Steering Column Opening Cover Replacement

REMOVAL

WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS, REFER TO AIRBAGS BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
2. If the vehicle is so equipped, move the tilt steering column to the fully raised position.
3. Remove the end cap from the left end of the instrument panel. See Instrument Panel End Cap Replacement.

Steering Column Opening Cover Remove/Install:

4. Remove the three screws that secure the lower edge of the steering column opening cover to the knee blocker.
5. Remove the two screws that secure the out board end of the steering column opening cover to the left instrument panel end bracket.
6. Using a trim stick or another suitable wide flat-bladed tool, gently pry the upper edge of the steering column opening cover away from the instrument panel just below the cluster bezel to release the four snap clip retainers that secure the cover to the instrument panel.
7. Remove the steering column opening cover from the instrument panel.
8. Reverse the removal procedures to install. Tighten the mounting screws to 2.2 N.m (20 in. lbs.).