Description And Operation: Notes
DESCRIPTION
The Electronic Steering Lock (ESL) system consists of the following components:
| 1. | Refer to BODY CONTROL MODULE (BCM) . |
| 2. | Refer to ELECTRONIC STEERING LOCK (ESL) . |
| 3. | Refer to KEYLESS IGNITION NODE (KIN) . |
Vehicles manufactured for Europe-Middle East-Africa (EMEA) markets only have an electromechanical device called an ESL that locks (key OFF) and unlocks (key ON) the steering upon request by the BCM. The steering lock module is located on the steering column in the same position where the ignition switch would be found. The ESL is only present on cars with FOBIK-type key and the KIN module (Start/Stop button). Vehicles with a key with groove have the classic mechanical steering lock.
The ESL module transmits data and communicates with the other modules involved in the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) via CAN-C.
In normal operating conditions the ESL module unlocks the steering column if, and only if, the FOBIK in the vehicle is identified by the SKIS as a valid key.
OPERATION
The Radio Frequency Hub (RFH) Module and the ESL module are no longer linked electronically. During servicing, one can be replaced independently of the other.
Steering column locking
Before sending the steering locking request to the ESL module, the BCM checks the following parameters:
- Ignition status: the transition from ON or ON with engine running to OFF must be detected.
- Driver side door status: the transition from driver side door closed to driver side door open must be detected.
- For versions with automatic transmission only. Automatic transmission status: the transmission must be in Park ("P").
If one of the three conditions is not satisfied, the BCM will not send the steering column locking request to the ESL module.
If the vehicle has a manual gearbox, the BCM will only check the first two parameters (ignition status and driver side door status). If they are satisfied, the ESL module will lock the steering column when the vehicle speed is below a minimum threshold.
The ESL module receives the vehicle speed signal from the Antilock Brake System (ABS) module. The acquisition of the vehicle speed signal continues even after the ignition switch is turned to "OFF".
Steering column unlocking
When the BCM receives the information that the Stop/Start button has been pressed from the RFH module, it requests that the RFH module carry out key recognition. If the key is identified as a valid key, the BCM will send a steering column unlocking request to the ESL module. If instead the key is identified as an invalid key or missing key, the BCM will not send any steering column unlocking request.