Feb 20, 2015, 12:05 PM
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Steering Column Lock FAQs - please read before you post (sticky please)
Cruising
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Montgomery Texas
Absolutely!!!
With it installed you will NEVER have the problem show up. You don't want to be in the shady part of town getting gas in the wee hours and not be able to start your car.
Keeping the car on a Battery Tender type trickle charger is a good thing to do unless yours is a daily driver. If you do a search you will also find a list of suggested batteries for your car. Not every battery is the same. I have an AGM battery so there is less chance of acid leaking onto the precious wires under the battery tray. This is another issue to be wary of.
Get that LMC5 installed, and leave it there.
With it installed you will NEVER have the problem show up. You don't want to be in the shady part of town getting gas in the wee hours and not be able to start your car.
Keeping the car on a Battery Tender type trickle charger is a good thing to do unless yours is a daily driver. If you do a search you will also find a list of suggested batteries for your car. Not every battery is the same. I have an AGM battery so there is less chance of acid leaking onto the precious wires under the battery tray. This is another issue to be wary of.
Get that LMC5 installed, and leave it there.
Cruising
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Montgomery Texas
I must have something drawing down the Battery because it came up again on DIC, Getting LMC5 tomorrow and after that even if battery is low but enough to start car, there should not be an issue, Correct?
Instructor
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 151
Likes: 3
From: Pennsylvania
There is a continuous parasitic draw on the battery due to all the electronics in the car, but it should not drain a good battery that fast. You might need to get a new AGM battery. Do a search on c5 battery and you'll find lots of threads on the subject.
I have both my corvettes on battery maintainers. (Just in case.)
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 67
Likes: 0
From: Westlake Village CA
Just wanted to chime in.
I got the "Service Column Lock" message yesterday. I haven't been driving my car regularly like I usually do and the Die Hard in it is just over 4 years old. Starts just fine, but upon getting the message I started to research it here on the forum and tried all the easy remedies with charging the battery and cleaning the battery terminals being last. Well, that did the trick.
I still ordered the LMC5 and will install it next week because I don't want to deal with this issue again. The first time it happened was just four months after I bought the car 4 1/2 years ago and the stealership charged over $600 to fix it. It's obviously had the recall done because the wheel doesn't lock at all and the fuel cut off is set at 2mph.
When I got the message, my stomach sank. Thank god for this forum and the countless posts surrounding this problem. I was about to have it towed to the stealership again and I'm so glad I did some research this time. Thanks to all who have contributed to this issue!
I got the "Service Column Lock" message yesterday. I haven't been driving my car regularly like I usually do and the Die Hard in it is just over 4 years old. Starts just fine, but upon getting the message I started to research it here on the forum and tried all the easy remedies with charging the battery and cleaning the battery terminals being last. Well, that did the trick.
I still ordered the LMC5 and will install it next week because I don't want to deal with this issue again. The first time it happened was just four months after I bought the car 4 1/2 years ago and the stealership charged over $600 to fix it. It's obviously had the recall done because the wheel doesn't lock at all and the fuel cut off is set at 2mph.
When I got the message, my stomach sank. Thank god for this forum and the countless posts surrounding this problem. I was about to have it towed to the stealership again and I'm so glad I did some research this time. Thanks to all who have contributed to this issue!
Cruising
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Montgomery Texas
Received the LMC5 in the mail yesterday, took about 25 minutes to install, due to it was hot as H*ll, Easy Instructions and back and running, Thanks to all and Vette7 I copied that list and will look at it this weekend.
Racer
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 499
Likes: 63
From: Arkansas
Questions Now,, have 2 C'5's
Okay, so I did read many pages from the being of this Great post, and then skipped to the last page. Being an Electronic Engineer who does all of his Auto repairs and maintenance, now I have concerns and questions.
I have 2 C5's Corvettes,
My 98 Convert IPC has had the recall programming, I have all of the service records, and the column bypass kit installed. The column does not lock with the key removed, nor have I ever had the column lock.
The 04 FRC ZO6 Le Mans, does not have the recall programming nor a column bypass kit installed. The column does indeed lock with the key is removed. No issues Yet....
Obviously the 04 need the column bypass kit installed asap. Any specific suggestions or ???
BUT, my concern is "Can or Will The Steering Column even be able to lock up ???
I think that have read that the answer is YES.
I've never read a complete evaluation re the dc motor drive and gear system nor personally disassembled a working assembly, that could change,, Now I'm going to lock for a C5 column, can't tolerate not knowing exactly what's inside.
Anyone read or have a copy of the motor drive system ??
The idea of the Steering locking up while driving, well - There are not enough words to describe. After reading many posts, I'm more concerned than even.
All this so Corvette could have a Ignition Key on the Dash hasn't worked out so well. That's not going to stop me from owning Corvette(s), We have three, all different - only the 04 is completely original. Greatest Sports Car ever !!
So,
Has anyone removed a steering column lock ring (plate?) and what is involved ?? IE time,,, tools,,,, frustration level,,,,,, valid procedure
And, Why is it that the Manual 6 speed trans have more problems with this steering column lock system ??
Thanks, fantastic reading
Michael
I have 2 C5's Corvettes,
My 98 Convert IPC has had the recall programming, I have all of the service records, and the column bypass kit installed. The column does not lock with the key removed, nor have I ever had the column lock.
The 04 FRC ZO6 Le Mans, does not have the recall programming nor a column bypass kit installed. The column does indeed lock with the key is removed. No issues Yet....
Obviously the 04 need the column bypass kit installed asap. Any specific suggestions or ???
BUT, my concern is "Can or Will The Steering Column even be able to lock up ???
I think that have read that the answer is YES.
I've never read a complete evaluation re the dc motor drive and gear system nor personally disassembled a working assembly, that could change,, Now I'm going to lock for a C5 column, can't tolerate not knowing exactly what's inside.
Anyone read or have a copy of the motor drive system ??
The idea of the Steering locking up while driving, well - There are not enough words to describe. After reading many posts, I'm more concerned than even.
All this so Corvette could have a Ignition Key on the Dash hasn't worked out so well. That's not going to stop me from owning Corvette(s), We have three, all different - only the 04 is completely original. Greatest Sports Car ever !!
So,
Has anyone removed a steering column lock ring (plate?) and what is involved ?? IE time,,, tools,,,, frustration level,,,,,, valid procedure
And, Why is it that the Manual 6 speed trans have more problems with this steering column lock system ??
Thanks, fantastic reading
Michael
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 69
Likes: 1
From: Potosi Mo
I've had my 2003 manual for 2 years and no problems with this issue but how do I check to see if the bypass was installed by the previous owner? I see the info on what can be checked if it was a recall fix but what if he bought the steering lock bypass kit?
Thanks,
Thanks,
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3rd Gear
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Athens GA
Just completed the LMC5 installation !! Worked perfect!
Does the column lock with NO key in the ignition? If yes then NO bypass is installed. You should get and install an LMC5. 
If NO then possibly a bypass has been installed or possibly variation 04006C of the GM Column Lock Service was done. 04006C replaced the lock plate with a small diameter lock plate that does NOT intercept the lock pin so the column will not lock. You can check the GMVIS for the vehicle and if column lock service was done to the car AFTER Feb 2006 then most likely 04006C was done and you really should consider installing an LMC5 as the GM K Harness installed as part of 04006C WILL fail subjecting you to the 2mph fuel shutoff..
If the car does NOT have 04006C and the column is unlocked with no key in the ignition then either a CLB or LMC5 has been installed. A CLB is difficult to check for because you have to drop the drivers side knee volster to see if it is installed. An LMC5 has only been around a bout 2 1/2 years or so but is easy to recognise. Behind the toe kick in the passenger foot well look for it. Here is a link to the website that sells the product and you can see what it looks like:
http://www.complianceparts.com/lmc5ataglance.html
If NO then possibly a bypass has been installed or possibly variation 04006C of the GM Column Lock Service was done. 04006C replaced the lock plate with a small diameter lock plate that does NOT intercept the lock pin so the column will not lock. You can check the GMVIS for the vehicle and if column lock service was done to the car AFTER Feb 2006 then most likely 04006C was done and you really should consider installing an LMC5 as the GM K Harness installed as part of 04006C WILL fail subjecting you to the 2mph fuel shutoff..
If the car does NOT have 04006C and the column is unlocked with no key in the ignition then either a CLB or LMC5 has been installed. A CLB is difficult to check for because you have to drop the drivers side knee volster to see if it is installed. An LMC5 has only been around a bout 2 1/2 years or so but is easy to recognise. Behind the toe kick in the passenger foot well look for it. Here is a link to the website that sells the product and you can see what it looks like:
http://www.complianceparts.com/lmc5ataglance.html
The LMC5 module was $40, plus the Unlocker option was only $6. VERY detailed directions come with it and there are three very good videos on Youtube. Sooooo much better than having the car towed and having to go through the agony of working with a local dealer. GREAT product, GREAT support and confidence that the issue is resolved forever for a grand total of $46. Amazing
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 137
Likes: 22
From: Panther City Texas
Profile says the car is a 99 so it doesn't matter whether it is auto trans or manual it is subject to the GM column lock FUBAR.
I suggest that you google "compliance parts" and read about the LMC5. Cost is about $40 plus shipping. Order and install it. Save the instructions in case you need to do the "brown wire mod" to avoid the "Pull Key..." message you can perform it.
I would NOT worry about what has been done by previous owners relative to the column lock. The big advantage to the LMC5 over the Column Lock Bypass (CLB) is that you do NOT have to worry what recall service has been done nor what other owners may have done/tried. The LMC5 abandons all factory and recall wiring and connects right at the BCM in the passenger foot well. You might want to check and see if there is already an LMC5 installed. Look at the picture on the compliance parts web site and then remove the passenger carpet mat and lift the toe kick at the end of the passenger foot well and check for the presence of the LMC5. If not installed then order one and install it. If already installed then put the toe kick and carpet mat back in place and drive knowing you will never be stranded by the column lock system.
I suggest that you google "compliance parts" and read about the LMC5. Cost is about $40 plus shipping. Order and install it. Save the instructions in case you need to do the "brown wire mod" to avoid the "Pull Key..." message you can perform it.
I would NOT worry about what has been done by previous owners relative to the column lock. The big advantage to the LMC5 over the Column Lock Bypass (CLB) is that you do NOT have to worry what recall service has been done nor what other owners may have done/tried. The LMC5 abandons all factory and recall wiring and connects right at the BCM in the passenger foot well. You might want to check and see if there is already an LMC5 installed. Look at the picture on the compliance parts web site and then remove the passenger carpet mat and lift the toe kick at the end of the passenger foot well and check for the presence of the LMC5. If not installed then order one and install it. If already installed then put the toe kick and carpet mat back in place and drive knowing you will never be stranded by the column lock system.
Advanced
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 74
Likes: 0
From: Leesburg, VA
Mine was a battery issue
After leaving my car hood open while cleaning and radio on - upon starting I got the wait 10 seconds, then service column. I've had both GM mods.
Realized my ACDelco battery was pushing 9 years old!!! yikes.. Charged it and issue went away. Off to buy a new battery and get the LMC5 anyways.
##### Stand corrected.. new battery -still column lock. Battery at terminal shows 12.6, in car on display shows 11.6v, something is sucking me down. no codes showing.
Realized my ACDelco battery was pushing 9 years old!!! yikes.. Charged it and issue went away. Off to buy a new battery and get the LMC5 anyways.
##### Stand corrected.. new battery -still column lock. Battery at terminal shows 12.6, in car on display shows 11.6v, something is sucking me down. no codes showing.
Last edited by billdance; Sep 12, 2015 at 05:43 PM. Reason: Redo
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 52
Likes: 2
From: Montreal, QC, Canada
This AM, got the "withdraw key, wait 10 seconds" message, before or after the 5 kph stall issue.
After 10 sec., drove car around the block and put it back into the garage. Did not feel
confident enough to continue. So, here goes:
If the steering wheel is still not locked, will install the LCM5 cable (have one).
If problem goes away, should I consider ordering this: Corvette Column Lock Bypass ?
If memory serves me correctly, a factory recall has been done (not by me).
Any help appreciated!
After 10 sec., drove car around the block and put it back into the garage. Did not feel
confident enough to continue. So, here goes:
If the steering wheel is still not locked, will install the LCM5 cable (have one).
If problem goes away, should I consider ordering this: Corvette Column Lock Bypass ?
If memory serves me correctly, a factory recall has been done (not by me).
Any help appreciated!
Instructor
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 195
Likes: 0
From: Fergusonville/Bristol Pa.
Curious 8VETTE7, why wouldn't you install a CLB? I had the column lock problem, picked one up from a forum member, installed, now no problem. Is it prone to failure?
Originally Posted by 8VETTE7;1590580554 would [COLOR="Blue"
NOT[/COLOR] install a Column Lock Bypass (CLB).
How old s the LMC5? Do the instructions on page 2 describe an optional "brown wire mod"?
If yes, then install it and if you begin getting the "pull Key...." message then do the brown wire mod.
Have you checked your battery? Low or bad battery or loose or corroded battery cables, including at the starter, are the MOST COMMON cause of the column lock symptoms. Measure the voltage across the battery posts using a digital multi meter with the neg battery cable disconnected.. Voltage MUST be greater than 12.5. If it is not the battery is the cause of your symptoms. Needs to be fully charged or replaced.
How old s the LMC5? Do the instructions on page 2 describe an optional "brown wire mod"?
If yes, then install it and if you begin getting the "pull Key...." message then do the brown wire mod.
Have you checked your battery? Low or bad battery or loose or corroded battery cables, including at the starter, are the MOST COMMON cause of the column lock symptoms. Measure the voltage across the battery posts using a digital multi meter with the neg battery cable disconnected.. Voltage MUST be greater than 12.5. If it is not the battery is the cause of your symptoms. Needs to be fully charged or replaced.
Last edited by soondg; Sep 27, 2015 at 05:10 PM.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 52
Likes: 2
From: Montreal, QC, Canada
Hi 8VETTE7,
Ok, I have the brown wire mode; so I'm good to go install the LCM5 unless, of course, the steering wheel locks with key withdrawn, so possible complications.
Ok, I have the brown wire mode; so I'm good to go install the LCM5 unless, of course, the steering wheel locks with key withdrawn, so possible complications.
I would NOT install a Column Lock Bypass (CLB).
How old s the LMC5? Do the instructions on page 2 describe an optional "brown wire mod"?
If yes, then install it and if you begin getting the "pull Key...." message then do the brown wire mod.
Have you checked your battery? Low or bad battery or loose or corroded battery cables, including at the starter, are the MOST COMMON cause of the column lock symptoms. Measure the voltage across the battery posts using a digital multi meter with the neg battery cable disconnected.. Voltage MUST be greater than 12.5. If it is not the battery is the cause of your symptoms. Needs to be fully charged or replaced.
How old s the LMC5? Do the instructions on page 2 describe an optional "brown wire mod"?
If yes, then install it and if you begin getting the "pull Key...." message then do the brown wire mod.
Have you checked your battery? Low or bad battery or loose or corroded battery cables, including at the starter, are the MOST COMMON cause of the column lock symptoms. Measure the voltage across the battery posts using a digital multi meter with the neg battery cable disconnected.. Voltage MUST be greater than 12.5. If it is not the battery is the cause of your symptoms. Needs to be fully charged or replaced.
Instructor
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 195
Likes: 0
From: Fergusonville/Bristol Pa.
Thanks for the response and explanation. I believe I may have went with the LMC5 if the CLB hadn't come along at a really reasonable price. Now if I can only get my computer to reset so I can pass emissions in Pa. 
. Darn I love my Vette.
. Darn I love my Vette. Your install may have gone smoothly but depending upon the year of the C5 and which previous dealer column lock services have been done to the car, MANY do NOT go smoothly. To make a CLB work correctly you have to identify what previous recall services have been done to the car and undo or bypass those. I have helped many hundreds of Forum members install a CLB and some went easily and others were not fun.
The LMC5 is UNLIKE the CLB in that it installs right at the BCM and abandons any and all recall service mods that have been done. You don't need to know what has been done previously. It doesn't require dropping the drivers side knee bolster to install. It is a little less expensive than the CLB and when needed has the absolute best vendor support you will ever find for a C5 aftermarket product. Try getting that from a CLB vendor......
I'm not against the CLB as I have one installed in my car but that is only because the LMC5 was not around in 2008.
The LMC5 is UNLIKE the CLB in that it installs right at the BCM and abandons any and all recall service mods that have been done. You don't need to know what has been done previously. It doesn't require dropping the drivers side knee bolster to install. It is a little less expensive than the CLB and when needed has the absolute best vendor support you will ever find for a C5 aftermarket product. Try getting that from a CLB vendor......
I'm not against the CLB as I have one installed in my car but that is only because the LMC5 was not around in 2008.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 52
Likes: 2
From: Montreal, QC, Canada
Yes, had to unplug fuse #23, etc.
Comments:
1. lost the special nut that anchors the negative terminal - should be
able to buy one (10mm) at an auto parts store
2. Swiss army knife has a flat little lever thingy without
which I could not detach the larger pink wire plug/connector
3. fuse box has extremely small writing, and I can't be 100% sure
if the fuse went in the right side facing; location should be ok, but
easy to confuse it with another as I did.
4. disconnected the relay in step 2A but it took some thinking
Tomorrow: tackle step 3 if not too tired after work day; already have questions, but they can wait.
PS: battery voltage = 12.43
Comments:
1. lost the special nut that anchors the negative terminal - should be
able to buy one (10mm) at an auto parts store
2. Swiss army knife has a flat little lever thingy without
which I could not detach the larger pink wire plug/connector
3. fuse box has extremely small writing, and I can't be 100% sure
if the fuse went in the right side facing; location should be ok, but
easy to confuse it with another as I did.
4. disconnected the relay in step 2A but it took some thinking
Tomorrow: tackle step 3 if not too tired after work day; already have questions, but they can wait.
PS: battery voltage = 12.43
That is normal operation of the column lock system on the manual trans C5. It should NOT be a problem for installing the LMC5. Read through the instructions carefully.
The problem is if you CANNOT get the column to unlock. I am assuming yours unlocks when you insert the key and try to start the car...
The problem is if you CANNOT get the column to unlock. I am assuming yours unlocks when you insert the key and try to start the car...
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 5,497
Likes: 55
From: Jupiter, FL
Ok.. I'm back in a C5.. Got a 98 conv A4. No column lock recalls done. I got the dreaded column lock.... I was able to unlock it by getting aggressive with the steering wheel. I ordered and installed a CLB with no luck. It would just lock the column every turn key and jumper did nothing. So what should I do next? I can take it to the dealer for the recall as it is still open. Would the LMC5 be a better option? Either way the column lock has happened now 5 times in about 2 weeks (100 miles of driving??). I can muscle it unlocked, but the wife will be driving this more than I once I get it fixed... Any help is appreciated!!!