Column Lock Question?
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Column Lock Question?
What would happen if you just unplugged the CL actuator after it goes to the unlocked position? Anybody tried this? Any chance that it would just throw a code without affecting operation of the car?
Just curious, I've read all the CL threads and don't recall seeing that anyone has tried this or indicated what the results might be.
It seems that the sensor circuit would indicate that it is unlocked and not cause the fuel cutoff senerio. Not sure about the "pull key & wait".
Opinions, input, enlightenment?
Maybe I'll try it if nobody else has.
I have a '98 A4 that has never had any column lock issue; but with all the talk it is always in the back of my mind.
Just curious, I've read all the CL threads and don't recall seeing that anyone has tried this or indicated what the results might be.
It seems that the sensor circuit would indicate that it is unlocked and not cause the fuel cutoff senerio. Not sure about the "pull key & wait".
Opinions, input, enlightenment?
Maybe I'll try it if nobody else has.
I have a '98 A4 that has never had any column lock issue; but with all the talk it is always in the back of my mind.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Longview Texas
Not absolutely sure on a '98 model, but my guess is that if the actuator is out of the circuit, you will will get an error message, and the fuel may be shutoff.
On newer models, if the BCM determines the actuator is in the locked position, OR cannot determine which postion the actuator is in, the fuel will be shutoff when you try to drive it.
You either need the actuator in the circuit, or a relay (CLB or Harness K harness) to send a signal back to the BCM, even if the lock plate is removed and there is no way the column can lock.
If you car has had the recall performed, and a GM Harness K kit installed, you should be able to unplug the actuator and the car should still function normally.
On newer models, if the BCM determines the actuator is in the locked position, OR cannot determine which postion the actuator is in, the fuel will be shutoff when you try to drive it.
You either need the actuator in the circuit, or a relay (CLB or Harness K harness) to send a signal back to the BCM, even if the lock plate is removed and there is no way the column can lock.
If you car has had the recall performed, and a GM Harness K kit installed, you should be able to unplug the actuator and the car should still function normally.
Last edited by TEXHAWK0; Jan 7, 2006 at 05:50 PM.
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Gotcha. Wasn't thinking about the "unlocked sensor feedback" to BCM no longer working once the actuator connection is unplugged.
What if just the sensor feedback portion was jumpered so the BCM knows the actuator is unlocked... do you think the fuel shutoff will occur then?
What if just the sensor feedback portion was jumpered so the BCM knows the actuator is unlocked... do you think the fuel shutoff will occur then?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2001
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From: Orland Park Illinois
St. Jude Donor '06-'07
Originally Posted by PGann
I have a '98 A4 that has never had any column lock issue; but with all the talk it is always in the back of my mind.
Talk about living on borrowed time.......You are really lucky so far. It'll fail on you at the worst possible time.
Why don't you take your car to the dealer and have them do the recall "fix" for you??I had my '98 A4 "fixed" about 3 years ago. Car works great and the steering wheel will NEVER lock up on me. Good luck....
Racer
Joined: Sep 2005
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From: IL
Learned my lesson the hard way - recall mods stink.
Originally Posted by BiggieBoy
Talk about living on borrowed time.......You are really lucky so far. It'll fail on you at the worst possible time. Why don't you take your car to the dealer and have them do the recall "fix" for you??
I had my '98 A4 "fixed" about 3 years ago. Car works great and the steering wheel will NEVER lock up on me. Good luck....
Why don't you take your car to the dealer and have them do the recall "fix" for you??I had my '98 A4 "fixed" about 3 years ago. Car works great and the steering wheel will NEVER lock up on me. Good luck....
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Originally Posted by PGann
What if just the sensor feedback portion was jumpered so the BCM knows the actuator is unlocked... do you think the fuel shutoff will occur then?
http://corvettemechanic.com/board/in...l=column+lock&
