Vehicle has been failing to start and displaying a elv steering column lock. Problem would intermittently come and go. It has now resulted in a total failure and vehicle will not start or respond. Problem is either with BMW software or steering column malfunction which has not been officially acknowledged by BMW so they won't warranty problem.

- Silverton, OR, USA

I own a 2006 BMW 330I. I'm having problems with the steering column lock which prevents the car from starting. The problem starts with a yellow warning light that indicates the steering column is locked. Then, when the indicator light turns red, the car does not start. I first experienced the problem in 2007 and the steering column was replaced under warranty. In 2010, the yellow light started coming on again intermittently and it is now on every time I enter the car. I took the car to the local BMW dealership to be diagnosed. They tell me I need a new steering column yet again. I am out of warranty and the BMW regional is refusing to cover the steering column because a safety recall has not been issued. It costs $1428 to replace the part. Upon researching this issue online, I have discovered that BMW changed their steering columns after 2006 because of this defect with the locking mechanism.

- Bellevue, WA, USA

: the contact stated while traveling 40 mph on normal road conditions, the brake and steering lights illuminated and the vehicle jerked violently. Also, when trying to turn in any direction, a loud grinding noise was heard. An extended stopping distance occurred when normal braking was attempted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who determined the steering column was faulty and needed to be replaced. Also the brake pads needed to be replaced and adjustments had to be made to the tire pressure. The dealer performed the necessary work, but the problem persisted, and continued to jerk violently while driving. Updated 03/22/07 updated 03/30/07

- Missouri City, TX, USA