The audio steering wheel control switches duplicate the function of the primary controls of the associated component, through a network of momentary contact switches setup in a resistor ladder format. The radio supplies voltage to the switches and monitors the return signal for a specific voltage drop across a resistor. The radio then identifies the switch selected and activates the feature. Otherwise the radio sends a serial data message to the component controlled by the switch and activating the feature.

This section is intended to diagnose the circuits between the radio and the audio steering wheel control switches. If the primary control for the device is inoperative, refer to the appropriate section of the component controlled by the steering wheel control switch.