What does on/off mean on the steering wheel?
4 Answers
ON on the steering wheel means turn on, and off means turn off. The ON button represents turning on: Turn the key to the on position to power the car, and if you continue to turn to the start position, you can start the engine. After turning to the on position, all electrical equipment in the car can be used. There are four positions in the car's ignition switch system, and on is one of them. After turning on the car, the vehicle remains in this position during driving, which is called the car's ready-to-start function. The OFF button represents turning off: OFF is the turn-off button for the vehicle stability control system (Vehicle Electronic Stability System, which is a car anti-skid device that can control both the driving wheels and the driven wheels, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation)). This system is turned on by default, and long-pressing this button can turn it off.
After driving for so many years, the on/off button on the steering wheel is one of the most frequently used functions. It usually represents the switch for the cruise control system. Once pressed to activate, the car can automatically maintain the current speed on the highway, making driving much easier without constantly pressing the accelerator. I remember relying on this button during my last trip from Shanghai to Hangzhou, which saved me a lot of energy. There might be slight differences between car models, such as button placement or sensitivity, but the basic function remains the same. Of course, safety comes first—avoid activating it in heavy traffic to prevent delayed reactions. Additionally, before long-term use, it's best to check the vehicle manual to ensure proper settings and avoid accidents.
When I first started learning to drive, I was also quite curious about the 'on/off' label on the steering wheel. Later, I asked the instructor and learned that this is the cruise control button, which allows the car to automatically maintain speed when pressed. This feature is particularly useful for long-distance driving, such as highway sections during weekend outings - just activate it and enjoy the convenience. However, don't mistake it for a volume or radio switch; it has its dedicated control module. If the button isn't responsive, it might be a contact issue - a simple wipe should do. I recommend beginners practice more in open road sections to familiarize themselves with the operation, as safe driving is always the top priority.
From the perspective of vehicle engineering, the on/off button on the steering wheel is directly connected to the cruise control system. Pressing it activates the ECU module, which adjusts the throttle opening via electronic signals to achieve automatic speed regulation. The button itself has a simple structure and is prone to wear. During daily use, keep it clean and avoid liquid ingress to prevent short circuits. The system also includes speed setting buttons. When using them in combination, ensure stable voltage to prevent electronic interference faults. During maintenance, prioritize checking the fuses.
