Circuit/System Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Pontiac G5 and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The radio supplies voltage to the audio steering wheel control switches and monitors the return signal. Each switch state is associated to a set resistance value and when pressed a specific voltage drop occurs across the resistor unique to the switch. The radio identifies the switch selection and activates the feature.