Telescopic Steering Wheel Switch Issues
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,102
Likes: 470
From: Newark Delaware
Telescopic Steering Wheel Switch Issues
1999 C5 convertible, 89k miles. Recently, the telescopic steering wheel function had a problem. The wheel would extend and retract automatically when the ignition is started (extends) and when it is turned off (retracts). However, moving it manually via the switch was a problem. It would extend via the switch but would not retract via the switch. Not a big deal but was making some fine tuning difficult and did not allow me to retract it without turning the ignition off (if I wanted to get out of the car without turning the ignition off). So, I ordered a new switch and installed it today. When I hooked it up while everything was hanging loose and apart, I tested it to make sure it worked, and, it did! I could extend and retract using the switch. Great! I tested it many times, very pleased with myself for solving the problem. I also put in a new multifunction (turn signal/headlight) switch that I have had sitting on the shelf for four years after an incident with the headlights (that never occurred again which is why the switch went uninstalled for so long).
But when I got everything back together - wires tucked away, knee bolster back on, upper and lower shrouds - nope, no retract. The switch works to extend it but, just as in the original problem, won't retract. I'm flummoxed as to what the problem might be. Any insight appreciated.
K9Leader
But when I got everything back together - wires tucked away, knee bolster back on, upper and lower shrouds - nope, no retract. The switch works to extend it but, just as in the original problem, won't retract. I'm flummoxed as to what the problem might be. Any insight appreciated.
K9Leader
Zen Vet Master Level VII
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 5,213
Likes: 1,173
From: Southlake, TX
So, I ordered a new switch and installed it today. When I hooked it up while everything was hanging loose and apart, I tested it to make sure it worked, and, it did!....... I tested it many times, very pleased with myself for solving the problem......
But when I got everything back together - wires tucked away, knee bolster back on, upper and lower shrouds - nope, no retract. The switch works to extend it but, just as in the original problem, won't retract.
But when I got everything back together - wires tucked away, knee bolster back on, upper and lower shrouds - nope, no retract. The switch works to extend it but, just as in the original problem, won't retract.
My gut tells me that the install put some pressure on the wires and broke contact. There is little room in there and wires need to be put back neatly.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,102
Likes: 470
From: Newark Delaware
So, played with it more this morning. The switch does work to retract the wheel as long as I am not sitting in the seat. If I am outside the car and reach in, it works. But if my big ol' behind is settled in the seat, no go. Lifting myself up and hovering off the seat (quite a feat, even if only for a few seconds) and it works. I'm guessing a sensor in the seat? Doesn't make a difference if seat belt is buckled or unbuckled.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,102
Likes: 470
From: Newark Delaware
Last edited by K9Leader; Apr 30, 2023 at 09:38 PM.
Zen Vet Master Level VII
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 5,213
Likes: 1,173
From: Southlake, TX
