Collision Repair Training | United States
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Current Events/News: Advantage Online: 2006 Archives
WHAT'S IN A STEERING WHEEL?
April 3, 2006 - While it is common knowledge that a steering wheel is the device used for the steering control on vehicles, taking a closer look at most vehicles today will reveal that it has evolved into more than just a piece of equipment used to maneuver a vehicle thanks to advancements in technology. The steering wheel is an ideal location for various systems or controls due to the fact that it is where the driver’s hands should be placed. Some of the more common elements found on a steering wheel are familiar (see Figure 1). The steering wheel is the usual location for the horn button. To protect the driver in case of a frontal collision, an airbag is usually mounted inside the steering wheel hub. Steering wheels may consist of many different materials (see Figure 2). These may include, but are not necessarily limited to, various metals, leather, wood, plastics, and foam. Metals used to make steering wheel frames may include steel, aluminum, or magnesium. The use of aluminum or magnesium allows for a lightweight frame. Electronic System Controls Today, steering wheels are becoming increasingly more complex as more features are being integrated with them. To accommodate drivers with added safety, comfort, and convenience, steering wheels are being equipped with controls for various electronic systems. Some of the electronic systems that may be operated from steering wheel mounted controls include the audio systems (radio, CD, MP3, and/or cassette tape player), cruise control, climate control, and navigation systems (see Figure 3). Steering wheels that are equipped with such features allow the driver to access a desired audio system and adjust the volume, set the cruise control, the climate inside the vehicle, and use the navigation aid, all without looking away from the direction of travel. Cruise Control and Adaptive Cruise Control Depending on availability with some vehicles, steering wheel mounted cruise control switches may operate both a conventional and adaptive cruise control system. For more information on adaptive cruise control systems, see the I-CAR Online Training program Adaptive Cruise Control. Typical cruise control switches that may be integrated into the steering wheel include the set/decelerate, resume/accelerate, and cancel switches (see Figure 4). On some systems there may also be a main cruise control system on/off switch. Vehicles with adaptive cruise control systems may have additional controls integrated into the steering wheel. On the 2006 Infiniti M45, equipped with the Intelligent Cruise Control system (the Infiniti name for adaptive cruise control), there is a distance switch used to select vehicle-to-vehicle distance settings. On the 2006 Jaguar XK, a thumb wheel mounted on the steering wheel is used to initially engage cruise control and to increase or decrease the set speed. Hands-Free Phone Controls Hands-free cell phone controls, which allow sending and receiving a phone call without holding a phone, may also be integrated into a steering wheel. Controls for this feature may include answering or ending a call and volume control (see Figure 5). Hands-free cell phone controls on the steering wheel can be found on vehicles such as the 2006 Acura TL and 2006 Infiniti M45. A hands-free system operates by using Bluetooth® technology as a wireless link between it and a Bluetooth compatible cell phone. More information on Bluetooth can be found in the February 21, 2005 Advantage Online article Wireless Connection Technologies. Heated Steering Wheels To provide additional comfort, some steering wheels have the capability of being heated. One steering wheel manufacturer uses an electro-conductive heating element, which requires low power and provides a quick heat-up. The heated steering wheel system on a 2006 Cadillac DTS consists of a heated steering wheel, switch, and heat module. The heated steering wheel includes a non-serviceable heating element and temperature sensor. The heating element and sensor are located in the rim of the steering wheel. The heat module is located on the backside of the steering wheel center hub. Transmission Controls Shifting the transmission is another function that may be done from the steering wheel. On the 2006 Jaguar XK, transmission gear selection can be done using steering wheel mounted shift paddles. To shift up, the shift up (+) paddle on the right side of the steering wheel is pulled toward the driver. To shift down, the shift down (-) paddle on the left side of the steering wheel is pulled toward the driver. Additional Features Other integrated steering wheel features being developed may include a microphone for the hands-free telephone system, a steering wheel cooling function, sensors to monitor a driver’s vital functions, and feedback capabilities the driver will physically feel to provide driver alertness. This includes the concept of vibrating the steering wheel to warn of an impending lane departure. Conclusion With all these possible features, it is clear that the steering wheel has developed into more than just a device for maneuvering a vehicle. Multi-function controls have led to improved comfort and convenience for drivers. Collision damage estimating and repair has become more challenging because of these advancements. Estimators and repair technicians should be aware that it is important to maintain the reliability of steering wheels and any integrated systems by providing complete and accurate repairs. Want to learn more? The following I-CAR training program(s) were mentioned in the above article:
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