I finally managed to download the correct wiring diagram; thanks to merlinj79.
I see the relay you identified as feeding the steering column lock. It is in the Central Junction Box and labeled PCB.
I assume this indicates that it is a non-serviceable relay soldered to the CJB (aka Body Control Module?) printed circuit board.
It also shows that this relay is energized by voltage from the Instrument Panel Cluster.
Now to determine where it's failing. Anyone have any success having these components repaired?
Thanks again.

 

I've never done it, but I know some North America VINs don't have the steering wheel lock. It's been disabled after a certain VIN number.. You can read about that in the service manual. Have you considered seeing if you can do that from SDD? I have no idea how, but if you could, it would save you and your customer a lot of grief and $$.

 

I'm all for saving grief and $$.
I poked around with the SDD today and did find a section for Car Configuration File and steering column lock was listed.
I wasn't able to change the setting, though. I'll keep looking.
Any idea at what VIN the change took place? I could try a later VIN.
Thanks again.

 

Page 2059.

• NOTE: On North American Specification (NAS) vehicles, a running change was introduced during 2008 Model Year (MY) to
disable the electric steering column lock. Under the change, the internal electronics (printed circuit board (PCB), motor,
etc.) of the lock have been removed and the lock has been disabled in the car configuration file. The change is
incorporated on VIN (vehicle identification number) 082896, 085531, 085622, 085685, 085832, 085891, 085942, 085987,
086049, 086081, 086123, 086178, 086276, 086287, 086309, 086363, 086383, 086389, 086398, 086403 and 091770
onwards.

Looking at the thread, the VIN of the vehicle you're working on is too early, but if LR did it, I would think so can you.

 

If memory serves, the pre delivery options section should allow addition or removal/disabiling by buyer options. If not, then you would have to do it in "engineering mode". Whatever you do, write it down if it works and post it here . It might be in the section that includes "transportation mode".

Flashing ecus and modules carry a big risk and make sure the laptop is plugged into the wall and the car is connected to a supply charger with a constant supply of 13 volts at 25amps.

 

Thanks Thor,
I have not tried pre-delivery mode but I will.
I'm not at all familiar with engineering mode (on IDS/SDD?) but I'll look for it.
I am using a Midtronics clean power supply and laptop plugged in as you suggest.
I'll keep you all posted.
Thanks again. P

 

Great read/learning thread below and you can do a search on "steering column lock" or "engineering mode" on freel2.com. remember you can end up with a brick!

Autobox's gear display on instruments (& more)

 

^^^ is not for mere mortals.

 

So far, no progress on this.
I can access Car Configuration File with IDS/SDD, and Steering Column Lock is one of the parameters, but I don't see an option to change settings.
Since this was a production change I had hoped that it would appear as an available option but this doesn't seem to be the case.
I hate to think I'm a few key strokes away from a legitimate solution. Frustrating.

 

Is your SDD fully updated?