GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Steering Wheel Controls Description and Operation for Chevrolet Cobalt 2008

The audio steering wheel control switches duplicate the function of the primary controls of the associated component, through a network of multiple momentary contact switches. The radio supplies voltage to the switches and monitors the return signal. Each switch state is associated to a set resistance value and when pressed a specific voltage drops across the resistor unique to the switch. The radio identifies the switch selection and activates the feature. Otherwise, the radio sends a serial data message to the primary component controlled by the switch to activate the feature.