saraheagle3
Viper Steering Controls Dead, All Functions Failed
4 comment(s)
saraheagle3 (Author)
Thanks for sharing your experience. My last service was at 135000 KM, about 2 months ago. After checking the control module diagnostics again, I noticed some additional sensor issues that could point to a wiring problem. The control failure pattern matches what you described, with intermittent response before complete failure. My steering wheel moves smoothly with no unusual sounds. I have the base SRT model. Before taking it to a workshop, I tried disconnecting the battery for 30 minutes to reset the system, but the multifunction steering controls remained unresponsive. Will check with a local specialist about replacing the connection unit you mentioned.
thomasstorm1
Based on those additional details, it definitely sounds like the same steering wheel control issue I faced. The failed reset attempt after battery disconnection further confirms my suspicion about the wiring harness problem in the steering column. The symptoms align perfectly, smooth wheel movement but complete loss of control module functionality. Since you mentioned additional sensor issues in the vehicle diagnostics, this strengthens the case for a damaged connection unit. These connectivity problems often cascade into multiple error codes even when the root cause is singular. In my repair, they found the wiring had worn through at a specific flex point in the steering column. The 135000 KM on your odometer is right around when these connectivity problems typically surface in the SRT models. One note of caution: make sure the workshop specifically checks the entire length of the wiring harness. Some techs only replace the visible damaged section, but in my case, they found additional wear points that needed addressing to prevent future malfunction indicator warnings. The repair cost should be similar to what I paid since the base SRT uses the same steering control assembly as my GTS. The 95€ price tag included the complete connection unit replacement.
saraheagle3 (Author)
Thanks for the detailed response! You saved me a lot of time focusing on the right repair direction. I will get the full wiring harness checked out since you mentioned those hidden wear points. Good call about checking the entire length, I would hate to fix just part of it only to have another section fail later. Just booked an appointment with a certified workshop for next week. They confirmed they can do a complete vehicle diagnostics scan and inspect the steering column wiring. The initial quote is around 110€ including parts and labor, which sounds reasonable based on your experience. The multifunction steering controls are pretty essential for daily driving, so I am relieved this seems like a manageable fix rather than a major control module replacement. Will update once I get it repaired in case anyone else runs into similar malfunction indicator warnings with their Viper steering wheel. Thanks again for walking me through your repair experience. Really helped me understand what I am dealing with.
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thomasstorm1
Had the exact same connectivity problem on my 2011 Viper GTS last summer. With some experience working on these models, I can tell you the steering wheel control failures are pretty common in this series. The multifunction steering wheel completely stopped responding, no audio controls, no cruise control, nothing. The diagnostic system showed multiple electrical faults just like yours. Took it to a workshop where they found a damaged cable connection in the steering column. The wiring harness between the steering wheel and column had worn out, causing intermittent connection issues that eventually led to complete failure. Total repair cost was 95€, which covered the replacement of the connection unit and labor. The fix took about 2 hours and has worked perfectly since then. Before offering more specific advice: Which exact Viper trim level do you have? Have you noticed any occasional flickering of the controls before they completely failed? Does your steering wheel make any unusual sounds when turning? These details would help determine if you are dealing with the same steering wheel issue I encountered.