LaCrosse V6-3.8L VIN 2 (2005)
Steering Wheel: Description and Operation
Steering Wheel and Column Description and Operation
The steering wheel and column has 4 primary functions:
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Vehicle steering
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Vehicle security
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Driver convenience
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Driver safety
Vehicle Steering
The steering wheel is the first link between the driver and the vehicle. The steering wheel is fastened to a steering shaft within the column. At the
lower end of the column, the intermediate shaft connects the column to the steering gear.
Vehicle Security - Some Vehicle Models
Theft deterrent components are mounted and designed into the steering column. These components allow the column to be locked in order to minimize
theft:
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The ignition switch
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The steering column lock
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The ignition cylinder
Driver Convenience
The steering wheel and column may also have driver controls attached for convenience and comfort. These controls may be mounted on or near the
steering wheel or column.
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The turn signal switch
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The hazard switch
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The headlamp dimmer switch
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The wiper/washer switch
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The horn pad/cruise control switch
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The redundant radio/entertainment system controls
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The tilt or tilt/telescoping functions
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The navigation OnStar features
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The HVAC controls
Driver Safety
In the event of a front-end collision the energy-absorbing steering column compresses, which reduces the chance of injury to the driver. The mounting
capsules break away from the mounting bracket in the event of an accident.
Ignition Lock Cylinder Control Actuator
If the vehicle is equipped with a floor-mounted console gear shifter, an added safety feature is an ignition lock cylinder control actuator system in the
steering column. The ignition lock cylinder control actuator system prevents the steering wheel from being locked when the transmission is in gear and
the vehicle may be moving. The column ignition lock system consists of a ignition lock cylinder control actuator and a ignition lock cylinder control
switch, that is located in the A/T shift lock control switch. The ignition lock cylinder control actuator contains a spring-loaded pin that mechanically
prevents the ignition key cylinder from being turned to the Lock position when the transmission is not in the Park position. If vehicle power is lost or
the transmission is not in the Park position, the operator will not be able to turn the ignition key to the Lock position and will not be able to remove the
ignition key from the column.
