Steering Column: Description and Operation

Steering Wheel and Column Description and Operation
The steering wheel and column has 4 primary functions:
^ Vehicle steering
^ Vehicle security
^ Driver convenience
^ Driver safety

Vehicle Steering
The steering wheel is the first link between the drive and the vehicle. The steering wheel is fastened to a steering shaft within the steering column.

Vehicle Security
Theft deterrent components are on the steering column. The following components allow the column to be locked in order to minimize theft:
^ The theft deterrent receiver assembly
^ The ignition lock cylinder
^ The ignition switch

Driver Convenience
The steering column has a tilt function and telescope function in order to increase driver comfort an convenience.

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

The cruise control switch, the headlamp high beam dimmer switch, and the turn signal switch are on the multifunction switch lever on the left side of the steering column.

The windshield wiper and washer switch are on the right side of the steering column.

Driver Safety
The energy-absorbing steering column compresses in the event of a front-end collision which reduces the chance of injury to the driver.