Steering Column Trim/Bracket Replacement

STEERING COLUMN OPENING COVER

REMOVAL

WARNING: On vehicles equipped with airbags, disable the airbag system before attempting any steering wheel, steering column, or instrument panel component diagnosis or service. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative (ground) cable, then wait two minutes for the airbag system capacitor to discharge before performing further diagnosis or service. This is the only sure way to disable the airbag system. Failure to take the proper precautions could result in an accidental airbag deployment and possible personal injury.

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
2. If the vehicle is so equipped, set the tilt steering column to its fully raised position.

Fig.30 Steering Column Opening Cover Remove/Install:

3. Remove the three screws that secure the lower edge of the steering column opening cover to the lower instrument panel reinforcement.
4. Using a trim stick or another suitable wide flat-bladed tool, gently pry the upper edge of the steering column opening cover just below the cluster bezel away from the instrument panel on each side of the steering column far enough to disengage the two snap clip retainers from the receptacles in the instrument panel.
5. Remove the steering column opening cover from the instrument panel.

INSTALLATION

WARNING: On vehicles equipped with airbags, disable the airbag system before attempting any steering wheel, steering column, or instrument panel component diagnosis or service. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative (ground) cable, then wait two minutes for the airbag system capacitor to discharge before performing further diagnosis or service. This is the only sure way to disable the airbag system. Failure to take the proper precautions could result in an accidental airbag deployment and possible personal injury.

1. Position the steering column opening cover onto the instrument panel.
2. Align the snap clip retainers near the upper edge of the steering column opening cover with the receptacles in the instrument panel.
3. Press firmly on the steering column opening cover over the snap clip locations until each of the snap clips is fully engaged in its instrument panel receptacle.
4. Install and tighten the three screws that secure the lower edge of the steering column opening cover to the lower instrument panel reinforcement. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N.m (20 in.lbs.).
5. Reconnect the battery negative cable.