Heated/Cooled Accessories - Heated Steering Wheel - Operation

HEATED STEERING WHEEL

Operation of the steering wheel heating element is controlled by the Heated Seat Module (HSM), also know as the comfort seat wheel module. A temperature sensor is integrated into the steering wheel heating element that sends the temperature of the steering wheel to the HSM, which adjusts the temperature of the steering wheel heating element accordingly. The heated steering wheel only operates when the engine is running, and will always stay in the off setting unless the heated seat switch is pressed. The normal heating cycle of the steering wheel will last between 58 to 70 minutes, unless the switch is pressed again. The heated steering wheel system will automatically shut off if the heating element reaches a temperature greater than 50° C (122° F), or if a fault is detected. If for any reason a fault in the heated steering wheel system becomes present, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set and the Light Emitting Diode (LED) in switch will illuminate for two seconds and then go out.

The heated steering wheel system is diagnosed using a scan tool Testing and Inspection.

The steering wheel heating element is not serviced separately from the steering wheel and if inoperative or damaged, the entire steering wheel assembly must be replaced Removal.