Dead Steering Wheel Controls? Check Module Connection First

Had the same problem with my 2013 Chevy Silverado. The multifunction steering controls stopped working completely, no response from any buttons. Got similar error codes too. With some basic DIY experience, I first thought I could fix it myself but quickly realized the steering column needed professional attention. Turned out to be a worn cable connection in the steering wheel, pretty common issue in these models. The workshop found the clockspring (that spiral cable inside the steering wheel) had failed, causing the connection problems. Total repair was 95 Euro, mainly labor costs since they only needed to replace the cable connector, not the entire steering wheel. What's your mileage and have you noticed any clicking sounds when turning the wheel? That could help pinpoint if you're dealing with the same issue. Also, are you getting specific error codes? Would help to know those to confirm if it's the same problem I had with my Silverado.

Thanks for the feedback about the clockspring, that's exactly what I was worried about. Just had the service done at 18541 KM and they didn't mention any steering control issues during inspection, so this must be a recent connectivity problem. The control module is definitely acting up, and those clicking sounds you mentioned are there, especially when turning left. I'll get the vehicle diagnostics readout from the shop to confirm, but it's sounding more and more like the same clockspring malfunction you dealt with. Good to know it might not need a complete steering wheel replacement. Just hoping I can get the same reasonable repair cost you did, rather than having to replace the entire steering column assembly.

Yeah, that clicking sound with the non-responsive steering controls is a classic sign of the clockspring issue, exactly what I experienced. The vehicle diagnostics should confirm it, but those symptoms match perfectly with what happened on my Silverado. The good news is that since you caught it early, you're probably looking at just the clockspring replacement like I needed. The control module itself is usually fine, it's just not getting the signals through that faulty connection. My repair held up great and all steering controls have worked perfectly since the fix. Quick tip based on my experience, while they're in there replacing the clockspring, have them check the wiring harness connections too. My shop found some minor corrosion on the connectors that they cleaned up, which could have caused sensor issues down the road. It didn't add much to the labor time since they already had everything apart. Just make sure they use OEM parts for the clockspring. The aftermarket ones can be hit or miss with these models. The connectivity problem you're having should definitely be covered by the same repair I had done.

Thanks for all the details about the clockspring and wiring. After hearing your experience, I'm pretty confident that's exactly what I'm dealing with. Those identical symptoms with the clicking and total steering control failure can't be coincidence. I'll definitely ask them to inspect the wiring harness while they're working on it, smart suggestion about preventing future sensor issues. The malfunction indicator is still showing the same error codes, but at least now I know what I'm walking into at the shop. Good call on the OEM parts recommendation. After dealing with this connectivity problem, I don't want to risk having to do this repair twice with cheaper parts. I'll make sure to specifically request OEM when I take it in. Just hoping the total repair cost stays reasonable like yours did.