Fix B0005: Mechanic’s Solutions That WORKED!

The B0005: Collapsible Steering Column Deployment is related to a vehicle’s safety systems, specifically the collapsible steering column mechanism.

This code is triggered when there is a fault within the circuit that controls the collapsible feature of the steering column, designed to reduce injury in a collision by collapsing upon impact.

B0005 quick overview

Meaning	B0005: Collapsible Steering Column Deployment
Is it serious?	Yes, because it directly involves the safety mechanisms of a vehicle.
Possible causes	– Faulty Body Control Module (BCM) – Damaged steering column components – Faulty in-park switch circuit – Electrical issues within the circuit
How to diagnose?	Inspect the steering column and associated components for physical damage. Check electrical connections for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Rule out the actuators and other mechanical parts as potential causes. Have the BCM checked, replaced, and reprogrammed as necessary.

How to fix B0005 – learn from mechanics

I looked into B0005 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Saturn B0005

Vehicle information 2002 Saturn L300 3.0L All passenger locks

Issue + repair history

• Passenger door locks slowly and unevenly unlock during test drive, accompanied by clicking noise under passenger dash.
• No current codes in BCM, but Engine code P1632 (Theft sys/fuel disabled) present. BCM history code B0005 (In park switch circuit fault) also present.
• Cleared codes and confirmed complaint. Both passenger side doors unlocked with clicking, followed by the driver-side passenger door lock.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• Engine code P1632 (Theft sys/fuel disabled)
• BCM history code B0005 (In park switch circuit fault)

Mechanic suggestions

• Inspect data on scanner for power door or park neutral switch intermittently changing during failure occurrences.
• Check door switches and battery positive connection, then have BCM checked, replaced, and reprogrammed at Saturn Dealer.
• Rule out the actuators as a potential cause of the issue.

Final fix

• Replaced BCM and had it reprogrammed at the dealer, resolving the problem.

Case #2: Ford B0005

Vehicle information 2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost 2.3L Air Bag

Issue + repair history

• Vehicle has been wrecked on the front end.
• Main SDM and both front seat belts replaced.
• Only remaining code is B0005-13 (Collapsible Steering Column Deployed).

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• B0005-13 (Collapsible Steering Column Deployed)

Mechanic suggestions

• The steering column needs to be replaced as it has been weakened due to deployment.
• After deployment, a new steering column must be installed.

Final fix

• Replaced the steering column, followed by programming the steering column control module and syncing it to the BCM to resolve the code.

Case #3: Chevrolet B0005

Vehicle information 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier 2.2L

Issue + repair history

• Multiple indicators light up randomly while driving, including CEL and theft.
• 13 different failure codes stored in 5 modules, with 8 duplicates.
• Codes include U10xx, PCM U1301, P1626, ABS C1254, C1295, BCM B0005, SIR B0051, B1000.
• Fuel gauge is inoperative during failure.
• Ignition switch replaced previously.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• U1000 (Communication)
• U1016 (Communication)
• U1040 (Communication)
• U1064 (Communication)
• U1088 (Communication)
• U1096 (Communication)

Mechanic suggestions

• Check body ground near the battery to ensure it’s clean and tight.
• Check serial data voltage at the DLC and ensure all grounds are okay.
• Verify the voltage in the system and check if the alternator is overcharging.
• Consider sending the instrument cluster to the dealer for repair.
• Inspect the negative battery cable for breaks, especially where it bolts to the battery tray.
• Contact GM dealer to get the PCM reflashed.

Final fix

• Disassembled, cleaned, and tightened the body ground connection at the battery tray, resolving the issue.

Diagnostic Step	Explanation
Inspect steering column and deployment mechanism	Look for any signs of deployment or damage.
Check BCM and in-park switch circuit	Ensure the Body Control Module is functioning correctly and the in-park switch circuit has no faults.
Test electrical connections and components	Examine all related electrical connections for damage or wear.
Replace and reprogram BCM	If faulty, the BCM should be replaced and programmed by a dealer.
Replace steering column if deployed	A deployed steering column must be replaced for safety.
Check and clean body ground connections	Ensure the body ground near the battery is clean and tight to prevent electrical issues.

Drawing from real service cases, these steps highlight the critical nature of addressing the B0005 code to maintain vehicle safety. Given the code’s potential safety implications, professional consultation and repair are strongly recommended to ensure that the vehicle’s steering column and safety systems are functioning correctly.