Steering Column: Service and Repair

WARNING: SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations, precautions, and procedures before performing repairs or service. Refer to Restraint Systems.

REMOVAL
1. Disconnect both the negative cable and positive cable from the battery.
2. Remove the driver's airbag assembly and steering wheel from the column. Refer to Air Bags and Seat Belts.





3. Remove the dashboard lower panel, dashboard lower pad, and dashboard brace.
4. Disconnect the connector between the cable reel and the SRS main harness, then remove the connector holder.





5. Remove the column lower panel.





6. Remove the column covers.

CAUTION: Be careful not to damage the column covers.





7. Disconnect the TCS sensor connector.





8. Remove the combination switch assembly from the column shaft.

NOTE: The combination switch can be removed by disconnecting only the TCS sensor connector.





9. Remove the steering joint cover.





10. Remove the steering joint bolts and toothed lock washers from the steering joint.





11. Disconnect the ignition switch connectors and remove the column holder, then remove the steering column assembly by removing the 8 mm bolts and flange nuts.

INSTALLATION
1. Slip the lower end of the steering joint onto the pinion shaft.





2. Reposition the column assembly on the hanger bracket, and loosely tighten with 8 mm flange nuts.





3. Tighten to the steering joint bolts.

NOTE: Be sure that the lower bolt is securely in the groove in the steering gearbox pinion shaft. Be sure the pinion shaft and the steering column shaft are aligned; the joint should slip on freely. If not reposition the steering rack to correct the misalignment.





4. Install the column holder with the 8 mm bolts.
5. Tighten the 8 mm flange nuts to the specified torque.
6. Install the steering joint cover with the clamps and clips.
7. Install the combination switch assembly over the column shaft.
8. Reconnect TCS sensor connector.
9. Install the column covers.

CAUTION: Be careful not to damage the column covers.

10. Insert the cable reel 3P connector through the column lower panel, and attach it to the column lower panel with the connector holder. Then connect the SRS main harness and cable reel 3P connector.





11. Install the column lower panel.
12. Install the dashboard brace and dashboard lower pad.
13. Connect the foot well light harness and light-on warning chime to the dashboard lower panel, then install the dashboard lower panel.
14. Install the steering wheel and driver's airbag assembly to the column. Refer to Air Bags and Seat Belts.