Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Function description
Function switches/buttons integrated into the multi-function steering wheel allow the driver to safely operate the radio, telephone and Tiptronic controls (models equipped with automatic transmission). In addition, the steering wheel is electrically heated.
Integrated electronics the steering wheel regulate the steering wheel heating, transmission of function switch/button operations to the vehicle CAN-Bus network and dimming (illumination) of the function buttons.
The control module for the multi-function steering wheel controls radio, radio/navigation, telephone, instrument cluster, steering wheel heating and Tiptronic (automatic transmission) functions.
The center display in the instrument cluster shows the currently selected radio channel, and when the telephone is being used, the telephone number being called (from the telephone memory). The display also indicates if either the radio plays a cassette tape (display shows: "TAPE < >", or if the CD changer is in operation (display shows: "CD 02" and the CD track number being played.
The multi-function steering wheel is a part of the overall system "steering column switch module" and sends data to the Steering Column Electronic Systems Control Module - J527-.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.