Ive read everything there is to read but it doesnt really tell me what i can do. I have a 99 a4 with the recall done, however this morning when i went to start it gave me the pull the key, then the service column lock message, and i cant drive my car anywhere it just stalls, is there anything i can do or is the dealer have to fix this issue?

 

What every thread on the topic says to do is install the CLB BEFORE the problem arises. At this point you need to get the car to the dealership.

 

so whats the point of the recall, there isnt a plate or anything why does it think the thing is engaging and cutting fuel so i cant move it?

 

You have to understand how the system works.
If the lockplate is removed, the column cannot physically lock, but the BCM must receive the right signal so it thinks the column is unlocked, or it will tell the PCM to cut the fuel.
If you had the recall done that removed the lockplate AND installed the GM Harness K relay, most likely what has happened is the relay has failed. The function of the relay is to simulate the column lock actuator and send the signal back to the BCM so it does not cut the fuel.
If your actuator is still working, you can try disconnecting the Harness K jumper, and reconnecting the actuator.

If your actuator was not cycling, then you will need to either replace the GM Harness K relay, or install an aftermarket CLB relay in its place. The function of the CLB relay is the same as the Harness K relay.

At this point, you probably know more about fixing the problem than the dealer, but you still need a working relay to simulate the actuator for a permanent fix. If you contact a dealer, do not let them tell you that you must pay to install a new actuator. The aftermarket CLB relays leave the actuator disconnected, so you do not need a working actuator to make the car driveable.
It would be nice if it still works because you can reconnect it and solve your immediate problem.

 

I can still hear the noise of the actuator in the ignition key area, is this all cost on me or is this the fault of the dealer item? Where is this harness located?

 

If you can still hear the actuator cycle, then it still works.
You have to remove the panel below the steering column and locate where the harness is connected.

You simply remove the harness and reconnect the column lock actuator.

There are instructions on how to in install the bypass on the forum that will show you where to look and how to remove the panels
I will try to find a link for you...or you can do a search.

You will eventually need to install another relay so if the actuator fails you will not be stuck again.

You did say that your lockplate has been removed and the column does not lock, right?

 

Thats correct it had the recall done and i can move the steering wheel freely without the key it doesnt lock

 

This should show you what you are looking for.
http://www.ls1howto.com/index.php?article=24

 

As Tex said, you need to get a new k-harness or a clb. You should be good to go. Or as also said just take the k-harness out and hook it back up original, until you can get a relay......

 

Thanks, so removing the harness will allow me to drive it and then ill need to install a CLB soon?

 

The Harness K relay will be mounted to the left of the steering column on a bracket and looks like this.

 

Removing the harness and connecting the actuator will put the system back to the stock configuration.
It will work fine unless the actuator fails.

That is why you should go ahead and install a new bypass.

Note, the Harness K has two connectors, and connects between the main wiring harness and the actuator. It leaves the actuator in the circuit, and that is why you still hear it cycle.
You will need to remove the harness and connect the main wiring harness back to the actuator.

By the way, the above instructions for removing the lower panel says to bend the radio trim out. I would go ahead and remove the console and trim around the radio so you do not take a chance of breaking anything.

 

Thanks everyone specially tex for the quick responses i was having a heart attack. I took the dash apart and removed the harness and reconnected the factory wires, it first displayed the pull key which i did, then it doesnt pop up again or does the service column lock but i havent driven it yet cause there parts everywhere. Is this any kind of a warrentable item, should i order a new gm one or get the bypass unit?

 

You may have to clear the error message, and/or resync the BCM to the actuator. It should resync when you turn the key, but if it doesn't, there are instructions to reset the BCM in the CLB instructions.
(pulling fuses, #23, #25, etc.)

Some dealers might still warranty the recall, but most probably don't want to deal with it anymore.
If a dealer warrantied the Harness K, you would just get another harness. GM had quality problems with some of the relays and they were failing prematurely, so you may want to just order an aftermarket CLB from one of the forum suppliers (about $50)

Was the relay you removed black or white? The original Harness K kits had black relays, and the ones they had problems with were white. I am not sure if GM ever got a reliable supplier after the white relays. I got one of the original Harness K kits, and it has been working in my '04 for almost 5 years.

GM may still sell the Harness K kits. The original part number was 88952427 which was superceded by #89023816.

 

Mine is the white relay, i ordered a CLB from southern car parts, but im still going to the dealer tommarow to see if they have anything to say for themselves. Thanks