Steering Column: Description and Operation

Steering Wheel and Column Description and Operation
The steering wheel and column has 4 primary functions:
^ Vehicle steering
^ Vehicle security
^ Driver convenience
^ Driver safety


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-Some Vehicle Models
Theft deterrent components are mounted and designed into the steering column. These components allow the column to be locked in order to minimize theft:
^ The ignition switch assembly
^ The steering column lock
^ The ignition cylinder


Driver Convenience
The steering wheel and column may also have driver controls attached for convenience and comfort. These controls may be mounted on or near the steering wheel or column.
^ The turn signal switch
^ The hazard switch
^ The headlamp dimmer switch
^ The wiper/washer switch
^ The horn pad/cruise control switch
^ The redundant radio entertainment system controls
^ The tilt or tilt/telescoping functions
^ The navigation/OnStar features
^ The HVAC controls


Driver Safety
The energy-absorbing steering column compresses in the event of a front-end collision, which reduces the chance of injury to the driver. The mounting capsules break away from the mounting bracket in the event of an accident.