Steering Column: Service and Repair

After the column has been removed from the vehicle, take care not to drop it, deliver any sharp impacts, or lean on it. These actions may loosen or shear off the plastic fasteners which maintain column rigidity. Avoid rotating column shaft or SRS component damage may result.

1. Place front wheels in straight-ahead position, then turn ignition to Lock position.
2. Disconnect and isolate battery ground cable.
3. Disarm SRS as outlined under Technician Safety Information.
4. Remove all column trim panels and shrouds.
5. Remove steering wheel using puller tool No. J1859-A, or equivalent.
6. Remove bolts and nuts from toe plate and support brackets.
7. Lower the column, then disconnect all electrical connectors.
8. Remove column from vehicle.
9. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Lower the column end through cowl opening and connect all electrical connectors.
b. Raise column into place, then rotate it up over two studs and loosely assemble two nuts.
c. Install lower and upper column bolts and nuts, then toe plate bolts, and tighten to specifications.
d. Install wheel, then arm SRS as outlined under Technician Safety Information.