Steering Column Accident Damage Inspection

Steering Column Accident Damage Inspection

Inspection Procedure

1. Remove the turn signal switch bracket. Refer to Turn Signal Switch Bracket Replacement (Turn Signal Switch Bracket Replacement).

Caution: Vehicles involved in accidents that result in any of the following kinds of damage or situations, may also have a damaged or misaligned steering column:

* Frame damage
* Major body damage
* Sheet metal damage
* If the steering column has been impacted
* If the supplemental inflatable restraints system was deployed

2. Remove the steering column from the vehicle. Refer to Steering Column Replacement (Steering Column Replacement).
3. Rotate the steering column shaft. Verify the shaft turns freely and without interference.




4. Verify the E/A strap retainer (1) is firmly seated on the jacket.
5. Verify there is no visual damage to the E/A strap (2).
6. Measure the length of the upper shaft (b) from the end of the upper jacket to the tip. The length of the upper shaft must not be less than 61 mm (2.4 in).
7. Measure the length of the upper jacket assembly (a). The length of the upper jacket assembly must not be less than 160 mm (6.3 in).
8. If the steering column does not meet the specifications, the steering column is damaged. Discard the damaged steering column. Install a NEW steering column. If the steering column meets the specifications, install the steering column. Refer to Steering Column Replacement (Steering Column Replacement).
9. Install the turn signal switch bracket. Refer to Turn Signal Switch Bracket Replacement (Turn Signal Switch Bracket Replacement).