General Description - Steering Column

The steering column includes three important features in addition to the steering function:
- The vehicle is equipped with Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR). The steering wheel module, which contains the air bag, is in the steering wheel.
- The ignition switch and lock are mounted on the column.
- With the column-mounted lock, the ignition and steering operations can be locked to inhibit theft of the vehicle.

The multifunction turn signal lever provides for control of the headlamp beams, the cruise control and the turn signals. The multifunction lever also houses the windshield wiper and washer controls.

When the column is removed from the vehicle, take special care in handling it. The plastic fasteners which maintain column rigidity can be sheared or loosened by using a steering wheel puller other than the one recommended in this manual. Striking sharply on the end of the steering shaft shift lever, leaning on the column or dropping the column could cause internal damage.