no difference.
Low battery voltage seems to aggravate and sometimes cause column lock failures
Q What is the symptom of failure?
A Your steering wheel will not unlock and the DIC will display an error message "Service Steering Column Lock". Your owner's manual will instruct you to have your vehicle towed to the nearest GM dealer for repair.
Q What exactly causes this failure?
A When you insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, the BCM (Body Control Module) sends a command to your Column Lock Motor to "unlock" and then checks a status line to ensure that the steering column is unlocked. If it gets the wrong status, it will display an error message as mentioned above. It can be caused by ECL (Electronic Column Lock) mechanism failure and occasionally by low battery voltage, which sometimes confuses the BCM.
Q Can anything be done to unlock the steering column once it has locked up?
A Sometimes; turn the ignition OFF and REMOVE the key. Shock your lock motor actuator assembly by jerking the steering wheel against the stops. Re-insert your key and try again. Also, if your battery voltage is low, charge your battery or replace it.
Q If my battery is discharged and I jump it to get the engine started, the alternator is now charging shouldn't the column unlock?
A NO; The whole unlock sequence occurs before you ever turn your key to start your engine. If the battery is too low, you will probably have trouble with your column lock. Several folks have replaced their battery and the column lock problem has never occurred since.
Q Does this problem affect both A4’s and MN6 vehicles?
A Yes; however if you have 2001 or newer A4 car, the ECL lock plate has been replaced.
Q What years are affected?
A Pre-2001 A4 cars and all MN6 or MN12(Z06) cars.
Q Is there any solution for this problem?
A Yes; have the recall done if you have an A4 car or install a Column Lock Bypass (CLB) on MN6 & MN12 cars BEFORE the problem occurs. Once it fails, you may not be able to fix it without GM repair.
Q Where can I purchase a CLB?
A They are available from several of our forum vendors such as:
Thunder Racing and Corvettes of Houston
Q How much does a CLB cost?
A Typically about $49.95.
Q Is a CLB difficult to install?
A No; very simple (less than an hour) by following instructions. See this link for help: http://97vette.com/howto/columnlock/index.html
Q Can I build my own?
A Yes; if you have soldering skills and $20 in parts, you can build your own in about 1 hour. See this link for info: http://shelor.net/Z/CorvetteForum/Cscokd/
Q Are there other alternatives?
A Yes; there is a GM "Harness K" GM part no. 89023816 (was 88952427), which GM installs as part of its recall; it costs ~ $85.50.
This harness is installed leaving the Column Lock Motor active. However the Lock Plate inside the steering column must be removed or replaced. If installing on a MN6/M12, do NOT connect up the column lock motor harness side (C207 female receptacle).
Q What exactly does the GM recall do?
A The following details were provided by forum member "TopCat" and should prove very helpful:
If your car has NOT been previously serviced under Customer Satisfaction Campaign 01044 or TSB 01-02-35-008, the GM recall outlines a 3-step process:
Installation of wire/relay kit under the passenger footwell
Re-program your PCM
Jack up your front-end with your wheels off the ground to do a functional test with the Tech 2. If any scraping, clicking, etc. is "heard" or felt by the service technician during the functional test, then the locking plate, retaining ring, and nut are supposed to be replaced.
If a CLB or a Harness K is found during this process (the recall specifically mentions this), it is supposed to be removed.
Here's a very informative link that describes the actual GM service instructions including electrical diagrams:
Chevy Dealer Service Bulletin
For MN6 & MN12 cars only:
1997
Reprogram Only
1998 built through 5/25/98
Reprogram Only
1998 built on or after 5/28/98 (CSC 01044 was performed)
Reprogram Only
1998 built on or after 5/28/98 (CSC 01044 was not performed)
Install wire kit (part#88952428) and reprogram
1999-2000 and CSC 01044 or TSC 01--02-36-008 was performed
Reprogram Only
1999-2000 and CSC 01044 or TSC 01--02-36-008 was not performed
Install wire kit (part#88952428) and reprogram
2001-2004
Reprogram Only
For A4 cars only:
1997-2000 A4's
Install wire kit (Harness K), remove and discard lock plate, install the "cam orientation plate" where the lock plate previously resided. No PCM flash required.
2001-2004 A4's
No Change Required - they didn't install the Electric Column Lock (ECL) on those years, in the U.S., after experiencing so many problems.
Q I have an A4 car; what should I do if I get a recall notice from GM?
A This is a personal decision. My advice is to have the recall implemented. They will service your car per the above recall discussion. After the recall is implemented on A4's, you should be able to turn your steering wheel with the key removed. The only anti-theft mechanism now will be your A4 transmission will remain locked until the key is ON.
Q I have a MN6/M12 car, what will the recall do?
A IF you have a MN6/M12 car, the recall does NOT disable your column lock motor. It simply re-programs your PCM to guarantee your fuel is shut off at speeds above 2 mph so you cannot drive your car with the steering column locked. The column lock failure can still occur at any time and you will most likely be stranded somewhere needing to be towed to the nearest dealer for repair when it occurs.
Q If I have a MN6/M12 car, what should I do?
A Again this is a personal decision. Advice is to install a CLB and ignore the recall. It does nothing to prevent the problem from occurring.
Q If I have a MN6/M12 car, will the GM recall re-program my PCM and affect my tuning?
A Yes; See description of recall instruction above. There are several horror stories related to this. Most folks with tunes do NOT allow the recall to be implemented.
Q Exactly how does the steering column lock mechanism work?
A The steering column lock unit consists of a 12VDC motor, a worm drive gear, a locking pin, and a micro switch which is activated by the lock pin screwing down thru a lock plate with holes or slots in it to lock your steering column.
Q Can the steering lock up while driving my car?
A There have been a few rumors of this. The only way this is possible is if the BCM should fail sending a "lock" command to your lock motor. There are some fears that the lock motor can partially retract but not all the way so that the lock pin could engage the locking plate later while driving. This is highly unlikely due to the mechanical micro-switch, which detects when the lock pin is completely retracted before sending the "unlock" signal back to the BCM.
The worm gear on the motor turns a gear on a threaded shaft that "jacks" the pin assembly in the direction determined by the motor. link was lost
[i]The second picture shows the pin/jack assembly, laid out
link was lost
Finally, the last photo shows the micro-switch that is either opened or closed by the body of the pin assembly:
link was lost
Q If I install a CLB, can the steering column lock up accidentally from vibration or shock?
A Highly unlikely; the lock pin is driven by a worm gear drive on the motor which can not move without the motor turning as well.
Q What exactly does the CLB consist of?
A A small module that plugs (in place of your Column Lock Motor) into C207 (male pin side) consisting of a 4-wire harness to your BCM. The CLB consists of a 12VDC-latching relay. Connections are:
Purple wire: from BCM = UNLOCK
Orange Wire: from BCM = LOCK
Black Wire: Ground
Green Wire: to BCM = OPEN is locked; CLOSED (grounded) is unlocked. This status line is pulled up to +12V thru a resistor inside the BCM module.
Q I still get the "Pull Key and Wait 10 Seconds" message and "Service Steering Column Lock" message? What do I do now?
A1 Sometimes the latching relay in the CLB can get out of sync sending the wrong status to your BCM. This has happened to a few folks even with the CLB installed. The CLB latching relay gets out of sync with the BCM possibly due to shock, vibration or relay contact bounce during switching which confused the BCM. The CLB does not physically know which state it should be in; it only switches from one state to the other when it receives a signal from the BCM. The BCM can be reset by pulling Fuse 23 and waiting 10 seconds.
A2 Check to make sure Fuse 25 in passenger footwell is good.
A3 Verify the black wire to your ECL or CLB is grounded (zero ohms resistance).
A5 Verify the green wire to the ECL or CLB is shorted to ground while in the "UNLOCKED" position and pulled up to +12Vdc while in the "LOCKED" position.
A6 If you get the "Pull Key and Wait 10 Seconds" message but no "Service Column Lock" message, it can sometimes be a symptom of your security system and related to your key pellet.
Q What can happen then if my CLB gets out of sync?
A Your DIC will display "Service Steering Column Lock" error message; your steering wheel will not be locked; if you own a 1997-2000 C5 that has not had the recall implemented; you should be able to drive your car normally. You must reset your DIC each time you start your car if you are annoyed with the error message. IF you have a newer C5 (2001-2004) OR you've had the recall implemented, you will NOT be able to drive your car because the fuel will be shut off at speeds above 2 mph.
Q When I purchase the CLB, what is the extra harness with the cigarette lighter plug used for?
A This is simply to help you unlock your steering column with the ignition key removed. It is used one-time only just before you install your CLB. It connects +12V to the purple wire on the Column Lock Motor to unlock your steering column. Another method is to turn on your ignition key, verify that your steering wheel is unlocked, then disconnect the wire harness to your lock motor. You will need to reset your BCM after doing this to clear the error that this will create.
Q I had the recall done and now after a few weeks my car is getting the dreaded “Service Column Lock” error message and I can’t drive it because the fuel is shut off. What should I do?
A You have the following choices: 1) return to the dealer and make them fix it; 2) A4 cars - replace or remove the Harness "K" assembly; 3) remove the recall mods and restore to original; 4)MN6/M12 cars only - go into your passenger footwell, locate the relay added by the recall mod, remove the relay altogether and bypass the circuit as described below (my choice).
Q What happens when I install an aftermarket CLB and it doesn’t work?
A You probably have the GM recall mod (mentioned above) installed on your car already. This could happen by GM installing the mod at the factory, or the recall mod was already completed by you or a previous owner.
Q How can I tell if I’ve had the recall mod?
A1 If you have an A4 car, can you turn your steering wheel freely while the ignition key is removed? If so, you probably DO have the recall mod.
A2 For all cars, you can inspect your wiring by removing your knee bolster under the driver's side. Inspect your column lock harness. If the four wires in your ECL harness are Orange, Purple, Green, Black on both sides of the connector, then you DO NOT have the recall mod installed. If you have White, Purple, Green, Black on either side of the connector, then you DO have the recall mod.
Q Why is there sometimes a conflict between the recall mod and my CLB?
A For MN6 and M12 cars, the recall mod added a second relay (different from the Harness K which is the GM version of the CLB) between your BCM and your ECL in series with the orange (LOCK) wire. This is to safeguard against a spurious glitch from ever locking your ECL while you are driving (clearly GM is paranoid now). The problem is that this second relay is causing a timing glitch, which resets your CLB immediately after it switches states. The reason it works with your stock ECL is because your ECL motor (being mechanical and slow compared to solid-state logic), is immune to these timing glitches whereas the latching relay inside your CLB sees these glitches and reacts to them.
Q For MN6/M12 cars what can I do if this situation occurs?
A Go into your passenger footwell. Remove your BCM and locate the recall mod relay, remove it and add a jumper wire between the white wire (pin 30) and the orange wire (pin 87). Note that there are two orange wires, so make sure you get the right one!
Q Can CLB modules fail?
A Yes; we have occasionally heard of a CLB failure.
Q If my CLB fails, will it damage my BCM?
A Possibly, but extremely doubtful; there have been some claims of this happening, however after personally researching it now for the last year and talking with many forum members, I have yet to see where a BCM actually experienced electrical damage. GM put fuses into their designs to protect the BCM from short circuits and failures.
Please send me comments. Thanks!
cscokd@gmail.com
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Last edited by Cscokd; 06-26-2007 at 05:57 PM. Reason: updates, photo links were lost, email address update
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,683
Likes: 144
From: Memphis Tennessee
First off, welcome to the AE club !
Don't fret this one, that's what this forum is all about.
Purchase the CLB and get someone to install it for you. Not very difficult and there is bound to be someone close by that can take care of this for you.
Stay close to us here on CF and let us help you as best we can.
Good Luck
Don't fret this one, that's what this forum is all about.
Purchase the CLB and get someone to install it for you. Not very difficult and there is bound to be someone close by that can take care of this for you.
Stay close to us here on CF and let us help you as best we can.
Good Luck
Drifting
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,515
Likes: 14
From: Gig Harbor WA
Others will join in with more info, but for now let me say that GM ended the Column Lock Recall in Feb. `08. Any repairs you need done are no longer covered by warranty.
The best thing you can do about this issue is buy a Column Lock Bypass - this can be found at most of the Corvette aftermarket dealers (Mid-America, Ecklers, West Coast, Corvettes of Houston, etc.). It costs around $50 and comes with very good detailed instructions. If you are not comfortable installing this yourself, you can probably find a CF member in your area who would install it for you. The CLB is the best peace-of-mind you can buy.
The best thing you can do about this issue is buy a Column Lock Bypass - this can be found at most of the Corvette aftermarket dealers (Mid-America, Ecklers, West Coast, Corvettes of Houston, etc.). It costs around $50 and comes with very good detailed instructions. If you are not comfortable installing this yourself, you can probably find a CF member in your area who would install it for you. The CLB is the best peace-of-mind you can buy.
Another possibility is to bring up installation at your next Vette club meeting. Don't be surprised if you get all the volunteers you can handle. (Pick the one with the most experience on the install.) 
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 5,393
Likes: 17
From: Belleville Mich.
Hi, I too have an 03, that I bought brand new. I took it in to the dealer for the column lock problem, back when they sent out the notice of the potential problem. I have never had a problem or display alert problem in this regards. A bout a year or so ago after seeing so many posts on this subject of members having problems, even after they took it in for the recall, I decided to order the CLB unit from Coevettes of Houston and installed it from the directions that were posted on the forum here. Still have never had a problem, but I have peace of mind. I would order this unit, and have some one there in your local Corvette club install it for you. Takes about an hour, from start to finish. I believe a club enthuist would be able to clear the display that you mentiond. I don't think that you will have any more problems. Good luck.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
Hi Jacks02,
Thanks so much. I read the long FAQ thread with a fine tooth comb before taking the car in yesteday hoping to be prepared to srutinize whatever the dealer svc rep reported he'd found but I'm still thinking I'm going to make the wrong choice.
Thanks so much. I read the long FAQ thread with a fine tooth comb before taking the car in yesteday hoping to be prepared to srutinize whatever the dealer svc rep reported he'd found but I'm still thinking I'm going to make the wrong choice.
Last edited by C5lady; Jan 8, 2009 at 12:39 AM.
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Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
First off, welcome to the AE club !
Don't fret this one, that's what this forum is all about.
Purchase the CLB and get someone to install it for you. Not very difficult and there is bound to be someone close by that can take care of this for you.
Stay close to us here on CF and let us help you as best we can.
Good Luck
Don't fret this one, that's what this forum is all about.
Purchase the CLB and get someone to install it for you. Not very difficult and there is bound to be someone close by that can take care of this for you.
Stay close to us here on CF and let us help you as best we can.
Good Luck
At this point my Anni is spending the night in the service bay (I hate that, she'd better be indoors as they promised) and has her column guts (wires) hanging out. If I take her from the dealership to do it myself I still have to pay them $140 for the diagnosis and I'm not sure I'd have peace of mind I'd do it right. I just moved 2 hrs north of the club I'm in and don't know any of the local club guys well enough to ask for help. Dang! this is going to cost me isn't it?. Maybe I need to try to do it myself. I'd rather learn than pay but then I have to wait for the part.
The svc rep said they reset the pin so it's not stuck in the retracted position where it was. I'm getting confused about what the vette needs at this pt.
Thanks everyone,
Michele
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
8vette7 you are the best!
I'm starting to understand it all now (how it all fits together from a historical stand pt and why strategies vary).
They did run a history and told me that the car just had the reprogramming done. I'll ask them tomorrow to print out the history and I'll check the numbers against your post.
Thank you so much! I'm still a little shaky on having a solid understanding but now think I'm making some ground on being able to talk intelligently with the svc guy.
Everyone has been so nice on this thread with their help. Thanks eveyone!
I'm starting to understand it all now (how it all fits together from a historical stand pt and why strategies vary).
They did run a history and told me that the car just had the reprogramming done. I'll ask them tomorrow to print out the history and I'll check the numbers against your post.
Thank you so much! I'm still a little shaky on having a solid understanding but now think I'm making some ground on being able to talk intelligently with the svc guy.
Everyone has been so nice on this thread with their help. Thanks eveyone!
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
Hi again 8VETTE7,
Per your suggestion, I went to
http://www.ls1howto.com/index.php?article=24
and think that's the same sight the svc rep had gone to when I was looking at his computer and he said he had researched the topic. I'm a little nervous since he said they have not done this before (how could a Chevy dealership that's been in this town for over 40 yrs not have seen this situation before? - oh well, I digress). I guess I've never done it before either so to take it on myself might be more stressfull than to have them do it and just cough up the $ (tough choice since I've been saving up $ to go to Spring Mt.)
I'm looking forward to your next post with the other info.
Thanks again for spending so much time getting me up to speed.
Michele
Per your suggestion, I went to
http://www.ls1howto.com/index.php?article=24
and think that's the same sight the svc rep had gone to when I was looking at his computer and he said he had researched the topic. I'm a little nervous since he said they have not done this before (how could a Chevy dealership that's been in this town for over 40 yrs not have seen this situation before? - oh well, I digress). I guess I've never done it before either so to take it on myself might be more stressfull than to have them do it and just cough up the $ (tough choice since I've been saving up $ to go to Spring Mt.)
I'm looking forward to your next post with the other info.
Thanks again for spending so much time getting me up to speed.
Michele
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,561
Likes: 1
From: Oakland Ca
St. Jude Donor '09
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,793
Likes: 7
From: Santa Maria Ca.
Hi C5Lady - I just got my Vette about 6 weeks ago,and the first thing I did was install a Column Lock bypass from
Corvettes of Houston- Very easy to do,only takes about 20 minutes,and works like a charm!
They come with pretty good instructions, and if you can install a Battery,I'm pretty sure you can do the CLB yourself.
You should really do it ASAP ,because if the column lock screws up on you,you're stuck (I'm pretty sure they NEVER break in the "unlocked" position)
Good luck with your situation,I'm in Santa Maria,so if I can help you in any way,let me know.
Corvettes of Houston- Very easy to do,only takes about 20 minutes,and works like a charm!
They come with pretty good instructions, and if you can install a Battery,I'm pretty sure you can do the CLB yourself.
You should really do it ASAP ,because if the column lock screws up on you,you're stuck (I'm pretty sure they NEVER break in the "unlocked" position)
Good luck with your situation,I'm in Santa Maria,so if I can help you in any way,let me know.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
Whew!, That's incredibly thorough 8VETTE7 and just what I needed to make an informed decision. I can't tell you how much I appreciate the detailed breakdown and sound advice.
Fortunately, the dealer is willing to do the CLB. I'm going in to the svc dept tomorrow AM with my new found knowledge but might PM you tomorrow if I get stumped or need more direction.
So am I correct? - It sounds like if CSP 01044 was done and if that was all, I'm entitled 04006C (not x) free of charge and should have that done. Then on top of that I should have the CLB installed which of course isn't part of the recall and I'll pay for that but the part should be about $ 50 (they said they'd let me buy my own parts and they'd install them) and the labor should only take, what about an hr?. Then that will be enough but the CLB though it has a low fail rate, might fail in the future and the gas would shut off to the car (so I could get stranded) and if I want to circumvent that I need to find someone with the tuner tool reprogram the fuel shutoff to 255 (but I can do this anytime after I get the care out of the dearlership - how much should that cost?).
Do I have it in my brain with some level of sound understanding now?
Thanks for everything!!!!
Michele
Fortunately, the dealer is willing to do the CLB. I'm going in to the svc dept tomorrow AM with my new found knowledge but might PM you tomorrow if I get stumped or need more direction.
So am I correct? - It sounds like if CSP 01044 was done and if that was all, I'm entitled 04006C (not x) free of charge and should have that done. Then on top of that I should have the CLB installed which of course isn't part of the recall and I'll pay for that but the part should be about $ 50 (they said they'd let me buy my own parts and they'd install them) and the labor should only take, what about an hr?. Then that will be enough but the CLB though it has a low fail rate, might fail in the future and the gas would shut off to the car (so I could get stranded) and if I want to circumvent that I need to find someone with the tuner tool reprogram the fuel shutoff to 255 (but I can do this anytime after I get the care out of the dearlership - how much should that cost?).
Do I have it in my brain with some level of sound understanding now?
Thanks for everything!!!!
Michele
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
Carcass,
I just sent you a PM. Are you in Vapor Trail Vettes or any local club?
I might take you up on it if you are offering to help talk me through the install (I'll do the work) but I don't have a torx T-15 tool (suppose I could go buy one though)
Thanks for the moral support in any case.
Michele
I just sent you a PM. Are you in Vapor Trail Vettes or any local club?
I might take you up on it if you are offering to help talk me through the install (I'll do the work) but I don't have a torx T-15 tool (suppose I could go buy one though)
Thanks for the moral support in any case.
Michele
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 223
Likes: 0
From: Central Coast of Calif.
Got it! Thanks so much.
I'm **** too and as a female alone in my car don't want to get stranded. So will probably have the speed reset at sometime in the near future. At this point I want to get the car safely operable out of the dealership ASAP. I'm needing my RPM fix since I haven't driven it in 3 wks. Thank you for your candid advice and willingness to be available for more dialog. I'll probably get on the CF during my lunch hr tomorrow and will have talked with the dealer in the AM so will hopefully have made some headway by then.
I so appreciate your help. Good evening,
Michele
I'm **** too and as a female alone in my car don't want to get stranded. So will probably have the speed reset at sometime in the near future. At this point I want to get the car safely operable out of the dealership ASAP. I'm needing my RPM fix since I haven't driven it in 3 wks. Thank you for your candid advice and willingness to be available for more dialog. I'll probably get on the CF during my lunch hr tomorrow and will have talked with the dealer in the AM so will hopefully have made some headway by then.
I so appreciate your help. Good evening,
Michele
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,457
Likes: 0
From: bolckow missouri
michelle another thing , is the dealership an authorized vette dealer and service shop , some are not , i found out the hard way when i had a window roll-up motor replaced , when mine only had 7500 miles on it , and they shorted out the new one
theclb is very easy to do by yourself and a t15 torx are not very expensive .
i heard someone say that they paid the stealership $600.00 to fix thiers and still had to install a CLB
good luck
oak
theclb is very easy to do by yourself and a t15 torx are not very expensive .
i heard someone say that they paid the stealership $600.00 to fix thiers and still had to install a CLB
good luck
oak
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,804
Likes: 0
From: Dallas Texas
CLB at COD
Great posts with great information.
If you are still in need of a CLB, please call me direct at we can get a CLB out to you overnight. It will arrive with very detailed directions and if you run into a problem -- call us and we will walk you through. We will be happy to do what ever we can to get you back on the road.
Todd
If you are still in need of a CLB, please call me direct at we can get a CLB out to you overnight. It will arrive with very detailed directions and if you run into a problem -- call us and we will walk you through. We will be happy to do what ever we can to get you back on the road.
Todd
Last edited by Corvettes of Dallas; Jan 8, 2009 at 02:51 PM.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 30,628
Likes: 4,620
From: Bonita Springs, Florida
The Dealer (GM) solution IS NOT reliable, or desirable.
Get the CLB kit and have it installed (NOT by the dealer), or DIY.
Here are some helpful links....
Install a Column Lock Bypass:
http://97vette.com/howto/columnlock/index.html
http://www.ls1howto.com/index.php?article=24
You can get a CLB from either of these vendors:
http://www.corvettesofhouston.com/pr...e9bf70207aef69
http://www.thunderracing.com/catalog...d=220&pcid=156
Get the CLB kit and have it installed (NOT by the dealer), or DIY.
Here are some helpful links....
Install a Column Lock Bypass:
http://97vette.com/howto/columnlock/index.html
http://www.ls1howto.com/index.php?article=24
You can get a CLB from either of these vendors:
http://www.corvettesofhouston.com/pr...e9bf70207aef69
http://www.thunderracing.com/catalog...d=220&pcid=156