* Worn or damaged wiring harness: The steering column houses a significant amount of wiring for various functions like turn signals, wipers, cruise control, and airbag deployment. Age, wear, chafing against metal parts, or rodent damage can cause wires to short circuit, overheat, and smoke. This is the most probable cause.
* Faulty ignition switch: The ignition switch is located in the steering column and is a common point of failure. A malfunctioning switch can draw excessive current, leading to overheating and smoke.
* Column shifter issues (if equipped): If your LeSabre has a column-mounted shifter, problems within its wiring or switch mechanism could generate smoke.
* Clock spring failure: The clock spring is a spiral cable that allows the steering wheel to turn freely while maintaining electrical connections to the airbag and other components. A short or break in the clock spring can cause significant heat and smoke. (Especially concerning as a failing clock spring can also disable your airbag.)
* Failing resistor or other electrical component: Less likely, but a small electrical component within the steering column could fail, overheat, and smoke.
What NOT to do:
* Do not continue driving the vehicle. This is a serious safety hazard. The smoke indicates an electrical fault that could easily lead to a fire.
* Do not attempt to diagnose or repair the problem yourself unless you are a qualified auto electrician with experience in working with automotive electrical systems, particularly those in the steering column. The airbag system is involved, and improper handling could lead to accidental deployment or injury.
What to do:
* Have the vehicle towed to a qualified mechanic or repair shop. Emphasize the smoking steering column to ensure they take appropriate safety precautions.
* Describe the issue clearly: Mention the location of the smoke, when it occurred, and any accompanying sounds or smells (burning plastic, etc.).
A qualified mechanic will be able to properly diagnose the problem, often using a multi-meter to check for shorts or excessive current draw, and then safely repair or replace the faulty component. Ignoring this problem could lead to a much more expensive repair, or worse.
