Red steering wheel padlock error in BMW and MINI – what is the cause and how to fix it?

MINI driver question

On the dashboard of my MINI Cooper D car appeared an icon of a red padlock and a steering wheel. I can’t start the engine now. Is there any advice for this?

The problem affected the MINI Cooper D, but also occurs in other BMW and MINI models.

BM Cars service response

The problem you described is often encountered in all BMW and MINI models with an electric steering column lock.

Excessive wear of the column locking mechanism causes the message (steering wheel padlock) in the center section of the clocks to light up yellow first. Further operation of such a worn mechanism causes it to be completely blocked and the message to turn red (padlock with steering wheel).

At this point it is impossible to start the engine. For safety reasons, the manufacturer prevents possible driving with a locked steering wheel. The only solution to the problem is to replace the steering column with the lock.

In some cases, the CAS immobilizer module is also damaged, which further increases the amount needed to repair the vehicle.

We invite you to take advantage of our service.

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