Why can't the problem be fixed....
Thread Starter
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 2,082
Likes: 1
From: Louisville KY
Why can't the problem be fixed....
internally on this column lock issue?
If your engine has an internal problem you go in and fix it. You don't add something externally to fix it. Same with your home computer, you replace the part, you don't fix it from the outside.
What is it about this problem that prevents an internal fix? I'm just trying to understand what it's not doing and why it can't be replaced instead of adding an external part.
If your engine has an internal problem you go in and fix it. You don't add something externally to fix it. Same with your home computer, you replace the part, you don't fix it from the outside.
What is it about this problem that prevents an internal fix? I'm just trying to understand what it's not doing and why it can't be replaced instead of adding an external part.
good question !! This will be probably classified as a "beating a dead horse" posting. 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 7,604
Likes: 8
From: Belleville Il
Beats the hell outa me!! At least part of the problem is getting erroneous electrical signals back to the BCM,,Thus the simplest solution is the CLB that sends a completed circuit signal to the BCM.I think they try to OVER ENGINEER their solutions,,as well as they have to meet some Federal safety parameters as well. Mine had 2 recalls before I bought it and it still stranded me a few weeks ago ,,the Wheel itself doesn't lock but the K harness went blooey,not sending the proper false signal,,cutting fuel when it gave the "SERVICE COLUMN LOCK" message.CLB and I'm starting and running fine now!!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,561
Likes: 448
From: Atlanta metro Ga.
This one is simple; the drive mechanism - a small electric motor with a worm gear drive - is UNDER engineered for the application at hand.
Unless you are going to re-engineer the motor assembly, then a logical solution is to install a $10 relay to simulate the functionality.
Unless you are going to re-engineer the motor assembly, then a logical solution is to install a $10 relay to simulate the functionality.
Thread Starter
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 2,082
Likes: 1
From: Louisville KY
itzza427, Dan the C5 Man, thanks for the replies.
The reason I posed this question is nothing has worked on my 98 A4. I tried the harness k. I tried an aftermarket CLB.
I don't like the thought of having to put up with this for the rest of the time I own it.
The reason I posed this question is nothing has worked on my 98 A4. I tried the harness k. I tried an aftermarket CLB.
I don't like the thought of having to put up with this for the rest of the time I own it.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,191
Likes: 43
From: Scottsdale Az
How did you "try" the CLB? It works when you use it. Problem solved.
Team Owner
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 87,357
Likes: 1,592
From: Western NY
Not so fast there, cisco.....
I insatlled a CLB on my '01 coupe about 4 years ago, and it worked for about 2 days. Then the lock pin started to dirft out, and I could hear it "ratchet" on the lock plate detents. I took the CLB out, and the car was fine for a couple of years.
I was still worried about it locking up and leaving me stranded, so I took the lock plate out and cut off the outer OD, where the pin engages. The pin can now stick all it wants, but it won't lock up the steering wheel.....
