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maryfrost1

Dead Steering Column Power Adjust: GL6 Fix Guide

My steering column adjustment stopped working and throws an error code. The electric adjustment feature is completely dead, no movement up/down or in/out. Car is a 2017 Buick GL6 with 85k on the clock. Has anyone dealt with this steering issue before? Looking for advice on potential fixes and rough repair costs before heading to a shop.

4 comment(s)

stefanthunder11

Had a similar steering column adjustment issue with my 2014 Buick Enclave last winter. The electric adjustment stopped working completely with no response when using the controls. The problem turned out to be a damaged wire harness connector at the steering column. Moisture had gotten into the connection point and corroded several pins, breaking the circuit for the adjustment motor. This created an electric adjustment failure and triggered the error code. This is actually a relatively common steering issue on these models. While not a safety concern for driving, since the column stays locked in position, it does need addressing to restore proper functionality. The repair involved: Testing the column adjustment motor, Replacing the corroded wire harness connector, Recalibrating the steering column control module Total repair time was about 2 hours at the shop. Worth mentioning that attempting DIY electrical repairs on steering components isnt recommended due to the safety systems involved. Would suggest having a certified shop diagnose the exact cause, as similar symptoms can also stem from a failed motor or control module in the steering column assembly.

maryfrost1 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Enclave steering column adjustment issue. I am having the exact same mechanical fault with my GL6, complete failure of the electric controls and an error code. Good to know about the wire harness being a common problem point. The steering adjustment is totally dead on mine too. Based on your description, it sounds like I likely have the same root cause. Were you happy with how the repair held up? Would be really helpful to know roughly what you paid for the fix, and if any other related steering issues have popped up since getting it repaired.

stefanthunder11

Thanks for asking about the repair results. The electronic steering adjustment has worked flawlessly since getting it fixed. The mechanic found and resolved the issue, it was indeed a faulty cable connection causing the electric adjustment system to fail completely. The repair came in fairly reasonable at 95€ for fixing the defective wiring connection. Given how critical proper steering function is, this seemed like a good value for resolving the mechanical fault. No additional steering problems have occurred in the months since the repair. The electric adjustment now works smoothly in all directions, both the up/down and in/out movements function perfectly. The error code cleared immediately after the fix and hasnt returned. Based on my experience, having a professional diagnose and repair these steering failure issues is definitely worth it for a lasting solution. If your symptoms match what I experienced, you can likely expect a similar straightforward fix and cost. Just make sure to use a shop familiar with electronic steering systems in these models.

maryfrost1 (Author)

I took my GL6 to the repair shop yesterday based on the advice here. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed the wire harness connector causing the electric steering adjustment failure. They found corrosion in the connection points, just like described. The repair process went smoothly, they replaced the damaged connector and recalibrated the steering column systems. Total cost came to €120 for parts and labor, which seemed reasonable considering the electronic steering components involved. Got the car back same day and the steering adjustment is working perfectly now. All movements are smooth and the error code is gone. Really glad I checked here first, saved me from worrying about a more serious steering issue and helped me know what to expect at the shop. Thanks again for the detailed explanation of your similar experience. Definitely helped me make an informed decision about the repair.

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