Principles Of Operation

Steering Column

Principles of Operation


Power Tilt Steering Column

The power tilt steering column is controlled by an electric motor that is activated by the Driver Seat Module (DSM). The DSM receives input from a rocker-type switch located on the LH side of the steering column just below the multifunction switch. When the power tilt switch is pressed, it sends a signal to the DSM to adjust the steering column up or down. The switch is serviceable. The power tilt motor is serviceable. If a new motor is needed, refer to Steering Column Motor Service and Repair.

Power Tilt Memory Position Programming and Recall

A power tilt steering column position can be stored at any time. The power tilt steering column position is controlled by the DSM. When the DSM receives a signal from 1 of 3 sources (power tilt switch, remote transmitter or a memory position switch) it supplies power and ground to the power tilt motor to move the steering column to the desired position. The DSM also controls the driver seat position, the side-view mirror positions (if equipped) and the adjustable pedal positions (if equipped). For information on the DSM and Memory Position Programming, refer to Seating Programming and Relearning Description and Operation.


Easy Entry/Easy Exit

The easy exit function moves the steering column to the full upward position when the ignition key is removed from the ignition switch. The DSM receives a key out command over the Medium Speed Controller Area Network (MS-CAN) bus and powers the steering column upward. This function will not operate if the steering column is currently at the soft stop position, between the soft stop and hard stop positions or the function has been deactivated. The DSM will also cancel this operation if a valid input command is received, such as the power tilt column switch or memory recall request.

The DSM will record the current steering column position before powering the steering column for an easy exit function. This recorded position will be used to return the steering column to this position on the easy entry operation. During easy entry operation, the steering column is returned to the position previous to the easy exit operation. Easy entry operation will be cancelled if a valid input command is received by the DSM.

The easy exit/easy entry feature can be activated or deactivated using a scan tool or via the message center (if equipped). Refer to Module Configuration [1][2]Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview or the Owner's Literature.


Power Tilt Steering Column Hard Stop/Soft Stop

A hard stop occurs when the power tilt column physically reaches the end of travel either up or down and cannot go any further. A soft stop occurs when the power tilt column stops before physically reaching the end of travel. The hard stop is set by steering column design and cannot be changed or adjusted. The soft stop is set by the DSM. To prevent unnecessary stress on the power tilt column and motor, the DSM will set 2 soft stop positions, one for tilt up and one for tilt down. The DSM will use a preset distance from the hard stop to determine where the soft stop will occur.

The soft stops must be relearned by the DSM whenever a new steering column or DSM is installed.