Corvette C5 Forum 1997 through 2004

Stearing Column Lock Problem

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Old Feb 21, 2008 | 09:30 PM
  #1  
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Default Stearing Column Lock Problem

As I go thru this forum I read a lot about a stearing column lock problem.
It appears to be in the earlier C5s as far as I can see in reading here.
Was theproblem fixed by GM at some point or is my 2004 at risk for this problem?
 
Old Feb 22, 2008 | 08:17 AM
  #2  
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

i don't know the answer to your question, but when my first C5 had this issue about 5 years ago, it was fixed under a recall. you might just call your local chevy dealer and see if they can look up the vin number and they may be able to tell you if it needs to be brought in or not.
 
Old Feb 22, 2008 | 01:36 PM
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

Good advise!

I called a local dealership with my vin number and was told the car was recalled and the fix was done.
One more piece of mind.

As a new first time vette owner I find this forum extreamly valuable.

Thanks again.
 
Old Feb 22, 2008 | 01:48 PM
  #4  
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

no problem.

i am on my second vette now, both of which have been C5's. they seem to have alot of cool technology, but from time to time there's the occasional thing that has to be dealt with, like any other car. There are alot of people on this forum who know way more about what i would call the "science" of the C5, i think just about any problem could be solved via this forum.

Glad your column lock is good.
 
Old Feb 25, 2008 | 07:47 PM
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

Spoiler,

Is your car a auto or m6?

I've seen guys on here that have had issues even after it has supposedly been fixed by the dealer....I think that 6 speeds there are still issues. To avoid it all together, I installed the bypass. Didn't want to be stuck somewhere. You can find them at any vette place and it was easy to install.
 
Old Feb 25, 2008 | 08:45 PM
  #6  
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

i just went ahead and bought column lock by-pass from thunder racing for under 50.00to me a good investment
 
Old Feb 25, 2008 | 10:14 PM
  #7  
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

Thank you all for your input. It is greatly appreciated.

tankerpilot01 I have a 6 speed. I will investigate the recall fix again with the dealership to see exactly what the fix intailed.
If they did not do the bypass and cannot assure me the problem cannot happen again I will do the bypass myself.
Thanks for this heads up. I thought I was good.
 
Old Feb 26, 2008 | 07:55 AM
  #8  
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

From what I understand, on the six speed they just add a program to the computer to shut off the fuel if the lock doesn't retract and the car starts moving. This "fix" is that you can't drive the car with the steering locked.

In other words, they fixed their liability problem and not the actual defect.
 
Old Feb 26, 2008 | 06:56 PM
  #9  
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

riley / tankerpoloto1

I talked to my dealership today who did more research in regards to this question of Stearing Lock.
You are both correct in pointing out that the origional recall fix does not solve the locking problem in all cases.
The operative words, however, is "in all cases".
My dealership acknowlages that there is another "fix" bulletin that goes into play if a Corvette comes back with the same problem after the origional recall fix.

Interesting to note this bulletin is not in a form of a new recall.

This bulletin is 20 pages long. I have been envited to read this bulletin at the dealership and make copies. I will do so for future referance.
It appears the new "fix" is quite extensive.
In all fairness to GM I observe the following:
1) I am told that with the origional fix very few-none at this dealership-have come back with the same problem.And they state they havedonequite a few over the years.
2) The new fix, although extensive, maintains the origional locking security integraty when car is shut off. The aftermarket fix does not.
3) Warranty remains in tact. ( I carry an extended warrenty and will continue to do so on my 2004)
4)GM will pay for the new modification regardless of the age of the care.

Based on the above I will take my chanses and not modify me 2004. The worst that can happen is I have to call AAA for a flat bed--- only once!!

It is interesting to me to note that GM knew about this problem early on with the C5 Series and chose not to correct this problem thru the final 2004 car.





 
Old Feb 26, 2008 | 06:57 PM
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Default RE: Stearing Column Lock Problem

That is also what I heard, when it comes to the M6....they just are doing a "CYA"....but you still could be stranded, nonetheless.
 



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