GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tilt/Telescoping Soft Stops

After replacement of the steering column tilt/telescoping module, it is necessary to program the tilt/telescoping soft stops. Each soft stop is a programmable end of travel that is set approximately 1.3 cm (0.5 in) from the mechanical end of travel. The steering column has a soft stop set at each end of the tilt up/down movement and at each end of the telescoping in/out movement. The system uses soft stops to prevent wear on the system by ensuring that the steering column movement stops before it reaches its mechanical end of travel in any direction. The soft stops are initially programmed at the factory. The stop positions may be reprogrammed, which is necessary any time the steering column tilt/telescoping module is replaced, as described in the following procedure.

Tilt/Telescoping Soft Stop Programming Procedure

  1. Turn ignition to ON, with the engine OFF.
  2. To set the tilt up soft stop, press the tilt/telescoping COLUMN UP switch at least eight times or until the column moves, then release the switch.
  3. Press the tilt/telescoping COLUMN UP switch and hold the switch until the column travels all the way up, and continue to hold the switch about a second after motion stops at the mechanical end of travel. The soft stop for the column up position is now set. The tilt/telescoping module automatically goes back to the normal mode of operation.
  4. Repeat steps 2 and 3, using the COLUMN DOWN switch, to set the column down position soft stop.
  5. Repeat steps 2 and 3, using the COLUMN IN switch, to set the column in position soft stop.
  6. Repeat steps 2 and 3, using the COLUMN OUT switch, to set the column out position soft stop.