Principles of Operation

Steering Column Switches

Principles of Operation

NOTE: The Smart Junction Box (SJB) is also identified as the Generic Electronic Module (GEM).

Steering Column Switches

The steering column switches include the ignition switch, the multifunction switch (high beam/low beam, flash-to-pass, turn signal and windshield wiper) and the key removal inhibit solenoid.

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is controlled by the ignition lock cylinder with a key. When the ignition lock cylinder is turned using the key, a mechanical connection positions the ignition switch to the selected position and allows the ignition switch to send voltage to the Battery Junction Box (BJB) and the SJB. The ignition switch also contains a key-in ignition system that allows the SJB to detect when the key has been inserted in the ignition switch. The ignition switch and cylinder are part of the steering column lock module and can be serviced separately. For information on the brake shift interlock system, refer to Automatic Transmission/Transaxle or Automatic Transmission/Transaxle. The available ignition switch positions are:

- OFF
- ACC
- RUN
- START

Multifunction Switch

The multifunction switch controls the various components (high beam headlamps, flash-to-pass, turn signal and windshield wiper) by grounding certain SJB circuits and wiper motor circuits. When the SJB detects the specific ground, it sends a voltage to the appropriate component to activate it. The SJB controls the high beam headlamps, the flash-to-pass and the turn signals. The high beam headlamp and the turn signal portion are normally open switches that close when activated. The flash-to-pass switch is a momentary contact switch that grounds the SJB high beam headlamp circuit. The windshield wipe and wash functions are controlled directly by the multifunction switch, wiper and washer motor.

Key Removal Inhibit Solenoid

The key removal inhibit solenoid (also known as the key release interlock actuator) is an electronically controlled solenoid that prevents the ignition lock cylinder from being turned to the OFF position unless the selector lever is in the PARK position. The key removal inhibit solenoid is part of the ignition switch.