Steering column lock message

Tiny
ATLIEBE0090
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 28,000 MILES
Third time since car is new.
Sunday, March 15th, 2020 AT 6:59 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
Hi,

There was a recall related to this issue for 2001 manual transmissions. Take a look through this recall and let me know if it helps.

______________________

2001 Chevrolet Corvette V8-5.7L VIN G
Recall 04V060000: Steering Column Lock Defect
Vehicle Steering and Suspension Steering Steering Column Technical Service Bulletins Recall 04V060000: Steering Column Lock Defect
RECALL 04V060000: STEERING COLUMN LOCK DEFECT
DEFECT: On certain passenger vehicles equipped with electronic column lock systems (ECL), when the ignition switch is turned to "lock, " the ECL prevents turning of the steering wheel. When the vehicle is started, the ECL unlocks the steering column. The vehicle is designed so that if the column fails to unlock when the vehicle is started and the customer tries to drive away, the fuel supply will be shut off stopping the engine. This prevents the vehicle from being driven when it cannot be steered. However, if voltage at the Powertrain Control Module is low or interrupted, the fuel shut off may not occur and the vehicle can be driven while the steering column is locked. If this occurs, a crash could occur.

REMEDY: On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, the dealer will disable the steering column lock by removing the column lock plate. When the ignition key is removed, the transmission shifter will lock, but the steering column will not lock. On vehicles equipped with a manual transmission, the dealer will reprogram the powertrain control module. The steering column on these vehicles will continue to lock when the key is removed. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during the second quarter of 2004. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438.

__________________________

Let me know if this helps or if it mirrors what you are experiencing.

Joe
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Sunday, March 15th, 2020 AT 6:30 PM
Tiny
ATLIEBE0090
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
The car had a low battery after sitting all winter. The maintainer that was suppose to keep the battery at a steady level apparently failed. The massage came on after battery was charged. I disconnected the battery and then reconnected it. At that point the message "steering column lock was gone. It must have rebooted! Went for a Sunday afternoon spin. One more month and it will be convertible weather, Thanks for Info!
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Monday, March 16th, 2020 AT 6:31 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
That is certainly the issue. The idea that it was a recall should be explored. Call a Dealership to determine if your vehicle was repaired as needed.

Joe
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Monday, March 16th, 2020 AT 8:06 AM
Tiny
ATLIEBE0090
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I've owned it since 2002 and yes, the recall was taken care. Like the car, I'm getting older but I still enjoy it when I drive it around the block. Low mileage! My fifth vette!
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Monday, March 16th, 2020 AT 9:06 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
Sounds like fun. When I was researching for you, I noted more than once that low voltage will do this, so I'm glad it was an easy fix.

You take care and stop back any time you have questions.

Joe
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Monday, March 16th, 2020 AT 9:13 AM

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