The steering wheel and column has 4 primary functions:

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.

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:

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.

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 ignition lock cylinder control actuator's purpose is to prevent the ignition key from being turned to the OFF position when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle may still be moving. The column ignition lock system consists of a ignition lock cylinder control actuator , and a ignition lock cylinder control switch that is located in the floor mounted console gear shifter. The ignition lock cylinder control actuator contains a pin that is spring loaded so as not to engage the ignition lock cylinder when the vehicle is in Park. When the vehicle is in Park, the ignition lock cylinder control switch is open and allows the ignition lock cylinder to be turned to the Lock position. When the ignition lock cylinder is in Accessory or Run position and the vehicle transmission shifter is in any other gear, the ignition lock cylinder control switch is closed and the ignition lock cylinder control actuator is engaged to the ignition lock cylinder, preventing the ignition lock cylinder from being turned to the Lock position and the ignition key from being removed.