Feb 20, 2015, 12:05 PM
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Steering Column Lock FAQs - please read before you post (sticky please)
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
I friggin' love you man!!!!!! That email is exactly what I needed. Nothing beats a picture of exactly what to look for. Turns out I DID have the relay, I just didn't know it when I saw it. Took it out, and jumped 87 to 30 and WALA!!!!! Car starts right up w/no problems!!!!
Kobie...I owe you a 6 pack.
I love this forum.
Kobie...I owe you a 6 pack.
I love this forum.
Many, many thanks. I'll include you in my prayers.
Ron
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 16,825
Likes: 0
From: One Particular Harbour
Cruise-In 9-10-11 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10,-'13
I believe in the Beer Fairy
I have recently purchased an 04 Z06 and have been reading through this thread and just wanted to post my take on this whole CLB situation to see if I'm reading this right. The car only has 5,000 miles on it and as far as I know, the column has never locked.
My 04 has had one of the recalls done, as i pulled the dash apart and found that one side of the ECL had orange, purple, green, and black wires while the other side had white, purple, green, and black wires.
From my understanding I want to add a CLB as soon as possible, so I ordered one from Corvettes of Houston. (It's in the mail at the moment)
While I'm installing the CLB, if I understand everything in this thread correctly, I want to disconnect the K harness?
So at this point it should be impossible for my column to lock correct?
After that, I believe that I need to disable the fuel cutoff feature by using a jumping wire between an orange and a white wire on the recall relay in the passenger footwell. I have little electrical experience, so if someone could tell me how to do this, it would be really helpful. Is it as simple as sticking a wire of similar guage in with the white wire and the orange wire??? Also, which orange wire since there are two and i don't have a wiring diagram to know which pin is pin 87?
So after all this, Is my car safe from the column lock problem?
I've also read about finding a tuner shop with an HP Tuner to have them turn off the column lock and set the fuel shutoff to 200mph. Is this necesarry if you jump the recall relay with the instructions above? Or is this just extra insurance to stop the column lock from happening?
Sorry for the long post and lots of questions, I just wanted to make sure that I understand everything and that it doesn't happen to me!
So if anyone can answer these questions I'd really appreciate it, Thanks.
My 04 has had one of the recalls done, as i pulled the dash apart and found that one side of the ECL had orange, purple, green, and black wires while the other side had white, purple, green, and black wires.
From my understanding I want to add a CLB as soon as possible, so I ordered one from Corvettes of Houston. (It's in the mail at the moment)
While I'm installing the CLB, if I understand everything in this thread correctly, I want to disconnect the K harness?
So at this point it should be impossible for my column to lock correct?
After that, I believe that I need to disable the fuel cutoff feature by using a jumping wire between an orange and a white wire on the recall relay in the passenger footwell. I have little electrical experience, so if someone could tell me how to do this, it would be really helpful. Is it as simple as sticking a wire of similar guage in with the white wire and the orange wire??? Also, which orange wire since there are two and i don't have a wiring diagram to know which pin is pin 87?
So after all this, Is my car safe from the column lock problem?
I've also read about finding a tuner shop with an HP Tuner to have them turn off the column lock and set the fuel shutoff to 200mph. Is this necesarry if you jump the recall relay with the instructions above? Or is this just extra insurance to stop the column lock from happening?
Sorry for the long post and lots of questions, I just wanted to make sure that I understand everything and that it doesn't happen to me!
So if anyone can answer these questions I'd really appreciate it, Thanks.
Because I love to beat a dead horse.......does that wiring fix take care of the pull key, wait 10 message and fuel cutoff? I've installed the CLB, installed a new batt, cleaned the key chip, and I've been getting the pull key message for nearly a year now. I'm absolutely sick and fed up with it.
9 times out of 10 that I start my car I get this, and sometimes I don't even get the message, but the car just dies anyway.
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 16,825
Likes: 0
From: One Particular Harbour
Cruise-In 9-10-11 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10,-'13
I believe in the Beer Fairy
Thanks 8VETTE7, will see if I can find someone with HP I can 'borrow', or just go ahead and rebuild.
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
I have a few comments to share with those of you who visit this post. Most of you are like me. We love our 'vettes and just cannot rest knowing there is a mechanical problem. I have a 2002 Z06 that has developed the "pull key" "steering wheel locked" syndrom. From the posts on this site I have learned much and have even educated the service manager to some degree at the Corvette specialist Chevy dealer with whom I deal.
I am now in a major discussion with the Customer Service Division of Chevrolet over my problem. They deny that my Corvette is affected by Recall Bulletin No. (RBN) 04006C dated February 2006. My car was serviced under RBN 04006B which was clearly and unequivocally replaced by RBN 04006C. In fact the latter states that
RBN 04006C "replaces Bulletin 04006B, issued November 2004". It also states: "All copies of Bulletin 04006B should be destroyed". RBN 04006C further states: "Dealers are to remove the column lock plate...After this service correction, the steering column will no longer lock when the key is removed.". Various Corvette VINs for years 1997-2004 are listed in the bulletin.
I quoted this to the Customer Service Rep at GM with whom I spoke and I was told that the recall service under RBN 04006B was performed on my Corvette in August 2005, remember that RBN came out in Nov. 2004 and the replacement RBN 04006C came out in 2006, and since the August 2005 bulletin "fixed" the problem RBN 04006C does not apply to my vehicle. Well, I said, why is my VIN listed as one of the Corvette's affected? Answer: That only pertains to Corvettes that hadn't gone through any of the prior recall fixes. Ha? Excuse me while I take the cabbage leaf from my shoulder.
I can't believe how prevalent this issue seems to be and how many of us, Corvette lovers, are being deprived of the enjoyment and pleasure driving our vehicles gives us. I am wondering if we shouldn't initiate a class action against GM. I didn't feel this adversarial until my service manager (who is a straight shooter and very customer oriented) had contacted GM regarding the new part referred to in one of the posts, namely Part No. 88965331 (Lock 2.195) which apparently costs GM $250 versus the $45 for the K Harness. The Corvette Division engineers were snide and confrontational when asked about the part number and its potential to cure the locked steering column problem. They became argumentative and wouldn't give the service manager or his Corvette Tech any information.
I am now ready to fight. With the dollars we have invested in our Corvettes, one would think that GM would at least have the courage to admit they have screwed up. Granted, they are living from hand to mouth these days and many uncertainties face them, but have they heard about seeking a judicial remedy for negligence and corporate dishonesty?
Let's band together with a writing campaign threatening a class action law suit and if they continue to snub us and ignore our problems let's take them to Federal Court! We should do some research and get one address and one individual, preferably someone of authority, and literally deluge that person with mail and our unified efforts.
Let's Roll!
Ron
I am now in a major discussion with the Customer Service Division of Chevrolet over my problem. They deny that my Corvette is affected by Recall Bulletin No. (RBN) 04006C dated February 2006. My car was serviced under RBN 04006B which was clearly and unequivocally replaced by RBN 04006C. In fact the latter states that
RBN 04006C "replaces Bulletin 04006B, issued November 2004". It also states: "All copies of Bulletin 04006B should be destroyed". RBN 04006C further states: "Dealers are to remove the column lock plate...After this service correction, the steering column will no longer lock when the key is removed.". Various Corvette VINs for years 1997-2004 are listed in the bulletin.
I quoted this to the Customer Service Rep at GM with whom I spoke and I was told that the recall service under RBN 04006B was performed on my Corvette in August 2005, remember that RBN came out in Nov. 2004 and the replacement RBN 04006C came out in 2006, and since the August 2005 bulletin "fixed" the problem RBN 04006C does not apply to my vehicle. Well, I said, why is my VIN listed as one of the Corvette's affected? Answer: That only pertains to Corvettes that hadn't gone through any of the prior recall fixes. Ha? Excuse me while I take the cabbage leaf from my shoulder.
I can't believe how prevalent this issue seems to be and how many of us, Corvette lovers, are being deprived of the enjoyment and pleasure driving our vehicles gives us. I am wondering if we shouldn't initiate a class action against GM. I didn't feel this adversarial until my service manager (who is a straight shooter and very customer oriented) had contacted GM regarding the new part referred to in one of the posts, namely Part No. 88965331 (Lock 2.195) which apparently costs GM $250 versus the $45 for the K Harness. The Corvette Division engineers were snide and confrontational when asked about the part number and its potential to cure the locked steering column problem. They became argumentative and wouldn't give the service manager or his Corvette Tech any information.
I am now ready to fight. With the dollars we have invested in our Corvettes, one would think that GM would at least have the courage to admit they have screwed up. Granted, they are living from hand to mouth these days and many uncertainties face them, but have they heard about seeking a judicial remedy for negligence and corporate dishonesty?
Let's band together with a writing campaign threatening a class action law suit and if they continue to snub us and ignore our problems let's take them to Federal Court! We should do some research and get one address and one individual, preferably someone of authority, and literally deluge that person with mail and our unified efforts.
Let's Roll!
Ron
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
From: Fernandina Beach FL
I don't want to ask a question that might have been brought up before, but I also don't want to wade through 48 PAGES, so here goes:
I have a '99 manual, and today received the "Service Column Lock" warning. I have NOT had the column lock or anything, and the car started just fine, so as of right now, I have not noticed any problems.
I plan on checking my car to see if it has had the recall (I have no idea) as soon as it stops raining outside.
However....this might seem like a noob question, but how do I tell what kind of C5 I have? I've seen a lot of "A4" and "A5" stuff thrown around, and I honestly have no idea how I would even know. From the original post, what kind of C5 I have affects how the problem is addressed, if indeed the recall has been performed, and therefore what problems I might expect in the future.
Thanks!
-Rog
I have a '99 manual, and today received the "Service Column Lock" warning. I have NOT had the column lock or anything, and the car started just fine, so as of right now, I have not noticed any problems.
I plan on checking my car to see if it has had the recall (I have no idea) as soon as it stops raining outside.
However....this might seem like a noob question, but how do I tell what kind of C5 I have? I've seen a lot of "A4" and "A5" stuff thrown around, and I honestly have no idea how I would even know. From the original post, what kind of C5 I have affects how the problem is addressed, if indeed the recall has been performed, and therefore what problems I might expect in the future.
Thanks!
-Rog
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
From: Fernandina Beach FL
Anyone with a tuner in/near Charleston, SC? It looks like I've had the service done, but that won't stop my car from shutting itself off if the PCM gets confused. I'd like to get the shutoff set higher, so I don't have to worry about it.
-Rog
-Rog
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,333
Likes: 32
From: cruising between USA and Canada... SAVE THE WAVE!
I HAVE READ the 48 pages
I have a question:
will I hear the mechanical 2 second buzz or whine AFTER I install a CLB? or does the CLB stop me from hearing that at all?
I've recently had a CLB put in and I STILL hear the "bzzzzzzzt" for a second or two when I put the key in and when I shut the car off...
am I wrong here?
will I hear the mechanical 2 second buzz or whine AFTER I install a CLB? or does the CLB stop me from hearing that at all?
I've recently had a CLB put in and I STILL hear the "bzzzzzzzt" for a second or two when I put the key in and when I shut the car off...
am I wrong here?
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Advanced
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 66
Likes: 0
From: Saugus CA
Column lock
Hi Your thread is very helpfull and I sure appreciate the time you put into it, if I read it correctly I don't have to worry, my car is a 2003 6 speed and only need reprograming is that correct?
Should I check out what was done to my car with GM and my vin to be sure? Thanks Ron
Should I check out what was done to my car with GM and my vin to be sure? Thanks Ron
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.
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:
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:
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
- 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
Racer
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 319
Likes: 1
From: Cincinnati OH
I've had the dreaded column lockup issue recently and the car was towed back to the chevy dealer. Now the dealer says that flashing the PCM has not solved the problem and have been working with their tech support for some time for a solution. Apparently this car has been through this many times according to their history. Any ideas what might be causing them not to be able to flash the PCM?
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 43
Likes: 3
From: Providence ri
clb bypass CLB c5 CORVETTE column lock those bypass g whizz
so yea... i installed the CLB a few months back... but every so often I will still get the 10 second notice along with the 2mph stall, but everytime it does it, I just clear the screen, and wait 10 seconds and it's fine, soo... Is there anything more I can do to fix this? or am I just going to have to suck it up and hope that I don't have a hot hunnie in the car the next time that it happens?
-Andrew
AndrewMonda@gmail.com
-Andrew
AndrewMonda@gmail.com
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 4,813
Likes: 2
From: We cant stop here... this is bat country
If somebody with some good knowledge on this topic wouldn't mind commenting on my thread here I'd appreciate it.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...o-hear-of.html
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...o-hear-of.html
Racer
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 348
Likes: 1
From: Sacramento CA
I tried disconnecting the ECL from the BCM, but I still got the "service column lock" error. The fuel cutout was disabled, so I could still drive, but I thought if the ECL was set to "not fitted" with HP Tuners, that it should not care if the ECL was actually plugged in. What gives?
My ECL was physically disabled by the recall, so my wheel never locks.
In any case, I think anyone that has actually had their column lock physically disabled by the recall, such that their wheel cannot ever lock, should go ahead and get someone with HP Tuners to disable the fuel cutoff, so even if their harness K or CLB fails, they will not be stranded.
My ECL was physically disabled by the recall, so my wheel never locks.
In any case, I think anyone that has actually had their column lock physically disabled by the recall, such that their wheel cannot ever lock, should go ahead and get someone with HP Tuners to disable the fuel cutoff, so even if their harness K or CLB fails, they will not be stranded.
I finally got my PCM flashed with the column lock as "not fitted" and "fuel cutoff" at 255mph. My column lock still actuates but if it malfunctions it doesn't shut off the car anymore after 2mph. Isn't a big deal for me because I had the latest recall done so it can never lock.
I would say if you have the opportunity have your PCM flashed so the fuel cutoff at 2mph is disabled, that way if the recall harness or CLB fails you can still drive. Of course only do this if you have the dummy CL installed.
So in summary, have the latest CL recall performed on your car and then have someone with HP tuners flash your PCM with the fuel shutoff at 255mph. This is a 100% solution for not getting stranded by the POS CL, however it is still possible to get the "pull key wait 10 seconds" meassage but you will still be able to drive
Racer
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 348
Likes: 1
From: Sacramento CA
Racer
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 283
Likes: 41
From: Viera FL
I am back again with the problem. I have a 2000 A4 Vert.
I had the recall done several years ago, they took out the plate and installed the k harness. All was good.
A while after the recall I had the problem again, I read the posts and found the removing the k harness would solve the problem. Was good for a couple of years.
Several months ago received the pull key message and then column lock message. Re read the posts again and finally took out my My Hypertech tuner and put the car back to factory defaults and then reloaded the Hypertech mods and the car was fine. I still had the Service Column Lock message but I was able to drive the car, no stalling at 2mph.
Then this weekend I got the 10 sec message and fuel cutoff. Like I have mentioned I tried all the workarounds. No k harness, new battery as when I took it up to be tested it was failing, so what the hell I bought a new one. I used the Hypertech again set it to factory defaults, still have the cutoff. Reloaded the Hypertech advanced mods and still have the cutoff. So I guess I am asking will the CLB from Corvettes of Houston solve the error message and the fuel cutoff?
I had the recall done several years ago, they took out the plate and installed the k harness. All was good.
A while after the recall I had the problem again, I read the posts and found the removing the k harness would solve the problem. Was good for a couple of years.
Several months ago received the pull key message and then column lock message. Re read the posts again and finally took out my My Hypertech tuner and put the car back to factory defaults and then reloaded the Hypertech mods and the car was fine. I still had the Service Column Lock message but I was able to drive the car, no stalling at 2mph.
Then this weekend I got the 10 sec message and fuel cutoff. Like I have mentioned I tried all the workarounds. No k harness, new battery as when I took it up to be tested it was failing, so what the hell I bought a new one. I used the Hypertech again set it to factory defaults, still have the cutoff. Reloaded the Hypertech advanced mods and still have the cutoff. So I guess I am asking will the CLB from Corvettes of Houston solve the error message and the fuel cutoff?
Racer
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 348
Likes: 1
From: Sacramento CA
good to hear, I don't understand why GM won't remove that stupid 2mph fuel cutoff when they install the dummy lock plate. I mean it's not as if the column could actually lock once they do the recall... Ha unless you go to a dealer like mine and they don't do the work like they did to me the first go around
Racer
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 348
Likes: 1
From: Sacramento CA
What you have to understand is that the GM tool of choice, Tech II does NOT have the ability to mess with the fuel shutoff value. Tech II has very limited capability to set individual parameters. They don't want technicians that don't know what they are doing messing around with parameters that could get GM in more trouble. Hence GM would have to create a new PCM load that had the shutoff speed set high and have the technicians re-flash the PCM with it when they remove the lock ring. Would cost them more than they want to spend plus open up a hole where a technician could that load to reflash a PCM on a car that still had the lock ring installed. Besides, the Stealers would loose another source of income for this GM FUBAR called column lock on the C5.