Diagnostic Aids
- Before replacing the steering wheel for complaints of not getting hot enough, a reliable infrared temperature gun should be used to measure the temperature at various points around the rim. The steering wheel's normal operating temperature is 32°C (89.6°F) and takes approximately 10 min to reach that temperature. It may take up to 20 min for the normal operating temperature to stabilize within the steering wheel rim. There may be spike in temperature during the first 3-4 min before it stabilizes at normal operating temperature. The steering wheel will take longer to heat up if the vehicle temperature is below -21°C (-5.8°F). The steering wheel heater will not operate when the steering wheel temperature is above 32°C (89.6°F).
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
- The infrared measurements are made at the rim (1) at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions of the steering wheel.
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
- The wood sections and the stitching are not heated. Temperature measurements should not be made on the face (1) to insure accurate temperature readings.