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I have a couple of questions about C5s. Apparently the column lock issue is a widespread problem. I read the sticky note here at C5 Gen and followed the links talking about the column lock issue. The problem is most of those threads are 3-5 years old. What is the current status of this problem? Has there been a wide spread fix? Apparently the Auto-fix is/has been successful, what about the Manual trans cars? If one experiences the problem will Chevy fix it (under a recall) on older cars (01-02) or is this owner responsibility?
How many here have experienced it and what have you done to alleviate the problem? Please respond with year and transmission type and approximate mileage.
Also if you have had the problem and had it fixed, did you do the work yourself to fix it or did you take it somewhere?
Going this afternoon to drive an 01 (manual) and 02 (auto) and would like to be able to be objective about driving both cars. They are similarly equipped, mileage (about 30k), and price.
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The dealer installed fix has not proven to be a reliable fix. And if you have to get it fixed again, chances are it will be on your dime (and it's not cheap).
Best bet is the purchase a $50 or so column lock bypass and install it. You can do this yourself - it's easy and it does fix the problem. Forum vendors Corvettes of Houston or Thunder Racing sell the CLB.
The dealer installed fix has not proven to be a reliable fix. And if you have to get it fixed again, chances are it will be on your dime (and it's not cheap).
Best bet is the purchase a $50 or so column lock bypass and install it. You can do this yourself - it's easy and it does fix the problem. Forum vendors Corvettes of Houston or Thunder Racing sell the CLB.
Just to let you know, I got back a little while ago after test driving the 01 and the 02. This is my first experience with driving a C5... they are a very nice machine, very different than my 94. I actually think I like the automatic better (the 02). Maybe I'm getting old, but driving the 6 speed in city traffic got old pretty fast.
I told them where I thought we ought to be, so we will wait and see what happens. If we get much further I'll have them check the VIN for recalls. but it looks like if/when I buy, I'll do some checking on the aftermarket CLB.