Heated Steering Wheel

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When the SCCM receives a request to heat the steering wheel, the SCCM applies voltage and ground to the steering wheel heating elements (integral to the steering wheel) to heat the steering wheel to a temperature of approximately 28-34 deg. C (82-94 deg. F). The heated steering wheel temperature is maintained by the SCCM using a temperature sensor in the steering wheel.

The SCCM is designed to remain on, heating the steering wheel and maintaining the temperature until switched off on the FDIM or the ignition is turned off.

The controls and indicators for the heated steering wheel system are located on the FDIM (touchscreen) only. The FDIM does not communicate on any network and is connected directly to the APIM.

Remote Start System

The heated steering wheel system (along with the heated front seats) may be configured using the message center to activate when the remote start feature is used, based on outside air temperature. During remote start, the outside air temperature is continually evaluated by the HVAC system. The heated steering wheel system activation changes if the outside air changes from cold to moderate or warm temperatures or back from moderate or warm to cold temperatures.

Component Description

Conventional Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is a multiple position rotary switch that is controlled by a lock cylinder and a key. The ignition switch is monitored by the BCM, which controls the voltage to the various electrical systems depending on input from the ignition switch.

The key removal inhibit solenoid (internal to the ignition switch) is an electronically controlled solenoid that prevents the ignition lock cylinder from being turned to the OFF/LOCK position unless the selector lever is in the PARK position. This also prevents the key from being removed from the ignition lock cylinder.

Push Button Ignition Switch

The push button ignition switch is a momentary dual contact switch that provides direct input to the BCM and PCM. Both sets of contacts are normally open. When the START/STOP button is pressed, one set of contacts provides a ground signal to the BCM and the other set of contacts supplies voltage to the BCM and the PCM.

The ignition mode LED indicator is located near the top of the START/STOP button and is controlled by the BCM.

SCCM

The SCCM controls the steering wheel heating elements. The SCCM uses the steering wheel temperature sensor to maintain the steering wheel temperature. The SCCM is designed to remain on, heating the steering wheel and maintaining temperature until switched off using the FDIM or the ignition is turned off.

The SCCM requires PMI when replaced.

BCM

The BCM controls the run/start relays and sets the vehicle ignition mode based on inputs from the ignition switch. It communicates the ignition mode to other modules over the CAN. If a fault is detected with the ignition switch system, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are set in the BCM.

The BCM requires at least 2 keys to be programmed and PMI when replaced. Additionally, the parameter reset procedure must be carried out.