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.
Theory Of Operation
The Power Side Step Module (PSSM) functions in two ways. The PSSM either deploys or retracts through the opening or closing of the drivers and or the passengers side door while the system is in automatic mode. Automatic mode is supported via setting in the radio. The Power Side Step Motor is commanded through the Power Side Step Module and reacts based on the vehicles' side that the door opens or closes. After closing of the door there is a 4.5 second delay before the side step retracts. Through manually deploying and retracting the steps via an option in the radio (this deploy/retracts both sides at the same time). The system supports obstacle detection through hall counts and current draw of the motors. Once an obstacle is detected, the system will return to the original starting position. Once 3 obstacles are detected, the system pauses in mid position until another command (door ajar status change, or manual operation).
Within the "system" of PSSM, the components include:
- Power Side Step Module (PSSM)
- Power Side Step Motors (and assembly)
- BCM (Body Control Module), only used to gate a signal from PSSM to Cluster
- Radio
- Cluster
The PSSM makes all the "decisions" in the system. The cluster is used to display the message to the customer (such as "PSSM service required", "put in park to operate", etc.). Radio is used as the interface between the customer and the power side step system (for Auto/Manual mode and Deploy/Stow).
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.
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