Grand AM V6-3300 3.3L (1992)
In the event of a front-end collision where the driver hits the steering wheel, the wheel will align itself parallel with the driver's chest and abdomen no
matter how the driver hits it. This self-aligning motion helps spread the force of the impact and helps prevent injuries.
The patented wheel has three sets of energy absorbing components: the hub, spokes and rim. The hub consists of six formed metal "legs" which are
calibrated to limit the rigidity of the steering wheel structure. The limit is based on human injury tolerance data that was obtained through GM Research
Labs. Like the hub at the center of the steering wheel, the wheel's three or four spokes (depending on the model) and rim are also energy absorbing. They
have metal rods contoured to "give" when occupants impact the steering wheel from various angles.
Briefly stated, the design of the wheel assembly is rigid enough for daily use yet flexible and dynamic enough to help absorb the energy of the driver's
forward movement in a frontal collision.
Vehicles with Supplemental Inflatable Restraint Systems (SIR) do not have self-aligning steering wheels since the SIR provides similar protection in
frontal impacts.
It is important to remember that the steering system safety features found on today's vehicles are NOT designed to be a conveniet substitute for safety
belts. To protect all occupants of a vehicle, safety belts must be worn at all times.
If you are involved in repairs on a 1992 Sunbird or Grand Am model that has been in a front end collision, replace the steering wheel if it shows any
signs of distortion.
