Does the whole steering column need to be replaced in order to replace a fried steering column module?

Whole steering column needs to be replaced in order to replace the fried steering column module? Just got off the phone with my mechanic and he quoted me at 5500 dollars altogeter… which is a little unsettling because that is worth more than the 2008 Dodge Charger to begin with. Is it necessary to replace both to get to the module? Is there anyway I can get around this and not have to replace it? Because at the end of the day the only thing that makes it pertinent is that the car is stuck in limp mode and will not go over 30 miles per hour. Any help is greatly appreciated!

My car has 125

Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
I would ask the mechanic for the exact part number of the electronic component that he believes has failed. Or, at least have him "name" the part and indicate where in the column assembly the part resides. The steering column is made up of many parts, most of which are separately serviceable. As discussed below, limp mode (reduced power) has many, many causes. Consequently I would also ask the mechanic to explain to you EXACTLY how he arrived at his diagnosis and ALSO have him show you the exact test results, on a diagnostic tool, multi-meter, or scope, that has led him to conclude that the particular "module" has to be replaced. With no evidence and no intelligible confirmation you would be taking a risk.

YourMechanic does offer a reduced power (limp mode) diagnostic. If you request a reduced engine power diagnostic the responding certified mechanic will give you confirmation of the cause of the issue in your case. Typically, a vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) will have stored one or more diagnostic trouble codes that will identify the "general area" in which the fault lies in the engine management controls. Although the throttle control system is a common trouble area with reduced power, there are quite a few other components and systems that could come into play and, of course, there is always the possibility of multiple, or "coincident", faults. Here are some of the possibilities that YourMechanic dispatched technicians would consider:

Defective throttle position (TP) sensor
Defective oxygen sensor
Defective accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor
Loose or damaged wiring
Defective throttle body
Defective powertrain control module (PCM) (not typical; ONLY if a long, long list of other possibilities is ruled out)
Any fault/error that will affect drivability function
Any fault/error that will affect vehicle performance
A fault/error in the emissions system
A fault/error in the throttle control system
A fault/error in the transmission control system

If you request the recommended diagnostic the mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?

Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :

You use the steering column every time you drive, but it`s not subject to the same type of wear and tear as other components. In fact, your car`s steering column should last for the life of the vehicle.
The Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) is the interface between the steering wheel and the steering column necessary to transfer the driver`s input rotation. It integrates clock springs, steering angle sensors, power tilt/telescope column controls, pedal position controls, and other simple and complex switches.
Steering wheels are designed to turn and operate smoothly. So the most common symptom of a faulty steering column is difficulty turning the steering wheel. Drivers may also hear a `pop` sound when turning, especially at low speeds. This can be caused by dirt or debris inside the steering column housing.
Things will become stiff, clunking, create weird noises, and you will feel that something is wrong as you steer your car. It is important to have this part replaced as soon as signs of failure begin to show up.
The average cost for a Steering Column Adjust Motor Replacement is between $576 and $615. Labor costs are estimated between $148 and $187 while parts are priced between $428 and $428.
While it is technically possible to drive the car with a failing electric power steering system, it is not going to get any better. The vehicle will need to be serviced as soon as possible. The module is still pulling excess power from the battery and robbing the rest of the vehicle.
Pump malfunctions, fluid leaks, blocked hoses, contamination of power steering fluid, or worn power steering belts are some specific factors that can contribute to steering system failure.
If the steering wheel does not lock, this is a critical warning sign of a problem with the steering column or one of the many components inside the column. Nonetheless, if this symptom arrives, do not drive the vehicle under any circumstances; as an unlocked steering wheel is a potentially dangerous situation.
The steering shaft or steering column helps to move your tires in response to the way that you move your steering wheel. This shaft does need to be lubricated in order to move smoothly and to move freely and without excess friction.
Adjust the steering wheel column depth

Look below the wheel to the steering column and pull the lever there. Once the lever is down, make the adjustments. Push or pull the steering wheel to change its depth. Whenever you feel the adjustment is made, either push the lever back or move on to adjust the height.

Upper Pivot Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column

Tilt and telescopic steering column with a pivot center in the upper part of the column. Steering wheel position can be adjusted back and forth, and up and down. The automatic tilt-away steering column feature raises the steering wheel for ease when exiting the vehicle.

The steering column still consists of a long shaft connecting the steering wheel to the steering gear box. In simple terms, the column is comprised of an inner and outer sleeve with a number of bearings contained between each sleeve. On impact, the sleeves will compress much like a telescope.
The most likely cause of steering failure is a loss of power steering. This can happen if a hydraulic pipe breaks or is cut by debris from the road.
For most vehicles, the power steering system will last well over 100,000 miles before any failures occur.
Improper Fluid Levels

Too much and your valves and seals could collapse under the pressure. Not enough and the fluid can`t exert the force needed to turn your car. Replacing your fluid on time will help prevent this issue, but any leaks can cause a loss of fluid that will ultimately lead to power steering failure.

When gas is extremely low, the fuel pump is no longer suspended in liquid and can overheat. In some cases, low fuel can even affect power steering and brakes. While this damage is not likely to occur if you drive with the low gas light on once or twice, you shouldn`t make it a habit.
A serious problem with a faulty power steering pump is steering that doesn`t respond. You may turn the wheel, but your vehicle may not change direction. As you can imagine, this can put you in a very dangerous situation and might even cause an automobile accident.
The power steering is an electrical system, so a problem with the battery could affect the power assistance. You should still be able to steer the car even without power assistance. It won`t affect the braking.
Pump malfunctions, fluid leaks, blocked hoses, contamination of power steering fluid, or worn power steering belts are some specific factors that can contribute to steering system failure.
The steering system usually consists of: a steering gear, a control equipment, a rudder carrier, a rudder and a rudder horn. The steering gear provides a movement of the rudder in response to a signal from the bridge.
This problem typically occurs over a period of time, so it`s quite possible that you`ll hear it occasionally. If this sound happens all the time when you`re steering, have a mechanic look into this problem as soon as possible as driving a vehicle with a damaged steering column is dangerous.
The typical lifespan of a steering rack is around 80,000 miles. However, this can vary depending on a few factors such as the type of vehicle and how it is driven. Off-road driving can cause the steering rack to be overloaded and prematurely fail.
A worn steering rack can cause you to lose partial or complete control over your car steering wheel, which can lead to fatal accident. That goes without saying that steering rack is a major car maintenance procedure and is expensive.

Relevant Questions and Answers :

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

Does the whole steering column need to be replaced in order to replace a fried steering column module?
ANSWER : I would ask the mechanic for the exact part number of the electronic component that he believes has failed. Or, at least have him "name" the part and indicate where in the column assembly the part resides. The steering column is made up of many parts, most of which are separately serviceable. As discussed below, limp mode (reduced power) has many, many causes. Consequently I would also ask the mechanic to explain to you EXACTLY how he arrived at his diagnosis and ALSO have him show you the exact test results, on a diagnostic tool, multi-meter, or scope, that has led him to conclude that the particular "module" has to be replaced. With no evidence and no intelligible confirmation you would be taking a risk.

YourMechanic does offer a reduced power (limp mode) diagnostic. If you request a reduced engine power diagnostic the responding certified mechanic will give you confirmation of the cause of the issue in your case. Typically, a vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) will have stored one or more diagnostic trouble codes that will identify the "general area" in which the fault lies in the engine management controls. Although the throttle control system is a common trouble area with reduced power, there are quite a few other components and systems that could come into play and, of course, there is always the possibility of multiple, or "coincident", faults. Here are some of the possibilities that YourMechanic dispatched technicians would consider:

Defective throttle position (TP) sensor
Defective oxygen sensor
Defective accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor
Loose or damaged wiring
Defective throttle body
Defective powertrain control module (PCM) (not typical; ONLY if a long, long list of other possibilities is ruled out)
Any fault/error that will affect drivability function
Any fault/error that will affect vehicle performance
A fault/error in the emissions system
A fault/error in the throttle control system
A fault/error in the transmission control system

If you request the recommended diagnostic the mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

Power steering pump on 2012 Acura TL needs to be replaced. Due to location a power bar also needs to be replaced. Cost over $3,000. Is this a good price?
ANSWER : Question sent to CS for a quote on replacing the power steering motor, programming, and replacing an electrical component attached to the motor. This is in comparison to a quote that was given for the parts and labor.

Very loud pop when turning sharp left leaking transmission or power steering fluid where steering column meet rack
ANSWER : Hi there. If everything else has already been installed from the donor vehicle then it sounds like the high pressure hose is all that you need to install. The hardest part of doing this is the routing. One thing you may also want to double check is that the donor vehicle and your 2003 Escape have the same rack. There are different models depending on the model and the size of your wheels. You need to install the pressure line first, but if it does not line up then you may have the wrong rack installed. If you would like some assistance installing this hose, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to you to [replace your high pressure steering hose] https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/power-steering-pressure-hose-replacement

Had the steering rack replaced and now the steering angle sensor is acting up after a front end alignment.
ANSWER : Hi there. If the codes are coming on for the steering angle due to either the sensor failing or the plug not plugged in all the way. Check the harness on the steering sensor and see if its plugged in. If the harness is plugged in and has not moisture on it, then the sensor has probably failed. You can have the vehicle realigned, but if the sensor has failed, it will not correct its self. I recommend replacing the steering angle sensor. If you need further assistance with the steering angle sensor, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

Does the CV boot need to be replaced or do i need to replace the whole axle? 2008 Chevrolet Uplander
ANSWER : Hello – the CV joint or axle boot is available separately from a variety of sources. What your mechanic may be saying however, is that given your mileage, it would be best to replace the whole axle assembly for reliability reasons. Replacing the CV boot requires considerable labor as well, and your best repair $ may be to go ahead and replace the whole axle assembly. I would recommend a CV axle replacement by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

Do i need to replace the receiver drier and/or the expansion valve when replacing the condenser assembly?
ANSWER : Replacing the system drier is absolutely essential. If the system has been open to the atmosphere (due to the leak in the condenser), the desiccant in the drier has been fully saturated with moisture. As far as the expansion valve, replacement is not normally implicated in a leak repair, in your case a leak in the condenser. To justify replacing the expansion valve, there would have to have been a diagnostic performed which proved a fault. If no diagnostic was performed, and there is no evidence of a fault, then it is pointless to replace the valve. But, again, drier replacement is absolutely essential. To add the drier to your order, you can simply add a note to the mechanic in your order and/or add it as a service (you will see a link that you can click on to "add services" or write in specific services). If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

transmission control module failing. We just replaced the computer module (pcm) 4 days ago?
ANSWER : The P0700 trouble code is a code for transmission control module (TCM) failure. Without knowing the other codes, it will not be possible to give you an accurate answer; it all depends on the other codes:

If you get a P0755 code, you may have a transmission solenoid pack issue.
P0725 indicates a likely crank position sensor issue.

I would suggest having your Check Engine Light diagnosed by a qualified mechanic.

My power steering rack needs replacing. The part will cost me $989.98 plus the labor $460.00. Is those price fare?
ANSWER : Ouch! that’s a pretty hard hit! unfortunately it may not be out of line. I’m curious about your warranty, however. Many new cars are covered by at least a 5 year / 50,000 mile warranty. If the rack was not damaged by an accident or abuse, it may be covered. If the Toyota dealer is not helpful with questions, there will be a customer service number that you can call to try for some action. Failing that, it may do to get a second opinion. if you contact Your Mechanic, they can send a technician to your home or office to check out your steering rack and make a recommendation.