Do you have a Fiat 500X 1.6 Multijet and have found yourself with the instrument panel completely off , active steering lock , and no reaction when pressing the ignition button?
Have you tried both keys without success? If you detected the codes B1010 and U1932 in diagnostics, you are in the right place: in this guide we explain what they mean, what to check and how to restore the ignition.
🔧 Common symptoms found
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The instrument panel does not turn on
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The steering lock motor remains active
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The vehicle does not recognize the key correctly, even if the key is intact
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The BCM control unit reports an error
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Attempts to turn on the ignition with the push button are ineffective
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Diagnosis possible only with professional tools connected to OBD
📋 Error Codes Explained
⚠️ Error B1010 – Steering Lock Motor: Faulty Components
This code indicates a malfunction of the Electronic Steering Lock (ESL) actuator . This could be:
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Steering lock motor faulty or mechanically blocked
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Disconnected or oxidized connectors
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Blown fuse or no power
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Internal electronic fault in the ESL module
⚠️ Error U1932 – Invalid BCM operating condition
The BCM (Body Control Module) does not communicate properly with other modules. The ignition signal is not accepted, and the system does not enable starting.
Possible causes:
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Insufficient or no power supply to the BCM
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Internal fault in the BCM control unit
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Wiring problem between BCM and ignition lock
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CAN (vehicle data network) interference or incorrect communication
🧪 Checks to do before thinking the worst
✅ 1. Check fuses and power supply
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Check the fuses related to the steering lock, BCM and instrument cluster
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Check that power is reaching the BCM control unit (even just 0.5V less can prevent communication)
✅ 2. Check steering lock connectors
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The steering lock is located in the column. Unplug the connector , clean it with contact spray and reconnect it.
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Check that there is no visible damage or signs of overheating
✅ 3. Battery test and frame mass status
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A weak battery or oxidized mass can cause intermittent problems
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Measure the voltage with the ignition off and under load : it must be at least 12.5V – 13.0V
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Check and clean the ground points , especially in the engine compartment
🛠 Possible solutions to the problem
🔁 Replacing the electronic steering lock (ESL)
If the B1010 error persists, the internal steering lock motor is faulty and must be replaced or unlocked manually (by experienced technicians only).
💡 In some cases an ESL simulator can be installed, but this is a temporary solution or for vehicles out of warranty.
🔁 Check or replace the BCM
If the U1932 error continues after bypassing the steering lock, the problem may be in the Body Computer . The BCM may:
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Not receiving or not transmitting the consent to start correctly
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Having an internal fault caused by power surges
🔧 In these cases , an in-depth diagnosis is required and, sometimes, reprogramming or replacement of the BCM module .
🧠 Software update or proxy alignment
Some communication problems can be solved through software updates with tools such as TEXA, Multiecuscan, WITECH or proxy alignment in case of mismatch between electronic modules.
💡 Final advice
If you have tried two keys , the battery is good and the ignition remains off , the problem is most likely:
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Electronic steering lock faulty (error B1010)
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BCM control unit not enabling start (error U1932)
It is not uncommon for these problems to occur together on Fiat 500X and other FCA models with keyless start . The intervention requires a precise diagnosis and professional tools , but in most cases it is resolved with:
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Replacing the ESL module
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BCM Communications Check and Restore
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Check and update control unit firmware
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can I try to force the steering lock to unlock?
No. The ESL is a safety device. Forcing it may permanently damage it.
Can U1932 error be caused by battery?
Yes. A flat or dead battery can interrupt the dialogue between the BCM and the instrument cluster .
Do I have to replace the BCM?
Only after having ruled out problems with the wiring and the ESL . Often it is enough to reset the contacts or update the software .
