Principles of Operation

Steering Column Switches


Principles of Operation

The steering column switches include the ignition switch and the multifunction switch (high beam/low beam, flash-to-pass, turn signal and windshield wiper).

Ignition Switch

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 Battery Junction Box (BJB) and the Central Junction Box (CJB). The available ignition switch positions are:

- OFF
- ACC
- RUN
- START

Multifunction Switch

NOTE: For multifunction switch concerns, refer to one of the following systems:

- For exterior lighting, refer to Lighting and Horns. Lighting and Horns
- For wipers and washers, refer to Wiper and Washer Systems.

The multifunction switch controls the various components (high beam headlamps, flash-to-pass, turn signal and windshield wiper) by grounding certain Lighting Control Module (LCM) circuits and wiper motor circuits. When the LCM detects the specific ground, it sends a voltage to the appropriate component to activate it. The LCM controls the high beam headlamps and the flash-to-pass. The turn signals are controlled directly by the multifunction switch. The high beam headlamp and the turn signal portion are normally open switches that close when activated. The flash-to-pass switch is a momentary contact switch that grounds the LCM high beam headlamp circuit. The windshield wipe and wash functions are controlled directly by the multifunction switch, wiper and washer motor.