Principles Of Operation

Steering Column Switches

Principles of Operation

Ignition Switch

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

The ignition switch has 4 possible positions:

- OFF

- ACC

- RUN

- START

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 SJB (Smart Junction Box) and Battery Junction Box (BJB). The ignition switch contains a key-in-ignition switch and a key removal inhibit solenoid.

Key-In-Ignition Switch

The key-in-ignition switch is hardwired to the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). The switch allows the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) to detect when the key has been inserted in the ignition switch. The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) uses this information for the brake shift interlock system and the chime warning system. For information on the brake shift interlock system, refer to Automatic Transmission/Transaxle. For information on the chime warning system, refer to Instrument Panel, Gauges and Warning Indicators.

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.

Multifunction Switch

The multifunction switches control various components electrically. The headlamp switch sends constant voltage to the headlamps when placed in the ON position, while the flash-to-pass is a momentary switch used to send voltage to the headlamp high beams only. The headlamp high beam/low beam switch sends voltage to the low or high beam headlamps while the headlamps are on. The turn signal switch portion of the multifunction switch operates the left and right turn signals. The windshield wiper switch function uses a ground signal to activate the various wiper modes and the wiper/washer.

For diagnosis and testing of the multifunction switch, refer to Lighting and Horns for headlamps and turn signal concerns, and Wiper and Washer Systems for wiper and washer concerns.