Multifunction Switch - Description

DESCRIPTION





The multi-function switch is located on the left side of the steering column, just below the steering wheel. This switch provides the primary controls for the wiper and washer systems, the turn signals and headlamp beam selection. The only visible components of the switch are the control stalk (2) and control knob (1) that extend through the steering column shrouds on the left side of the column. The remainder of the switch including its mounting provisions, its electrical connection, and the turn signal cancel actuator are concealed beneath the shrouds.





The switch housing (2) and controls (1) are constructed of molded black plastic. Each of the switch controls has white International Control and Display Symbol graphics applied to it, which clearly identify its many functions. A single integral latch feature (3) and slide tabs on the switch housing engage channels and a striker that are integral to the left side of the mounting bracket that is integral to the clockspring (5) to secure the switch to the steering column.

The Steering Control Module (SCM) is an electronic circuit board and microprocessor internal to the multi-function switch housing. The switch outputs are internally connected directly to the SCM. An integral connector receptacle on the back of the switch housing connects the switch through the SCM to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the instrument panel wire harness.

The multi-function switch provides the vehicle operator with a control interface for the following functions:

- Headlamp Beam Selection - The multi-function switch control stalk provides detent switching for selection of the headlamp HIGH or LOW beams.
- Headlamp Optical Horn - The multi-function switch control stalk includes momentary switching of the headlamp high beam circuits to provide an optical horn feature (sometimes referred to as flash-to-pass), which allows the vehicle operator to momentarily flash the headlamp high beams as an optical signalling device.
- Turn Signal Control - The multi-function switch control stalk provides both momentary non-detent (lane change) switching or detent switching with automatic cancellation for both the left and right turn signals.
- Washer Control - The multi-function switch control knob provides a momentary WASH position for washer system operation.
- Wiper Control - The multi-function switch control knob provides detent switching for two continuous wipe switch positions, LOW speed or HIGH speed and an intermittent wipe mode with five DELAY interval positions. The control knob also has a momentary MIST or pulse wipe feature switch position.

The multi-function switch cannot be adjusted or repaired. If any function of the switch is ineffective, or if the switch is damaged, the entire switch unit must be replaced. The clockspring with the multi-function switch mounting bracket, Steering Angle Sensor/SAS and the heated steering wheel contact (if equipped), the multi-function switch (with the internal SCM) and the optional adjustable pedal switch (7) are each available for separate service replacement.