2004 Z06 steering wheel locked
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,439
Likes: 23
From: mesa az
2004 Z06 steering wheel locked
I had this problem once before before the battery was replaced. Recently it locked again and I was stuck for several minutes trying to pull the key and reset the computer. It started and function was normal and I drove the car. I came home and the next time it wouldn't unlock. I ordered a kit and plugged the little box in. The warning to Service Steering Column went away and I have not been able to get the pin to disengage. I tried shaking the wheel as one suggested. No luck. The kit came with a bypass and you plug it into the lighter for power. I even got the seller to double check my steps.
Are there any suggestions how to get the computer to unlock the steering wheel?
Brand new battery 700 cca.
Are there any suggestions how to get the computer to unlock the steering wheel?
Brand new battery 700 cca.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,488
Likes: 1,743
From: Knoxville Tn
Try disconnecting the battery for several minutes, shake the wheel then reconnect the battery.
This should reset the computer.
which device did you install?
Some people actually remove the locking mechanism from the steering column.
This should reset the computer.
which device did you install?
Some people actually remove the locking mechanism from the steering column.
Pro
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 515
Likes: 278
From: Carol Stream (Chicago suburbs) IL
If I were you, I would consider another solution to your steering column issue. The LMC5 from Compliance Parts. Give them a call (855) 565-8388 and they can walk you through the unlock and you'll likely end up buying their product and solution. I am a very satisfied customer.
http://www.complianceparts.com/c5collockdesc.html
http://www.complianceparts.com/c5collockdesc.html
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,439
Likes: 23
From: mesa az
I think the steering wheel lock issue as far as the computer activation when the key is put in the ignition has been removed from the system. The problem is How do I get the pin to drop one last time? I am hopefful someone has a solution to this problem. The kit is KCDesign brand. My problem is the pin is already dropped. None of these kits are designed to unlock the pin rather install it before. They include a bypass but my car doesn't have a K Harness installed. Double checked the VIN number to make sure as well as a visual inspection. I saw one dude use a big drill bit on his steering wheel column. No thanks on that solution.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 2,797
Likes: 356
From: Northville, MI
Back in the day (circa 2004) you did not have the LMC5 available and the column would occasionally lock with the old by-pass systems. Usually a low battery or low reserve cranking battery became the problem. With the car off check the voltage at the battery terminals--if below 12.5V that can cause the problem. The only solution I can think of would be to jack up the font end. With the wheels off the ground and the ignition turned to the on position, turn the steering wheel violently to the left and then the right until you have bypassed the pin. If you cannot get it free this way get someone who is bigger, stronger, etc. It has worked for a GM engineer at that time and everyone I have recommended it to since then. Is it the best way to do it--no, but it works when all else fails. Then when you turn on the car again it should be unlocked. At that time get the LMC5 system and install it or face the possibility of it happening again.
Last edited by Gordy M; Nov 28, 2018 at 09:53 AM. Reason: spelling
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,439
Likes: 23
From: mesa az
Back in the day (circa 2004) you did not have the LMC5 available and the column would occasionally lock with the old by-pass systems. Usually a low battery or low reserve cranking battery became the problem. With the car off check the voltage at the battery terminals--if below 12.5V that can cause the problem. The only solution I can think of would be to jack up the font end. With the wheels off the ground and the ignition turned to the on position, turn the steering wheel violently to the left and then the right until you have bypassed the pin. If you cannot get it free this way get someone who is bigger, stronger, etc. It has worked for a GM engineer at that time and everyone I have recommended it to since then. Is it the best way to do it--no, but it works when all else fails. Then when you turn on the car again it should be unlocked. At that time get the LMC5 system and install it or face the possibility of it happening again.
The drill sounds like my only option if there is no way to get the computer to unlock the steering wheel? Waiting for a response from Compliance Parts.
Last edited by C4in mesa; Nov 28, 2018 at 12:43 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 3,127
Likes: 800
From: Espanola New Mexico
If you can't free the steering wheel by jerking it violently and you mentioned that you tried the un-locker which is what you pluged into the cigarette lighter, then the next logical step is for you or pay some shop to remove your steering wheel and unlock it.
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Pro
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 515
Likes: 133
I had that problem when I installed my LMC5. The unlocker would not unlock the column.
The solution, after calling Richard at Compliance Parts, was do undo the steering column shroud enought to tap on the column lock with a screwdriver and hammer. Not real easy to undo the shroud with everything in place but I got it far enough.
P.S.--The unlocker is a jumper harness that goes from the battery to the approriate pins on the BCM connectors. Is this, or something similar, what you have.
The solution, after calling Richard at Compliance Parts, was do undo the steering column shroud enought to tap on the column lock with a screwdriver and hammer. Not real easy to undo the shroud with everything in place but I got it far enough.
P.S.--The unlocker is a jumper harness that goes from the battery to the approriate pins on the BCM connectors. Is this, or something similar, what you have.
Last edited by wrmiles; Nov 28, 2018 at 07:42 PM.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,517
Likes: 159
From: Lafayette Louisiana
Sounds like column lock recalls have not been done on your car. Column lock plate should have been removed in the second recall # 04006C. Might see if dealer will still do it. I kinda doubt it but it doesn't hurt to ask.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,439
Likes: 23
From: mesa az
I fixed the steering wheel lock problem. Despite several attempts to retract the security pin everything failed. I watched a YouTube video showing a guy use a 4" grinder to cut the pin. It could not be any easier. Remove the plastic cover and the pin is on the outer edge of the Column making it easy to cut.