Steering Column Intermediate Shaft

INTERMEDIATE SHAFT
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT
The steering column (to steering gear) intermediate shaft has an integrated lower coupler with universal joint. The entire assembly MUST be replaced whenever any of the following conditions exist.
- Whenever a vehicle is involved in a collision which deploys the airbag, regardless of the extent of damage done to the vehicle.
- If a vehicle is involved in an impact of the vehicle's front suspension or undercarriage, which results in any type of damage to the front crossmember.
- Under any conditions which result in the steering column assembly or steering column shaft receiving a force great enough to move the steering column or shaft forward or rearward in the vehicle.
Inspect the intermediate shaft and integrated coupler for the following conditions:
- Seized bearing
- Loose bearing stake
- Bearing not seated properly
The steering column intermediate shaft MUST be replaced as an entire assembly if a problem condition is found.