The steering wheel and column has 4 primary functions:

The steering wheel is the first link between the driver and the vehicle. The steering wheel is fastened to a steering shaft within the steering column. At the lower end of the column, the steering shaft coupling connects the upper steering shaft to the lower steering shaft. The lower steering shaft connects to the steering gear.

Theft deterrent components are on the steering column. The steering column lock and ignition switch cylinder (3) controls the following functions:

The ignition cylinder must be in the LOCK position in order to insert the key. If the ignition cylinder is in the LOCK position and the steering column lock is engaged, turn the steering wheel in order to relieve pressure on the steering column lock. Turn the steering wheel and turn the key to the ACC position in order to unlock the steering column.

Some models have a rake type of tilt function in order to increase driver comfort and convenience.

Important: The tilt springs lift the column to the top tilt position with the tilt lever in the down position. The tilt springs compensate for the weight of the steering wheel, the steering column, and the SIR module.

Lower the tilt lever in order to adjust the position of the steering wheel and column. Raise the tilt lever in order to lock the position of the column.

The tilt components are not individually replaceable. The steering column and the tilt controls may be serviced as a unit.

The turn signal and headlamp and windshield wiper and windshield washer switch with levers and the inflatable restraint module coil assembly can be serviced as a unit. The switch consists of the following components:

The energy-absorbing steering column compresses in the event of a front-end collision, which reduces the chance of injury to the driver. The mounting capsules break away from the mounting bracket in the event of an accident.

The park lock system prevents the ignition lock cylinder from moving to the LOCK position when the automatic transmission shift lever is in any position other than Park. A cable is attached to the automatic transmission shift lever and to the steering column lock and ignition switch cylinder. Moving the automatic transmission shift lever out of the Park position pulls the cable and prevents the ignition cylinder from moving to the LOCK position. Moving the automatic transmission shift lever to the Park position pushes the cable and allows the ignition cylinder to move to the LOCK position. If the key is in the ACC position, push the key into the ignition cylinder and rotate the key to the LOCK position in order to remove the key.