Recalls


CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
04V060000GENERAL MOTORS CORP.from 03/01/1997 to 06/30/1998V (Vehicle)12662404/26/2004ODIGENERAL MOTORS CORP.02/09/200402/09/2004
Defect SummaryOn certain passenger vehicles equipped with electronic column lock systems (ecl), when the ignition switch is turned to lock, the ecl system prevents turning of the steering system. when the vehicle is started, the ecl unlocks the steering system. the vehicle is designed so that if the column fails to unlock when the vehicle is started and the customer tries to drive, the fuel supply will be shut off so that the vehicle cannot move when the vehicle cannot be steered. if voltage at the powertrain control module is low or interrupted, however, the fuel shut off may not occur and the vehicle can be accelerated while the steering system is locked. also when the control system shows that the ecl is unlocked and the vehicle is being driven, the lock pin location can vary. depending on the location of the lock plate relative to the switch transition point, there could then be contact between the lock plate and pin causing the steering to lock while driving .
Consequence SummaryIf this occurs, a crash could occur without warning.
Corrective SummaryOn 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, perform a dimensional check of the column lock and, if necessary, replace the lock plate. the steering column on these vehicles will continue to lock when the key is removed. owner notification to owners of 1997 vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions began on april 26, 2004. owners of 1998 through 2004 vehicles (except 1997-1998 manual transmission vehicles) will be notified beginning on august 2, 2004. the remaining owners (1997-1998 manual transmission vehicles) will be notified later in 2004, when parts are available. owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438.
NotesGm recall no. 04006.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
STEERING
05023500407/01/200510017466Revised steering column turn signal cancel cam and steering shaft upper bearing spring replacement (manual and telescoping) procedure. *tt11/08/2005
03023600208/01/200310012577Revised steering wheel position sensor or steering shaft lower bearing replacement procedure and steering wheel position sensor centering procedure. *eh03/07/2005
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
0508102/01/200610019745Special policy adjustment-electronic column lock system. the column lock may fail to unlock the steering column when the vehicle is started. *tt04/25/2006
0212200402/12/200410012991A condition in which the vehicle can operate when the electronic steering column fails to unlock. *tt04/05/2005
04006A11/23/200404006B10012082Electronic column lock system. this bulletin cancels and replaces bulletin 04006a, issued july 2004. *tt02/11/2005
0400611/23/200404006B10007060Gmp04-057 - 04006 electronic column lock system. *tt this is a part 1 of a 2 part message. *tt05/25/2004
0104407/01/2001622905Customer satisfaction campaign involves vehicles exhibiting a condition in which the electronic column lock may not function as intended. *tt10/24/2001
STEERING - WHEEL AND HANDLE BAR
0104407/10/2001623553Some vehicles may experience a condition in which the electronic column lock may not function as intended, the condition could result in the failure of the steering column to unlock during initial key in and start up, should the column fail10/29/2001

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
STEERING
PE99066GENERAL MOTORS CORP.11/08/199907/21/2000STEERING COLUMN LOCK MODULE
 Complaints have been received from six owners of the subject vehicles, reporting incidents in which the steering column lock module malfunctioned.such failures may potentially cause the steering column/wheel to lock in a fixed position with a loss of vehicle steering control while the vehicle is in motion.a preliminary evaluation has been opened on this issue.
PE02054GENERAL MOTORS CORP.07/01/200211/15/2002STEERING COLUMN LOCKUP
 Allege that the steering column locks up while the vehicle is in motion at speeds between 5 to 65, causing the driver to lose steering control.
EA02031GENERAL MOTORS CORP.11/15/200203/11/2004STEERING COLUMN LOCKUP04V060000
 In 2001, general motors (gm) issued customer service campaigns 1044 and 1044a to address a condition where the steering column would fail to unlock during the initial key-in and start-up in certain my 1998-2000 corvette vehicles.however, odi continued to receive complaints concerning steering column lockup on corvette vehicles.as a result, pe02-054 was opened and later upgraded to ea02-031 for my 1997-2001 subject vehicles.odi's analysis identified concerns with post-repair failures in vehicles serviced through the campaigns, as well as, failures in my 1997-2003 subject vehicles not included in the campaigns.(note: the manufacturer failure data above is limited to my 1997-2003 vehicles through 10/17/2003.)on february 6, 2004, gm notified nhtsa of a safety defect in my 1997-2004 corvette vehcles equipped with manual transmissions and my 1997-2000 corvette vehicles with automatic transmissions.the notification stated that if the voltage at the powertrain control module (pcm), which was designed to shut down the fuel supply when the steering column failed to unlock and the customer tried to drive the vehicle, is low or interrupted, the fuel shut off may not occur.as a result, the customer could drive the vehicle while the steering column was locked causing the driver to lose steering control and possibly crash without warning.gm will instruct owners to bring their vehicles to a dealer to have the pcm reprogrammed for manual transmission vehicles and the electric column lock disabled for automatic transmission vehicles.odi will monitor the effectiveness of the remedy in the manual transmission vehicles and take further action if warranted.
STEERING - COLUMN
EA02031GENERAL MOTORS CORP.11/15/200203/11/2004STEERING COLUMN LOCKUP04V060000
 In 2001, general motors (gm) issued customer service campaigns 1044 and 1044a to address a condition where the steering column would fail to unlock during the initial key-in and start-up in certain my 1998-2000 corvette vehicles.however, odi continued to receive complaints concerning steering column lockup on corvette vehicles.as a result, pe02-054 was opened and later upgraded to ea02-031 for my 1997-2001 subject vehicles.odi's analysis identified concerns with post-repair failures in vehicles serviced through the campaigns, as well as, failures in my 1997-2003 subject vehicles not included in the campaigns.(note: the manufacturer failure data above is limited to my 1997-2003 vehicles through 10/17/2003.)on february 6, 2004, gm notified nhtsa of a safety defect in my 1997-2004 corvette vehcles equipped with manual transmissions and my 1997-2000 corvette vehicles with automatic transmissions.the notification stated that if the voltage at the powertrain control module (pcm), which was designed to shut down the fuel supply when the steering column failed to unlock and the customer tried to drive the vehicle, is low or interrupted, the fuel shut off may not occur.as a result, the customer could drive the vehicle while the steering column was locked causing the driver to lose steering control and possibly crash without warning.gm will instruct owners to bring their vehicles to a dealer to have the pcm reprogrammed for manual transmission vehicles and the electric column lock disabled for automatic transmission vehicles.odi will monitor the effectiveness of the remedy in the manual transmission vehicles and take further action if warranted.
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
EA02031GENERAL MOTORS CORP.11/15/200203/11/2004STEERING COLUMN LOCKUP04V060000
 In 2001, general motors (gm) issued customer service campaigns 1044 and 1044a to address a condition where the steering column would fail to unlock during the initial key-in and start-up in certain my 1998-2000 corvette vehicles.however, odi continued to receive complaints concerning steering column lockup on corvette vehicles.as a result, pe02-054 was opened and later upgraded to ea02-031 for my 1997-2001 subject vehicles.odi's analysis identified concerns with post-repair failures in vehicles serviced through the campaigns, as well as, failures in my 1997-2003 subject vehicles not included in the campaigns.(note: the manufacturer failure data above is limited to my 1997-2003 vehicles through 10/17/2003.)on february 6, 2004, gm notified nhtsa of a safety defect in my 1997-2004 corvette vehcles equipped with manual transmissions and my 1997-2000 corvette vehicles with automatic transmissions.the notification stated that if the voltage at the powertrain control module (pcm), which was designed to shut down the fuel supply when the steering column failed to unlock and the customer tried to drive the vehicle, is low or interrupted, the fuel shut off may not occur.as a result, the customer could drive the vehicle while the steering column was locked causing the driver to lose steering control and possibly crash without warning.gm will instruct owners to bring their vehicles to a dealer to have the pcm reprogrammed for manual transmission vehicles and the electric column lock disabled for automatic transmission vehicles.odi will monitor the effectiveness of the remedy in the manual transmission vehicles and take further action if warranted.

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STEERING
12/06/200622500
 Tl* the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. the contact stated that the vehicle was been previously serviced under nhtsa campaign id number 04v060000 (steering:column locking:anti-theft device). the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer december 2012 due to steering failures and the steering column harness was replaced. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 22,500.
12/06/200622500
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. the contact stated that the vehicle was been previously serviced under nhtsa campaign id number 04v060000 (steering:column locking:anti-theft device). the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer december 2012 due to steering failures and the steering column harness was replaced. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 22,500. kmj
12/06/200622500
 Tl-the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. the contact stated the vehicle had been previously repaired under a recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number 04v060000 (steering:column locking:anti-theft device). in december of 2012, the failure recurred. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for the most recent failure where the steering column harness was replaced. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 22,500. js
10/29/201189000
 My steering lock would not disengage under any condition. car would drive but would not steer.
10/25/201047500
 Tl* the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. the contact stated that the steering wheel would seize while driving various speeds. the dealer diagnosed that the steering column motor would need to be replaced. the manufacturer was notified, but denied any assistance with repairs to the defect. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 47,500 and the current mileage was 49,000.
10/25/201047500
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. the contact stated that the steering wheel would seize while driving various speeds. the dealer diagnosed that the steering column motor would need to be replaced. the manufacturer was notified, but denied any assistance with repairs to the defect. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 47,500 and the current mileage was 49,000. kmj
10/25/201047500
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. the contact stated that the steering wheel would lock while driving down the highway. the dealer diagnosed that the steering column motor would need to be replaced. the manufacturer was notified, but denied any assistance with repair to the defect. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 47,500 and the current mileage was 49,000. nw
07/24/201188000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. nhtsa recall campaign id number: 04v060000 (steering: column locking: anti-theft device) repair was performed on the vehicle and it failed after 30,000 miles. the contact stated the repair consisted of putting a k-harness in place to emulate the locking mechanism so that the steering would not lock. the repair failed and the manufacturer will not repair the vehicle again. the failure and current mileage was 88,000. rvk
07/24/201188000
 Tl- the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. the contact had nhtsa recall campaign id number: 04v060000 (steering: column locking: anti-theft device) performed on the vehicle and the repair failed after 30,000 miles. the contact stated the repair consisted of putting a k-harness in place to emulate the locking mechanism. this was supposed to emulate the steering mechanism so that the steering would not lock. the repair failed and the manufacturer will not repair the vehicle again. the failure mileage and current mileages were 88,000.rl
08/01/2009380001
 I have experienced for the 2nd time a problem with the steering column lock system. i had previously had my car towed (2008) after attempting to back out of a parking space and the steering wheel locked in place and i could not turn at all. the problem was suppose to be corrected after notifying the dealership of a service bulletin that spoke directly to this problem. the remedy was disabling the steering column lock by removing the lock plate. i have again experienced this problem! however, this time, the column no longer locks, since the column lock plate was removed, but when you try to accelerate the fuel cuts off. my son towed the car to a local dealership for me last week and informed them of the problem. they say they can correct it for $915.00, stating they have to replace a motor in the steering column, and that it is not related to the previous problem at all. sounds like pure bull to me! i have read that others have experienced this problem as many as 5 times, and have been told that it is not covered because of the year of the car. i have under 40k miles on this car, and have not put more than 10k on the vehicle since the problem was initially repaired. it is a defect that they need to correct at their cost and hopefully permanently this time. please help!!!! *tr
09/17/2008546781
 When starting my 1998 corvette (indy edition) car after it was parked, the steering column lock was engaged and i could not turn the steering wheel. no matter what i tried or how long i waited (12 hours) the steering column lock remained locked. *tr
09/04/2008390001
 My 1998 chevrolet corvette convertible has less than 40,000 miles on it. general motors issued a recall for a steering column lock defect. this recall is very wide spread over many model years of corvettes. this is a serious safety and road hazard. i have just experienced the 5th incident in less than 40,000 miles and the 3rd time within 13,000 miles. when the steering column lock warning appears, it kills the motor. what if this happens while i am driving? it has been repaired under recall 4 times by our local dealership jerry chambers chevrolet in bellingham, wa. on september 4, 2008 for the 5th time, the steering column locked and the motor died. now the same dealership said the car is too old and gm will not stand behind the recall. they have offered to fix it at my cost without warranty or guarantee that this will finally fix the recall steering column lock. i need to understand my consumer rights under the recall. in my opinion, this is a recall that has not been fixed even if the car has 40,000 miles on it and is 10 years old, it is a well known recall. are there other agencies i should be contacting? do you have any understanding how a class action lawsuit is initiated? katie zowada *tr
05/09/200033000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. while driving 20 mph, the steering column locked up while making a right turn. she stopped vehicle, got out and had vehicle towed to the dealership. the dealer took out a plate that caused the steering wheel to lock to remedy the issue. again in 2002, the same issue occurred in 2002 and most recently in 2008. the dealer in 2002 put an ecl relay harness to remedy the issue. the dealer also stated that they repaired the issue according to recall 04v060000. the failure mileage was 33,000 and current mileage was 50,000.
07/01/20033
 While driving the steering column locked which caused the steering wheel not to turn. the consumer was able to start the vehicle and drive it before realizing that the steering wheel could not be turned. the cause of the problem has not been determined. *nm
378001
 Vehicle experienced the same defect with its electronic lock steering malfunction as stated in the tsb 1d10002157. *ak
07/24/200342000101/01/1999
 While driving 5 mph, the steering wheel locked up. dealer notified. *ak when the consumer backed out of the driveway, with the steering wheel turned, it locked up completely while fully engaged. *ph *jb
06/23/200341000110/11/1997
 My 1998 corvette, manula transmission, was taken to george moore chevrolet on june 23 for warranty window repair. upon pick-up, the dealer was unable to release my car due to steering wheel column lock-up, during initial key-in and start-up. kathleen demeter acknowledges this concern in her letter to jay ehle, dated feb.5,2003 (nvs-213, ea02-031). every attempt to fix/address the problem resulted in no fix. gm stats this problem was not under recall. i contend it must be for gm to have found the same error in earlier/later model years. it now is costing me $500.00 to fix it. can you assist me? *nlm
1
 While driving, the steering wheel locked up. *jb did not count in ea02-031 (duplicate of odi# 10022859)
1
 After stopping at a stop sign, the consumer was unable to steer the vehicle. ***jb ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
11/29/200263000109/11/1997
 Consumer had problems with the steering. also stated that while driving was involved into a collision which he thinks it was caused do to steering problems. dealer was not contacted at the time of this called. ts *tt
10/02/20021
 While driving consumer noticed that engine check light had come on. after taking vehicle in for a diagnosis, consumer was told that a steering wheel position sensor was needed. steering sensor uncorrelated malfunctioned/sensor shorted-per invoice. consumer felt that this was a defect becuase vehicle had low mileage, and knew of others with similar problems. manufacturer was aware and was willing to split the bill 50/50, but consumer felt if dealer didn't cover all charges then further action will be taken. cost of total repairs was $1256.36. *scc...*ak
07/03/2001
 When starting vehicle steering would lock up for no reason. problem would happen after vehicle had been driven for a while and turned off.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
10/27/1999110/05/1999
 Steering lock module shorted out causing steering wheel to lock. mjs (did not count in numbers for ea02-031; duplicate of odi# 852313.)
111/01/1997
 Steering sensor failed. nm ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
STEERING - COLUMN
11/07/200428380704/03/1999
 I answered the recall on the steering column lock for my 1998 corvette in november 2004. it has stranded me 6 times since and says steering column lock on the message board. i never know when it is going to do it so we have basically quit driving the car. in 400 miles since november it has failed 6 times and had to be towed in to the dealership. the 7th time when i went to pick it up, it failed again in the service department so i had to leave it again. now i don't trust it to drive it and i can't sell it for fear of being sued. what do i do? gm says they are not responsible and i will have to just keep taking it back. they said any legal claims would have to be directed at the dealership. *nm
04/23/2005380001007/20/1998
 Gm recalled my 1998 corvette for a steering colulm lock, i had recall performed on april 12, 2005 by team chevrolet in scottsbluff ne. on april 23, 2005 my steering colum loked up while at corvette function in bowing green ky. some gm engineers were able to unlock it by unpluging the computer. i took the car back to team chevolet to have it rechecked, they found nothing wrong. later that evening it locked up. most of the time the colum would unlock if you pulled key and waited 10 seconds. there has been two times that that didnt work, once in bowling green ky and the last time in my garage. the car is now in my garage with the steering colum locked up. i spoke with team chvrolet and jacky johnson chevolet customer assistance (phone 1-313-667-7153) about this problem, both stated that the recall was performed and i would most likely be charged for a tow truck and the repair bill. my complaint is gm recalled this car for a steering colum lock which i have, i expect my steering colum to be fixed free of charge as noted in the recall letter. i expect gm to pay for a tow truck since i did all i could to resolve this problem. i went to the dealer twice and had several talks with jacky johnson with no satisfaction l
01/13/20051
 Recall campaign: the consumer received a recall notice(04v060000) electronic column lock. no parts available. service manager joe gibson. *nm
04/01/2004226481
 Steering column locked even though the car started. *bf vehicle has steering problems. safety recall campaign id number : 04v060000. vehicle towed to the shop for repair. *tc
03/01/200430000609/25/1997
 Steering wheel lock up indications are being exhibited. driver information center message remove key and wait 10 seconds has appeared a half dozen times over the past 3 months. car is only driven once or twice per week. knowledgeable people in this area advise me this is a precursor to failure of the steering column lock. local dealer and gm customer service tell me my vin # is not included in recall. my reading of recall campaign # 04v060000 indicates my 1997 thru 2000 with automatic transmissions are subject to this defect. local dealer and gm customer service refuse to help with problem. *ak
05/25/20043
 While driving 15 mph,the steering column locked up. the driver was unable to steer or turn the steering wheel. 45 minutes later the consumer was able to unlock the column and drove the vehicle home. the driver contacted the dealer and the dealer informed the driver that this vehicle was not on recall at this time. the driver informed the dealer that this problem had occurred more than once. please provide any additional information. *nm
05/25/2004104/13/1998
 When the vehicle was started a light flashed on the dashboard and the steering column locked. the driver tried to unlock it but was unable to. the driver had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection. the mechanic replaced the steering column lease fill in additional information. *nm *nm
05/24/20045
 When the vehicle was started the vehicle and steering column locked up. the consumer tried to unlock it but was unable to do so. consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection. the mechanic informed the consumer that a recall issued was not for this vehicle. *ak *nm
04/06/2004303/01/1998
 While backing out garage,the steering wheel locked up. the driver was unable to unlock the steering wheel. the vehicle was towed to the dealership and the cause of the problem could not be determined.*mr incident occurred three times. *la
03/25/20041
 While driving the steering wheel locked up. please provide any additional information. *nm
1
 Steering column locked up after vehicle was engaged. car is currently being checked by dealer. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/13/20031
 1998 corvette steering column locked up. this problem has happened to so many people that i think something should be done about it. i had to pay $700 dollars out of my pocket to get this problem fixed. if and when their is a lawsuit i hope to be involved. thank you, russell roberts. *nlm ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
1
 Vehicle failes to start dueto a default in the steering column. *ak
1
 Vehicle will not start do to a faulty steering column. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
11/29/200263000109/11/1997
 Consumer had problems with the steering. also stated that while driving was involved into a collision which he thinks it was caused do to steering problems. dealer was not contacted at the time of this called. ts *tt
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
06/26/2008799883
 Tl*the contact owns a 1998 chevrolet corvette. when starting up the vehicle, the steering column would lock up. it would occasionally be released if the key was removed and the vehicle was restarted. the steering lock was repaired twice according to nhtsa campaign id number 07v544000 (steering:column locking:anti-theft device), but it currently needs to be repaired again. the current mileage was 80,500 and failure mileage was 79,988. update 09/10/08 *cw updated 09/15/08. *jb
04/04/200618501102/02/2006
 On april4, 2006, while parked in my driveway, my 1998 corvette, when i tried to start my engine, the steering column failed to unlock and when i tried to drive the engine would shut down. i call the local chevy dealer, bill branch chevrolet located at 3980 fowler st, ft myers ,fl 33901. they said they understood the problem and would send a tow truck to pick up the vehicle as i was unable to move the vehicle. they repaired the vehicle at no charge but billed me for towing. as the problem with this vehicle was listed under your recall, nhtsa campaign id # 00v111000,as of feb 6,2004 why would i be charged for towing ???? *tr
11/12/2007103/01/2004
 Recall on column lock system on gm/chevy corvette was performed on 2-14-05 & not done properly. the solution is to disable this anti-theft system as it can lock-up on you without warning while driving. on my corvette this was performed but not disabled, my car locked up in my garage 11/07...lucky me! so for well over 2 years i was driving a car that was supposed to be fixed putting my life as well as my family members in danger. now gm wants me to eat the cost of repairs because of the time & miles since. i'm talking about $371.00, not much really but it's the principle. they should be more worried that i'll sue for negligence! *tr
08/01/20061
 1998 chevrolet corvette customer states that the steering column suddenly locked up and was unable to steer the vehicle**cc the consumer was told the problem he experienced was a recall issue. the problem was corrected free of charge, however the consumer is requesting reimbursement for the towing charges. the claim for reimbursement was denied because the consumer didn't have the vehicle towed to a gm dealer. *jb
05/18/20060104/12/2001
 Started car, engaged auto trans and accelerated. car moved approx 10 feet and stalled. repeated several times. car was towed to dealer. the repair was to re-install the parts removed on 3/16/06 as part of the electronic column lock system recall issued by chevrolet. *nm
12/11/2006135000102/24/2006
 Dt*: the contact stated after the recall remedy repair #04v060000 regarding the steering; column locking; anti theft device was performed on the vehicle another problem appear. while driving any speeds the vehicle stalled without warning. this occurred on three separate occasions. the vehicle was maneuvered off the road and restarted. the dealer was alerted. *ak
03/31/20061070001
 I have a 1998 corvette which has had the steering column lock recall performed twice. now there is a updated recall for my car that i cannot get covered because the dealer says that one of the past recalls have been performed improperly. the car has never been serviced any where except authorized chevrolet dealers. the dealer says it needs $439 worth of repairs that have been known to chevrolet for eight years now as a continues safety issue. they continued to build the corvettes with the same problems after the first recall was announced. that shows inability to solve this problem. if you had the problem fixed you would not continue to build new cars with the problem. *jb
01/01/19012
 1998 chevrolet corvette steering column light comes on and shuts off engine. *ts the consumer is requesting reimbursement because the repair shop installed the wrong part, which was replaced under recall. the consumer had to go another repair facility and get the work done *jb
12/25/2005109310407/14/2000
 I own a 98 m/t corvette & i am an automobile expert. the c5 corvette has an engineering safety defect with the electo-mechanical steering column lock system. there had been many instances of the steering column lock engaging while driving on these c5 & has happened 3 times on my c5 before the accident on 12/25/05. no fail safe system for the column lock exists and the bcm or body control module has total control over this column lock. many vehicle malfunctions will cause this steering lock to engage while driving. gms recall for vehicles equipped with an a/t the column lock was eliminated. gms supposed fix for the m/t vehicles was to reprogram the pcm's with new software & this software change did not prevent the column lock from engaging; it just made sure that the engine shuts off should the steering lock engage. about 07/05 the steering column lock had engaged while driving & had left the car stuck in traffic. the recall was performed at his time. i was told the steering locking problem had been resolved. on 12/25/05 while driving on a wet road, without warning, my c5 skidded when the engine suddenly stopped & i was unable to correct the skid because the steering lock had engaged & the car went a crossed a divided roadway into oncoming traffic, stopped & then got hit. the other vehicles that hit my c5 were destroyed & the occupants were injured. this accident will happen eventually with all c5 s. if the steering lock had just engaged this would have of not caused an accident. if it had just locked, & the engine had not shut off, the car could still be stopped safely just blocking traffic. however, if the road is wet when the engine stops & the vehicle is rear wheel drive with a m/t the rear wheels will skid. if a skid occurs it can be easily corrected by turning the steering wheel to keep the vehicle in a straight path unless the steering is locked. if the recall had not been performed this accident wouldn't have happened.*jb
09/29/2005449392
 Crane chevrolet in wayne nj performed the electronic column system recall and 1500 miles later it locked up again so the car had to be towed for the second time and to my surprise they gave me a bill for$382. they claimed it was ecl motor that had to be replaced and it was not under the recall ,the system was supposed to be disabled so this would not happen again, shame on gm for putting a system on this car that keep failing and trying to make us pay for it .there are countless amounts of complains here also on every corvette forum ,why isn't the government stepping in and making gm take responsibility for this failure, until they do we can not drive this cars with confidence that we will not get stranded. *jb
07/15/200530500104/14/2004
 Dt: the caller stated steering column locks when in reverse. this did not happen every time. the caller had it fixed and paid for it himself. dealer said repair was not under recall. the caller said a recall on the ignition lock actuator was issued. manufacturer said they would not fix it under warranty. *ak
08/08/200537000109/04/2001
 Gm recall #04006a steering column lock up. my 1998 c5 corvette is part of the recall - i had the column lock up while driving- towed it to the nearest dealer - they installed the so called recall kit - and it didn't fix the problem - they are now saying it is something else and i am liable for labor and parts. this is a factory defect/ flaw that should be fixed by gm! i feel gm does not know how to fix this problem as many c5 corvette owners have had this happen even after the so call fix was added. major safety issue as the car will still run and drive when the column locks up! *nm
07/29/2005111/01/2004
 Dt: the contact owned a 1998 chevrolet corvette. he received nhtsa recall o4v060000 concerning electronic column lock. the vehicle was taken to the dealership and recall repair work was performed, but it did not fix the problem. the dealership and the manufacturer were notified, and they were trying to force contact into some other type of repair that was going to cost him a lot of money. contact felt he should not have to pay for this because it was a safety defect. *ak
07/21/2005203/30/2000
 Dt: the consumer received a recall 04v060600 approximately late last year and he received several more since then. the parts were on back order. when recall repairs were arranged, in april, they had to order parts, and the dealership was suppose to notify the consumer when the parts were in. two weeks ago consumer checked on the parts and they were not in. he e-mailed chevrolet, and was contacted and told the parts were on back order. he then got a call stating the parts were in. the vehicle was taken to be repaired july 20, 2005. the steering column lock would not release, it started around march. the vehicle would start, but the consumer did not notice until the vehicle was started that the steering was locked. the dealership thought they had fixed it. he had the same problem when he got in the vehicle last night. he called the dealership and was told it was a different problem and it was not covered under the recall. they problem was exactly the same, although the dealership stated otherwise. *ak
06/18/2005611/11/2004
 Steering column will not unlock after starting vehicle. vehicle was backed out of the garage and wheel couuld not be turned. key was turned off, ten second wait (following instructions on the info center) and wheel still could not be turned. with the key off the wheel was turned back and forth against the lock and then restarted. after several trys the column unlocked. this vehicle has had both phases of the recall implemented. after this failure it was taken to the dealer who informed me that everything that he could do has been done. he said a possible low battery may have caused the problem. the battery was replaced and the problem reoccured 2 days later. there is no predictabality of the defect. it could be the next start or a month from now. the only sure thing is that with no action it will happen again. this defect could cause a accident when pulling out of a parking space or garage due to inability to turn the wheel even at low speed.
06/08/200447000101/03/2002
 Early this year i got in my car and started it up and started to back up and the steering wheel locked up on me and the engine shut down.i had it toe in and repaired at a cost of over $500.00.i later found out about the recall on the inter-net contacted general motor's about getting some of my money back they refused.i will never buy another chevy if that is the way they treat people.*ak
08/01/20041
 Problem with electronic column lock on 1998 corvette. *mr the consumer suggested that, if there was a problem with the ecl system, then it would need to be fixed, not removed due to the fact that it was a feature sold with the vehicle. *sc *jb
08/26/2004530501
 When trying to start the vehicle steering column locked. vehicle was towed. a recall letter was received. column lock was replaced by the dealer at a cost to the consumer. column was still defective.*ak recall number 04v060000 *tc
08/09/20041
 While driving steering column locked, causing the steering to become inoperative. recall 04v060000 was issued. consumer's vehicle was experiencing the same problem as stated in the recall. *ak
08/10/2004760002
 Steering column locked up while vehicle running and won't unlock. vehicle is a 1998 chevrolet corvette convertible 6-speed. unable to steer vehicle. vehicle steering column is still locked and udriveable. *jb
08/10/200423000103/19/1998
 The consumer proposed that recall repairs for the steering column lock failed due to the steering column no longer locking. *ak the consumer did not agree with recall# 04v060000. *sc *jb
08/09/2004103/19/1998
 Chevrolet corvettes possibly having defective electronic steering column systems proposes to correct the defective. recall# 04v060000. *ak *sc *jb
08/09/20041
 While driving steering wheel locked up on it own. consumer applied the brakes and pedal went to the floor. consumer pulled over. consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the steering sensor needed to be replaced.*ak
07/31/200228268110/13/1997
 Recall 04 v 060 000 concerning electronic column lock. consumer stated steering column failed to unlock when the vehicle was started. vehicle was towed and repaired at the dealer. manufacturer informed the consumer that this vehicle wa snot covered under the recall due to vin. *ak
07/21/2004339002
 The consumer stated when the he started the vehicle, the steering wheel locked. the consumer submitted a complaint about this problem once before. the consumer contacted the manufacturer and was told the vehicle identification number was not apart of the recall. provide further details. *jb
06/24/200346140103/24/2003
 In short, i experienced the steering column lock error that is now recalled on certain chevy corvette. i had this repaired at my cost. my 1998 chevy corvette vin 1g1yy22g5w5101248 fell within gm's vin on the technical service bulletin 01-02-35-008, but my repairs were not performed for free, as stated in the bulletin. i have contacted gm several times only to be told that i am not eligible for reimbursement. they claim that my vehicle was and is not part of any recall, bulletin, etc. i beg to differ. i have receipts for everything and copies of the bulletins, recalls, etc. but gm still refuses to acknowledge that my car should have been repaired for free. i have been fighting with them for over a year now and i have gotten nowhere! *la *sc *jb
07/15/2004209/01/1997
 The consumer had the same problem as nhtsa campaign #04v060000: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 system. *jb the service dealer replaced the steering lock actuator which was inoperative and was an intermittent problem. *sc *jb
05/04/200439000112/21/1999
 Nhtsa recall 04v060000 concerning electronic column lock. vehicle experienced a problem with the steering column locking up when the vehicle started. dealer and the manufacturer were notified. *ak
07/13/2004443001
 After starting the vehicle and as it was accelerating the steering column locked. when this occurred vehicle stalled. the keys had to be removed from ignition, followed by aggressive shaking of steering wheel to unlock it. a recall was issued but this vehicle was not included due to vin. *ak
08/23/200247000104/30/2001
 Chevrolet has refused to acknowledge the nhtsa recall, (#04v060000), on my 1998 covette. they say it only covers the 1997 model year despite my quoting your recall notice which covers 1997-2004. the specific item and failures listed in this recall occurred in august 2002. i started the vehicle and while backing out of my garage i tried to turn the steering wheel and found it to be locked! the vehicle had to be towed to a dealer where repairs totaled well over $650.00, (using genuine gm parts which disable the column lock.*ak
07/01/2004260003
 While driving at any speed steering column locked. as a result, consumer was unable to turn left or right. recall o4v06000 was issued. however, this vehicle was not covered under recall due to vin. *ak
05/09/2004334005
 The failure described in the electronic column lock recall 04v060000 occurred on 3 separate occasions. but this vehicle was not included in the recall due to vin. *ak the steering column locked up. *sc *jb
07/02/200481573
 Recall 04v060000 concerning steering column locking. however, this vehicle is not oncluded in the recall due to vin. *ak
06/21/200472567103/28/2001
 Steering column lock activated while parking in parking lot. *ak the lock would not disengage even after repeated attempts at removing the key, moving the steering wheel, etc. the vehicle was towed to the dealer. the consumer was informed that there was a recall (recall #04v060000)for this problem but his vehicle was not included. *nm
06/20/20043
 While shifting gears, the steering column locked. the consumer was unable to unlock the steering column. the vehicle was towed to a garage and the mechanic determined that it was a security problem. *ak the vehicle would also shut off while in motion and went into security mode. *sc *jb
05/17/200464325102/01/2000
 When turning the steering wheel towards the left, it locked, which caused the consumer to drift off the road. the consumer shut the vehicle off, restarted the vehicle and the steering wheel unlocked. the consumer took the vehicle to the dealership to be inspected. *ak the consumer contacted the dealership on several occasions and was told there was a recall on corvette's, however his vehicle was not included. *jb
05/30/200449000104/01/2000
 1998 corvette mt vin:1g1yy22g3w5108246. while driving car i experienced steering column lockup as described in nhtsa campaign id: 04v060000 was told by local dealer i am not covered under the recall. it was suggested i pay the $650 repair and submit bill to gm. calls to gm state i am also not part of recall even though the problem matches gm recall 04006. gm info provided was very vague and evasive. would not show me recall notice 04006 even though i have found copies on internet. very frustrated can not drive car nor can i get gm to fix it without paying.*ak
04/24/2004310001
 Consumer complained about a steering column problem. the steering column locked. this year 's vehicle was being recalled. however, this vehicle was not included in the recall due to vin. *ak
06/01/2004104797108/01/2000
 When the consumer pulled into a parking space at 2mp, the steering column locked in place without warning. the dealership replaced the relay and wiring harness. *nm the column locked while in drive under power. there was no engine shutdown. *sc *jb
06/02/20045
 While pulling out of the driveway steering column locked up. consumer tried to unlock it but was unable to do so. consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the vehicle was operating normally. consumer informed the mechanic that this problem occurred on numerous occasions, and had not been resolved. *ak
05/19/2004392682
 Recall no.#04v060000, steering column/anti theft device: when the vehicle was put in reverse and backing out of a parking space, the steering wheel locked up. this problem has occurred twice with this vehicle. the dealer repaired the problem at cost to the consumer. *nm *nm
01/01/1901358001
 The steering lock remained locked while the vehicle was on. the mfr has recalled this defect, however the vin# for this vehicle was not included. *nm *nm
05/18/2004160000308/28/1998
 Steering column lock failure. (3rd event) today, my steering column lock failed for the third time in lake city florida. i called the chevrolett dealer in that town and was unable to get assistance with this problem. i was told tow the car in although it was unlikely that the venicle would be reviewed on the next day. this is a major defect that continually causes me problems in the most unfavorable areas for service. i informed a service writer a bill heard chavrolett about a recall on my car for this problem at least three months ago and was told that there was no recall on my car for this matter. this is a potentially dangerous and very inconvient problems that warrants immediate repair.*ak
2
 While starting up the vehicle steering wheel locked up. consumer was unable to unlock the steering wheel. vehicle was towed to the dealer for inspection, and dealer was unable to resolve the problem. *ak
04/07/199812/10/2000
 Upon starting car, the steering column remained locked, so that i could only drive in a circle. car had to be towed and a dealership installed a steering kit to repair the defect at a cost of approximately $300.00. chevrolet advises that my vehicle's identification number is not included under the recent recall for this defect. (nhtsa campaign id number 04v06000)(gm recall no. 04006)
3
 Consumer indicated that dealership performed electronic column lock recall 04v060000 repaired 3 times, but the steering wheel continued to lock up while driving. *ak *la
02/05/200461000005/05/1998
 Steering column locked & was unable to unlock it after numerous attempts at turning the wheel to the right while turning the ignition key (which is supposedly the trick). had to have car towed to 2 different shops (1st one was an independent chevy service center that couldn't find the problem). was very shocked to see that this has occurred to hundreds of other corvette owners. i was never issued a recall notice on this. why in the world not? now i have to pay for repairs. i knew i should have bought that jag instead.
09/24/2003740001
 Vehicle type: 1998 corvette. failure of electronic steering column to unlock during initial key in/vehicle start. fortunately, if the rest of the systems work, the engine will shut down after the vehicle moves a short distance. i purchased this corvette in june 2003 (i have owned older corvettes) not knowing there is this defect with not only the 1998 corvette but also with the 1997, 1999, 2000, and 2001 corvettes. beginning with the 2002 model year, this feature was removed. general motors has known about this situation for some time. they issued a customer satisfaction bulletin during sept. 2001. this bulletin covered about the last third corvettes manufactured during 1998 (serial #s 23355-31069), all of 1999 corvettes (serial #s 000001-33283) and the first half corvettes manufactured during 2000 (serials #s 000001-16233). they also have a repair kit available to correct the problem (gm part # 88952427 or 88952428 or 88952428 depending on transmission and export). this indicates to me that they know the car has a defect and are willing to pass fixing the defect on to the vehicle owner. unfortunately, the serial # of my 1998 corvette is 11791. the incident occurred, ironically, just after touring the corvette factory in bowling green, ky. it cost me $250.00 and two nights in a local motel to get my car operational. the car is still not fixed properly. after disassembling the steering column, the steering locking system was reset and disabled. the car's computer shows an error code every time the car is started. nhtsas web site shows there is an investigation open on this very problem with no conclusion. this defect may exist in other gm cars with the electronic steering lock assemblies. i do know they don't use it after 2002. *la
09/27/200373000108/07/2003
 While pulling out of a parking space steering wheel locked up. when this occurred ignition failed to operate which caused the engine to die. there was a consumers satisfaction campaign on this issue.*ak after this occurred, consumer could start the vehicle and drive it but the steering column would be locked. vehicle would move but no steering. *ph *nlm
09/14/200350900103/01/2000
 Steering wheel locked up leaving user stranded. gm states this vin# is not included in recall for same known problem.
09/11/200385000108/19/1998
 Steering column lock w/ dic code of 2588. *ph
09/09/200076000103/31/2003
 Steering wheel will not unlock after entry of key. computer reads service column lock * jb
08/25/200249450109/24/2000
 Steering wheel locked up, *ak
08/23/200345000108/15/2002
 Steering column lock failed. chevrolet did a patial recall on this item but did not include all 1998 cars.*ak
08/18/200351885108/15/2001
 Steering column will not unlock. *ak
08/06/200350000205/26/2003
 On 8-6-03 i was pulling out of a parking lot and my steering wheel locked-up. i ended up having my corvette towed home. on 8-7-03 after speaking to some service tech's at a couple of garages found out that my problem is a part that has had a recall issued and supposedly already replaced on my car. the recall # is 01044. the part was supposedly replaced on 1-17-02 when my car had approx. 43k mi. on it. i purchased the car 5-03 from an individual and had no idea that anything had ever been worked on. local dealership won't honor recall anymore so i then contacted gm. spoke to kevin may @800-222-1020 on 8-8 and 8-11-03 about honoring the recall again because the evidently didn't correct the problem and gm won't honor again. this is outrageous to me! there is obviously a problem with this part and i feel they should stand behind their products and work. why should i have to pay several hundred dollars for a problem they should fix? what if i had been driving down the interstate or been in heavy traffic? i can't afford to spend several hundred dollars every 7k mi. or so because gm won't take care of their customers and i shouldn't have to!!! this is wrong for them to do and i hope someone can help. *ak *scc
07/21/200337200305/01/2003
 Steering column lock keeps locking causing the vehicle to not respond . this has happened on three time in 3 months. vehicle has to be towed to shop to reset and repair. the last time this happened 7/21/2003 the recall work had already been done.*ak
06/26/200368508211/20/2001
 Steering column lock on 1998 chevrolet corvette while parked. once the key was turned on in the ignition, the message displayed on the dash said service column lock and the steering wheel was locked. repeated attempts still yielded the same results. the vehicle was not driveable and required towing to the dealer. the dealer indicated that this was a popular defect with this year make and model but that a recall had not been issued yet.it is my understanding that odi and the nhtsa have received at least 344 similar reports of this defect over the last 2 years (see investigation #ea02-031). i also understand that the same problem became a defect in the 2000 chev. corvette (see recall #co 1044). can someone in your office with the proper authority please instigate a recall on this defect so that others will not have to suffer the inconvenience and expense ($600 total out of pocket) that i had to endure. fortunately i was unable to drive the vehicle when this event occurred. i would hate to think of the safety issue surrounding a moving vehicle having the steering column lock. i understand that it is not uncommon for the steering column to lock on subsequent repairs. i urge you to please initiate a recall. i would also be appreciatiative if gm would step up to the plate and reimburse me, and others before me, for the costs on repairing this defect. thank you in advance for your prompt attention and consideration on this matter. *ak
440001
 While driving steering wheel becomes locked. there is no warning. *ak
440001
 Upon starting the vehicle steering wheel locked up. cause unknown. *ak
06/05/2003109/01/2002
 1998 corvette c-5. steering wheel locked. told our vin # was not in the recall campaign range. how can this be when all c5's have the same problem??*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs thank goodness this happened while stopped. i can't imagine what would have happened if we had been moving.
1
 While driving, the steering wheel locked up. *jb did not count in ea02-031 (duplicate of odi# 10022859)
05/30/200367729109/04/2001
 While driving, the steering column suddenly locked. consumer could not go forward (barrier) forcing him to back up. *tt ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/18/20031
 Steering column lock malfunctioned and locked up. *tt ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/01/200249000111/01/1997
 Steering column locked up and could not be unlocked. car was in parking lot at the time. *jb ***dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis****770778 ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/03/200346912202/18/1999
 Steering column locks upon start up. this is second occurrence . this makes all movement except in the direction that the front wheel were locked. if the front wheels are not locked in the directly forward position, placing the car on a flat bed is next to impossible. a recall has been issued but my car is not within the break point range so i was not entitled to reduced cost repair and was not entitled to the available installation of the appropriate fix. *jb ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/05/2003680002
 Steering column motor on my 1998 chevrolet corvette defective for the second time in one year causing the steering column to lock and be inoperable. *jb ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
11/14/200232226111/06/2002
 The steering wheel locked on the vehicle. *jb
11/14/200232226111/06/2002
 The steering wheel locked on the vehicle. *jb ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/04/20023427204/14/1998
 Steering column locked on 1998 corvette - did not lock while vehicle was moving - remained locked after starting vehicle from parked position ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/20/2002285941
 Steering colum lock up and shifter lock up ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/13/200238000112/07/2001
 Steering column lock up. ph ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
11/29/200263000109/11/1997
 Consumer had problems with the steering. also stated that while driving was involved into a collision which he thinks it was caused do to steering problems. dealer was not contacted at the time of this called. ts *tt
07/18/20023600005/20/1998
 Steering column locked up 1998 corvette. car started and was able to move, but there was no steering as the column locked up. ts ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
12/11/20025309605/07/2000
 Steering column lockup. with the key in the ingnition and the engine running, the steering column lock fails to release. thus making the vehicle inpossible to drive. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/17/2000308/01/1997
 On at least 3 occasions the steering wheel on my 1998 corvette would not unlock after the car was cranked. after numerous attempts of removing the key and restarting the car the steering wheel finally unlocked. i contacted the local chevrolet dealer who did not know what caused the problem or how to fix the problem. on july 18, 2001, i received a letter from chevrolet ( recall c01044) stating that your corvette may have been built with a condition in which the steering wheel may not unlock when the key is turned to the on position. i was relieved to find out that my problem was going to be fixed. i contacted the local chevrolet dealer, carter chevrolet, to make an appointment but was informed that the recall was for my 2000 corvette (which is not having the problem) not my 1998 corvette (which is having the problem). i also was informed that some 1998 models were included in the recall, but not mine. next, i contacted chevrolet customer service which informed me that my car was not included in the recall and nothing would be done. they could not tell my why some 1998 models were included in the recall and not mine. i am extremely concerned that chevrolet knew that the recall did not include all the models which has this problem. i am sure there are numerous corvette owners not included in the recall which are affected by the problem. would you please investigate why all 1998 models with this problem were not recalled. thanks for your assistance. *ak
08/17/2000308/01/1997
 On at least 3 occasions the steering wheel on my 1998 corvette would not unlock after the car was cranked. after numerous attempts of removing the key and restarting the car the steering wheel finally unlocked. i contacted the local chevrolet dealer who did not know what caused the problem or how to fix the problem. on july 18, 2001, i received a letter from chevrolet ( recall c01044) stating that your corvette may have been built with a condition in which the steering wheel may not unlock when the key is turned to the on position. i was relieved to find out that my problem was going to be fixed. i contacted the local chevrolet dealer, carter chevrolet, to make an appointment but was informed that the recall was for my 2000 corvette (which is not having the problem) not my 1998 corvette (which is having the problem). i also was informed that some 1998 models were included in the recall, but not mine. next, i contacted chevrolet customer service which informed me that my car was not included in the recall and nothing would be done. they could not tell my why some 1998 models were included in the recall and not mine. i am extremely concerned that chevrolet knew that the recall did not include all the models which has this problem. i am sure there are numerous corvette owners not included in the recall which are affected by the problem. would you please investigate why all 1998 models with this problem were not recalled. thanks for your assistance. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
01/01/20013
 When first starting vehicle steering would not unlock. consumer unable to drive vehicle to dealer, will have to be towed. this is the 3 time that column lock has gone out, causing loss of steering.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/10/19992
 Consumer had a problems with the steering column locking up on several occasions, dealership instructed how to unlock steering column. *et
10/27/1999110/05/1999
 Steering lock module shorted out causing steering wheel to lock. mjs (did not count in numbers for ea02-031; duplicate of odi# 852313.)
STEERING - GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
08/09/20022
 The steering coulmn box locked up when i had it in reverse and backing out of a parking spot. . i had it towed to chevy dealership to have the 98 vette worked on. i was told i had to replace the steering box . which was a $270 part. if i was driving on the interstate and the steering locked up on me. then what? . thank you for your time. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
11/15/2001106/01/1998
 Gmc issued a recall for this problem, my vin was not covered, so gmc said i had to pay, even though my car has the same problem with the same failed part, my vin is very close to those affected. no safety defect mentioned. *ak
07/30/20001204/01/1998
 Replacement seatbelts not stocked, revised design not perfected.
05/26/2000305/01/1998
 The dealer denied of any recall, and said that i was mistaken in thinking there was a recall. it's real sad that our local chevy dealer isn't even aware there's a recall! no safety defect listed within summary. *ak
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
10/25/2002107/19/1999
 Vehicle was experiencing the same defect stated in recall #92 v 160 000 for the steering hose unit, however vehicle was not included due to the vin. mr the vehicle could be driven while the steering wheel was in the locked position. *jg *jb ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
02/04/1999102/01/1999
 1-steering loose and unsafe/2-eng stumbles and dies/3-eng rattles in gear/4-drivers seat loose/5-gas milage dropping/6-all codes errased by themself. *ak
STEERING - LINKAGES
101/01/1998
 I am very concerned about the listed vehicle and loose hardware, especially nuts or fasteners in steering or control areas that come loose or off during normal driving creating crash hazards. i am concerned. need help. *ak
STEERING - WHEEL AND HANDLE BAR
111/21/1999
 When the driver attempted to put the vehicle into reverse it stalled. this incident repeated approximately five times at which time the consumer noticed a message on the driver information center stating something about a locked steering wheel. the consumer turned the vehicle off and waited about fifteen minutes, afterwhich the vehicle started and operated as normal *mr *scc *nlm ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
10/15/200204/01/2002
 Not able to move steering wheel. mr ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
 While backing vehicle up and turning, the steering column locked. the vehicle had to be towed to the dealership which then told him that the failure was due to a steering actuator. please describe details
07/01/20012
 Consumer states that the steering column will lock up and cause the steering wheel not to turn, and is very concerned about what damage a locked steering could cause himself and others in a physical /property damage. consumer also feel he should be compensated with reimbursement for the reoccuring problem. *scc ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/16/2002
 While driving at any speed and with no warning steering wheel will lock up, and consumer will lose control of vehicle. it could have caused consumer to have an accident. dealer notified. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/13/20022
 Car reported steering column locked (which it was). this car has an electronic lock, not physically connected to the ignition key. lock engaged and would not disengage after starting car. had to tow car to dealer. tow truck driver cited another example with same car model in which lock engaged while vehicle was in motion on street., and narrowly missed an accident. this is a dangerous situation, and is apparently quite common in this model corvette. nlm ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/01/2002207/01/2099
 Steering column locked twice since 1999. last time (08/2002) was while car was in reverse and backing up. had to pay around $450 to have corrected. gm said there had not been any other complaints re: this problem; but i just read an article in automotive news titled feds examine vette streering.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/05/20021
 Comsumer states while pulling out of her drive way the steering wheel locked up.*jb ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/22/2002
 Failure of the steering lock column during initial start-up. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/16/2002106/01/2002
 Steering wheel locked after starting vehicle and was able to shift to drive with steering wheel locked. i am concerned with the steering wheel locking while driving the vehicle and causing an accident.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/18/2002303/01/2000
 Steering column has locked-up frozen on me three times. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/13/2002
 Steering wheel column locked up, unable to steer . contacted dealer.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/12/2002201/23/2002
 Steering wheel locked up upon startup, the dealer installed harness kit and relay. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/02/2002101/01/2001
 On 08/02/02 i was backing my vehicle out of a parking space when the steering wheel locked up and would not unlock. the vehicle had to be towed to a dealership to be repaired. the dealership, terry cullen chevrolet in morrow ga, stated that this a common problem with the corvette. i contacted chevrolet and they refused to admit that there is a probelm with this part even though there was a recall for this problem in 1997 and apparently on some 98 models.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/28/2002
 While driving at 5 mph in reverse steering wheel locked up, and consumer could not control vehicle. contacted dealer. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/24/2002105/07/2002
 While driving steering wheel locked up. contacted dealer. as a result of steering locking up motor was defective.*akconsumer states there is a recall regarding this defect, but this vehicle does not fall under the parameters of the recall. *jg ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/19/2002112/01/2097
 Vehicle was parked. after starting the steering wheel would not turn. dashbord message stated remove key wait ten seconds. i did and restarted the vehicle but the steering wheel would not turn. dashboard message stated service steering column. after repeated attempts of stopping, starting vehicle and trying to turn the wheel it remained locked. i called aaa for a tow truck - while waiting for it to arrive i continued to try to unlock the wheel. after around twenty minutes of trying it finally unlocked. i cancelled the tow truck and drove to the dealer. if i had known the steering wheel could lock again while i was driving, as i determined by subsequent internet research, i would not have driven to the dealer. my out of pocket cost for the dealer's replacement of the steering column lock was $100 because i have an extended warranty. this is a serious safety concern and should be the subject of a recall.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/02/2002112/01/2000
 Steering column remains locked after car is started. the following message appears: service column lock. the column lock does not disengage. the car is being towed to the dealership. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/05/2002107/01/2001
 My steering column locked up while the vehicle was moving causing a total loss of steering. the front of the car was slightly damaged because of this. it is a known problem by gm affecting many vehicles outside of their so called pool of vin. #'s. it is a matter of time before innocent people are harmed by this if it has not happened already.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/10/2002105/01/2002
 Steering column locked up while backing out of driveway. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/05/2002
 While starting vehicle steering locked up, and consumer could no longer turn wheel or control vehicle. contacted dealer, and dealer was not willing to do anything.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
 Steering column locks up when starting up. can't move steering wheel. dealer contacted. please add vin. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
04/26/2002204/01/2002
 I inserted the key, like normal, started the engine, put into reverse, and backed up and while backing, the steering column locked up via computer control. i've heard of this happening to other owners/drivers while they were driving. this is very unsafe! i cannot get any co-operation from general motors at all!!! ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
04/12/2002310/01/2001
 Gm has recalled vehicle beginning with vin# w5123355. the steering column will not unlock when vehicle has been started.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
03/16/2002104/01/2000
 Steering column locked up while driving! *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
302/01/2000
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
02/21/2002
 On numerous occasions and upon starting vehicle steering wheel locks up. consumer has to cut off car and restart it. please provide any further information. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/19/2001202/01/1998
 Steering wheel locked up when going into drive. once in drive while moving the engine stopped and i hit the curb taking off some paint. if this would have happened on a highway i would have die. i called gmc, but they said that my car did not have this problem so there was nothing they could do at this time. on the web and on your site i see that my model year does have this problem. i said to gm i seems to me that this will only be a problem for you when i am kill in this car and my family will sue you for million of dollars which you will pay only to keep it out of court and the news papers. i feel that you at the nhtsa should do what you say people saving people. if i was the only person that you save maybe you will have done what you say. i think the only way that gm will do anything is if you get involed.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/20/2001312/01/1997
 Steering colmum has failed to unlock on three occaisions, once at the dealer, twice after being parked. vehicle has required flatbed transportation to dealer 2 times. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/22/2001105/01/2001
 Went to start car - car would start - steering wheel would not turn - message to remove key and wait 10 seconds came across dashboard - also message of service column locked - tried for 30 minutes - called dealer for info - was told to take to chevy dealer - had to have car towed - chevy dealer told me there was nothing wrong ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/19/200105/01/2001
 Steering column locks and will not release. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/27/2001111/01/1997
 Column lock - when i went to start my car column lock would not unlock. tried jiggling wheel, etc for 45 minutes then called a taxi.*ak
07/08/2001106/01/2001
 I have read reports of many incidents concerning the steering column-lock problem on the corvettes by the owners themselves. some have even reported that this problem has occurred while in motion, which scares the hell out of me! i did have mine in for this repair and i can only hope that it does not happen again. luckily, mine happened while the vehicle was parked. please do something about this before someone gets hurt or killed!!!*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
03/01/2001302/01/2001
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
07/24/2001111/01/1999
 When attempting to start car, engine would not start and driver information display read remove key and wait 10 seconds. key was removed, and after 15 seconds, attempts made to restart car. engine then started, but driver information display read service steering column lock at which time i attempted to turn steering wheel and found it would not turn in either direction. engine then stopped running after about 15 seconds. i attempted to restart car a number of times, but same problems persisted. i removed and checked fuze #23 per chevrolet repair manual, but fuze was okay. again attempted to restart car, but same problem was still present (steering wheel was locked and couldn't be turned). tow truck operator later advised that he had towed five corvettes with smae apparent problem in last two weeks. chevrolet delaer subsequently advised that chevrolet initiated a recall this week, but for 1999 corvettes (and possibly newer, only). my 1998 is apparently not covered by the recall. this problem would be particularly dangerous if it occurred while the vehicle was moving.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/01/2001310/01/1997
 Once again steering column locked-up for the third time. had to have vehicle towed to dealership for repairs.repairs are still being covered on warranty. i still feel that this is a safety issue !*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/06/2001207/01/1999
 This problem is wide spread. please reopen investigation. no safety defec t mentioned. *ak
06/28/2001510/01/1999
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
06/28/2001111/01/1998
 While pulling out of a parking lot space, my steering column locked. i had to have it towed to a repair shop.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/18/2001101/01/1998
 Started car, proceeded to put in gear and drive off, could not turn vehicle, got a message on dic stating service steering column lock had to have car towed to dealer to reset computer codes to unlock column. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/11/2001106/01/1999
 This is the second time i have submitted this form. disregard the first form sent earlier which was on odi #746729. it was accidentally sent with incomplete information. on 6/11/01 while backing out of my parking place at work, my steering locked up. i called two local dealers with no solution. i called customer service in detroit and they were no help at all. since my 1998 c5 corvetter was in motion when it locked up, i assume it can happen when going down the freeway at 60 mph. this is very, very scary. can you help? *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/11/20011
 No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak
05/29/2001201/01/2001
 Steering wheel lock refused to disengage without repeated attempts by shutting off and removing key, reinserting. has happened twice so far. concerned that defective lock could engage while driving. also, could strand car if i can't get it to disengage. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/01/200107/01/2000
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
09/01/2000103/01/1998
 I was a victim of the corvette steering-column lock. i read an article just now that a spokesman of the nhtsa said it is a definite problem, but not a safety issue. this is a ridiculous statement considering the fact that without warning a driver can be stranded anywhere at anytime. in my opinion, and i'll bet somewhere in the judicial system they'll agree with me, gm is blatantly placing corvette drivers and their passengers in danger of being stranded anywhere at anytime and in my opinion should be held completely and without recourse responsible for any harm< damage
03/12/2000311/01/1997
 The steering wheel locked up while in motion. steering column lock appears in the dash board . i was unable to steer the car. the engine turned off. this is while driveing. two other times it occured while parked in my garage. the dealer repared the motor that causes the steering column to lock.speed at failure wa s20-25 mph. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/07/2000208/01/2000
 On two occasions, once while driving at 35mph, the steering column completely locked up and could not control vehicle. narrowly missed being in an accident. upon researching this problem, it has been reported by other corvette owners. the dealers solution was to remove the key for 10 seconds and try again. this is unacceptable and very dangerous. i am now afraid to even drive the car. will it take a head on collision before gm fixes this very unsafe defect? please send whatever papers necessary to sign so that this is thoroughly investigated. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/15/2000107/01/1999
 Steering column locked up and car died while backing out of parking space on friday evening. dealer could not work on it until monday and car was ready monday evening. they 'replaced the steering lock solenoid and relay pier tac' (their words and spelling). i am concerned that if this happens while i am pulling out into traffic, i could be involved in a traffic fatality. i've researched this problem and found countless similar problems reported on the web site www.corvetteforum.com. it seems to re-occur after repair. gm has known about the defect since 1997 and done nothing to fix it. how many complaints will it take before the nhtsa forces gm into a recall? ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/12/2000103/01/2000
 I have a 1998 c5. last night i was driving down a driveway when the service column lock appeared on the dic display. the message pull key and wait 10 seconds appeared as well. the steering column locked up and the car shut down. i was in motion going down the driveway when this happened. once the car came to a stop, i had to push it back up the drive way to get it out of the way, since the engine would shut off if when i tried to restart the car. i tried multiple times to restart the car, hoping it would unlock the steering column. it did not unlock. i am very upset that a theft deterrent device is more of a safety hazard! i don't know what would have happened if i were on the road somewhere and the steering column would have decided to lock up. what if kids were near the car and the car decided to lock the steering and shut down? when the car shuts down you loose control of the car and power brakes. this 'feature' is not safe if it decides to randomly lock up the steering column. this is totally unacceptable for chevrolet's american sports car to have a security safety flaw in it. i refuse to own a car by any company if the security feature which was meant to protect the car from being stolen, actually may cause injury or worse to the owner or passenger riding in the vehicle. what is the fix for this issue? i do not want the same parts replaced for this. this is a faulty part on the part of gm and should be resolved as quickly as possible. i have read about other c5 owners and the same experiences they had. this car retailed for over $41,000. a car of this stature, class, and price should be safe to drive at all times. i have made gm aware that i have filed a complaint with the nhtsa to look into this issue. what would gm do for a stranded customer, who is out in the middle of nowhere, and that cells phones are not accessible for communication? this is a dangerous feature *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/30/2000103/01/1998
 This complaint regards the steering column locking up. this appears to be a common occurance according to my corvette sources. mine locked up last week and required that the vehicle be towed to the dealer. my concern is that should this happen again, i may be in a place where assistance is limited. the vehicle failure occured in my garage as i was leaving the house. the problem i encountered was that the wheel was not straight which required a lot of effort to get the car out of the garage and on to a wrecker.
08/30/2000103/01/1998
 This complaint regards the steering column locking up. this appears to be a common occurance according to my corvette sources. mine locked up last week and required that the vehicle be towed to the dealer. my concern is that should this happen again, i may be in a place where assistance is limited. the vehicle failure occured in my garage as i was leaving the house. the problem i encountered was that the wheel was not straight which required a lot of effort to get the car out of the garage and on to a wrecker. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
09/06/2000
 Pe99066; steering column lock module: upon starting vehicle and driving about 50 feet, steering wheel locked up. after letting vehicle sit for 5 hours and removing the battery, problem cleared up. owner experienced the same problem a couple of weeks ago, but vehicle only sat a few minutes before steering wheel unlocked. please provide any further information.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
08/24/2000108/01/1997
 My steering wheel would not unlock, since this vehicle has a manual transmission i put it in gear and started to back away from the garage when i went to turn so as not to hit a wall the steering wheel was locked. it would not unlock and had to be towed to the dealership for repairs. it's dangerous because the car should not be able to go into a gear if the vehicle cannot be steered. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/01/1999105/01/1999
 Steering wheel lockup got message service steering column ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/28/2000103/01/1999
 Steer column would not unlock after the vehicle was started. vehicle had to be towed to dealer for replacement of the steering column lock actuator. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/28/2000106/01/1998
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
08/05/2000108/01/2000
 Im started my car, put it in drive and drove off. i noticed my steering wheel was locked. the engine died almost right away. i was going about 3 mph. i restarted the engine several times trying to free the steering. nothing worked. i had to back my car out of the street with no steering. the next morning the steering started working again. after talking to some corvette club member, i found out that this is very common to happen on late model corvettes. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/15/200010/01/1997
 The seat belts twist and jam in the belt guides. i have been able to unjam them every time with some fiddling. however it is time consuming and sometimes it happens with the belt on and this makes it very difficult to drive with the belt locked in one position. the steering column lock failed to disengage and the steering wheel won't turn. i am in a corvette club and this is a common problem with 1997, 1998, and early 1999's. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/15/2000304/01/2000
 The steering column locked while pulling from the parking lot thrice in one month. the dealer replaced some parts on it, but had to tow the car in. a serach on this nhtsa site itself indicates numerous complaints with this car with precisely the same problem. i am amazed that nothing has been done on it so far and what are the authorities actually waiting for. they are probably waiting for someone to die with this defect before they take action. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/03/2000102/01/2000
 This problem is endemic to 1997-on c5 corvettes! no safety defect listed in summary. *ak
 While driving steering column locked up, causing steering to become difficult cause unknown. please give any further details.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/11/2000210/01/1997
 This is the second time this problem has happened 1st may,99 2nd july,00 its a good thing vehicle was not moving when it occurred. *ak
06/24/2000105/01/2000
 Steering column locked and i could not turn the wheel to drive it. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/10/2000107/01/1998
 Steering column locked up while parked and would not unlock with the key inserted and engine running. error message - service column lock, pull key wait 10 seconds. pulling the key had no effect. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/03/2000210/01/1998
 Steering wheel lock will not disengage!! this is a major problem based on service bulletins and number of postings to various bulletin boards! make them fix this!!. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/03/20000
 Steering column locked up even when operating vehicle, a warning light indicated to pull key and wait 10 seconds, but it had no affect. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/26/2000106/01/1999
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
06/28/2000101/01/1998
 While backing out of a parking space steering column locked up. problem could potentially cause a crash. vehicle was towed to dealership and repaired. *ak *ml ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
06/25/20001
 While backing out of the driveway all of a sudden the steering wheel locked up. dealership was not aware of this problem. nothing was done about this problem. also seatbelt does not retract. *ak *ml ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/23/2000403/01/2000
 I have received the following message 4 times on my 98 corvette - column service lock on. the steering column locks and the car is not driveable. i have been stranded four times. this car is under warranty, yet gmc does not recognize this as a serious problem. this problem results in the car being non-driveable, and the possibility of being stranded at any time in any place makes this a saftey issue. i have researched the column service lock problem extensively on the internet, and have found that this problem is very common in most c5 (97 - 00) corvettes - this is not an isolated occurrence. gm should recall all c5s and correct this severe defect. i have even heard that this has happend to individuals while the car is in motion, does someone have to die before gmc takes this seriously?? *ak
06/13/2000509/01/1999
 Today the column lock failed for the 5th time on my 1998 corvette. once the column locked on me after i had begun to leave a parking lot and the car shut down on me. had i been at an intersection, i might have been seriously injured or killed. fortunately (or unfortunately as it may be) the other times the column lock failed to release were after i had parked the car and returned. so far, i have only been greatly inconvenienced or had my friends inconvenienced, but i am aware taht this problem is not uncommon among c5 owners. it is time for a recall folks! enough of under consideration.*ak
06/13/2000105/20/1999
 Vehicle started and drove with steering wheel in locked position due to electric solenoid. dealer has been notified.*ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
03/15/2000003/01/1998
 When starting up car steering wheel was locked, consumer tried all gears, it still would not unlock . had to have car towed. consumer felt that this was a safety issue because it could have locked up while driving. took to dealer, and it was a bad solenoid switch. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
11/24/1999210/01/1997
 This is the second time the steering column has failed to unlock upon starting the engine. fortunately, both times were in the garage. the computer detects the failed column lock and prevents the car from being driven by shutting the engine down after moving a couple of feet. my concern is this has been repaired once. is there a possibility the column could lock while driving ? even if the engine shuts down, i would still be in a very dangerous situation. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
10/16/1999202/14/1998
 Steering column locked up while driving, causing the vehicle to become undriveable. dealer has replaced the steering lock module and rocker studs. manufacturer has been notified. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
11/01/1999
 While pulling into a parking lot, driving about 15 mph the steering wheel locked up and vehicle lost all power. the vehicle was towed to owner's home. the problem was reported to the dealership. the vehicle has not been repaired. please provide any further information. *ak ref. in ea02-031 cjs
04/07/1999104/01/1998
 When pulling out of gas station the car suddenly died halfway into the omcoming traffic lane. the dic (dashboard) dignosis said to pull key and wait 10 seconds. apparently the steering wheel was locked and the engine shutoff. this put me in dangerous situation with on coming traffic heading at me. after the 10 seconds , the car restarted and all was ok, no accident resulted , but escaped a a narrow bullet. the dealer was more than happy to replace the parts , but intimated that the new parts may do the same thing since they haven't been modified. he said to wait and see if it happens again. in my opinion this could be very serious, and gm needs to address or modify the current parts so that this cannot happen again. thank you ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
05/01/1999309/01/1997
 In may of this year, 1999, i tried to start the car, it started but the steering wheel was locked. i called the toll free number general motors provided for a tow truck . when it came the driver was able to unlock the wheel and it seemed to work properly. i had it towed in to my service dealer anyway to be checked out. of course it was o.k. about two months later the steering wheel became locked again and i was able to unlock it myself by cleaning off the ignition chip on the key, as i was told by the service manager on the previous trip. the third time it locked up on me again but i was not able to unlock it. all three times i was at home in the carport. the car would always start, as in previous times, but this time it would die when i tried to back up or go forward. obviously the problem had gotten worse. i called the tow truck again, had the car towed in and luckily it stayed locked so the servicemen could see just what was happening. their computers found a code b2587 which meant that the lock module for the steering column was failing intermitantly, thus locking up the steering. the module was replaced and so far the car has been running fine. if whoever concerned goes on-line to c5-corvette.com then ultimate bulletin board, c5 specific technical discussions you will see other instances of this particular problem, one instance of this happening while the car is on the road. i hope this is enough information for you to get a good idea of what has been going on. i love the car but am a little afraid of the steering locking up when i'm on the road even though the service manager said that wouldn't happen. if someone can help me or at least reassure me of this i would be very grateful. thank you for your time. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
04/08/1999103/01/1998
 The steering wheel lock engaged as i was backing out of driveway. car was towed to dealer as ordered by chevrolet hot line..note> car was in motion, that means moving backwards..it had gone about 6 feet and i had turned the wheel to change directions when lock engaged.. ref. in ea02-031 *cjs
07/28/2019
 Engine check light comes on/ steering wheel column locks up, and vehicle stalls unexpectedly. currently at the dealers. please provide further information. *ak ref. in ea02-031 *cjs consumer was able to move vehicle about 1 ft.