The steering wheel and column has 4 primary functions:
Vehicle Steering
The steering wheel is the first link between the driver and the vehicle. The steering wheel is fastened to a steering shaft within the column. At the lower end of the column, the intermediate shaft connects the column to the steering gear.
Vehicle Security, Found on Some Vehicle Models
Theft deterrent components are mounted and designed into the steering column. The following components allow the column to be locked in order to minimize theft:
Driver Convenience
The steering wheel and column may also have driver controls attached for convenience and comfort. The following controls may be mounted on or near the steering wheel or column.
Driver Safety
The steering wheel and column has safety features to protect the driver. The following components may be mounted on or near the steering column: Energy-Absorbing Steering Column: The energy-absorbing steering column compresses in the event of a front-end collision, which reduces the chance of injury to the driver. The energy-absorbing feature, collapsible steering shaft, and break away mounting features help reduce the injury in the event of an accident. In addition to these features, the following driver safety features may be on the steering column: Electronic Park Lock (EPL)/Ignition Lock Cylinder Control Actuator: If the vehicle is equipped with automatic transmission and a floor mounted console gear shift, it has an ignition lock cylinder control actuator system in the steering column. The ignition lock cylinder control actuator purpose is to prevent the ignition key from being turned to the OFF position when the transmission is in any position other than PARK and the vehicle may still be moving. The column ignition lock system consists of an ignition lock cylinder control actuator, and a park position switch that is located in the automatic transmission shift lock control switch. The ignition lock cylinder control actuator contains a pin that is spring loaded to mechanically prevent the ignition key cylinder from being turned to the lock position when the vehicle transmission is not in the PARK position. If vehicle power is lost, and/or the transmission is not in the PARK position the operator will not be able to turn the ignition key to the lock position and will not be able to remove the ignition key from the column.
SIR Coil and Module: For additional information on the operation of the SIR coil and module, refer to SIR System Description and Operation.
Steering Wheel Angle Sensor or Steering Wheel Position Sensor: The steering wheel position sensor is located somewhere along the steering shaft assembly. The sensor measures the position of the steering wheel and the speed at which it is rotated. A signal representing this measurement is provided to the vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) module. The VSES module uses this signal, along with several others representing different vehicle conditions, to monitor the driving behavior of the vehicle and ensure that it stays in control. If the VSES module determines that the vehicle is out of control it provides signals to the powertrain control module (PCM) and the ABS module. These output signals are used to modulate the transmission torque and brake pressure of each of the vehicles wheels in order to regain control of the vehicle.
Removal Procedure
Disable the SIR System. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling.
Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable
Disconnection and Connection.
Remove all related panels and components.
Visually inspect the damage. Repair as much of the damage as possible.
Remove the ...
Engine Oil Pressure Light
Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance can damage the engine.
Driving with the engine oil low can also damage the engine. The repairs would not
be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Check the oil level as soon as possible. Add oil if required, but if the oil
level is within the operating ...
Replacing LATCH System Parts After a Crash
WARNING
A crash can damage the LATCH system in the vehicle. A damaged LATCH system
may not properly secure the child restraint, resulting in serious injury or even
death in a crash. To help make sure the LATCH system is working properly after a
crash, see your dealer to have the system inspec ...