Cavalier L4-2.2L VIN F (2004)
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. The following components allow the column to be locked in order to
minimize theft:
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The ignition switch assembly
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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. The following 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(R) features
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The HVAC controls
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. The mounting
capsules break away from the mounting bracket in the event of an accident.
The steering wheel and column are designed to absorb energy when driver contact is made with the steering wheel or inflated air bag. In a frontal
collision the driver may contact the steering wheel directly or load the steering wheel and column through the inflated air bag. When the driver applies
load to the air bag or steering wheel the column will compress downward absorbing some of the impact, helping to reduce bodily injuries to the driver.
The steering wheel and column must be inspected for damage after a collision.
