Steering Column Removal and Installation

Steering Column Removal and Installation
SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations and the precautions and procedures before performing repairs or service.

Removal
1. Make sure you have the anti-theft codes for the radio and the navigation system.
2. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
3. Remove the driver's airbag assembly and the steering wheel.





4. Remove the steering joint cover A.





5. Set the column shaft/A) in the neutral position by pulling up the steering column to uppermost position, then lower it 8 mm (0.31 inch). Tighten the tilt lever (B).





6. Remove the column covers (A).
7. Move the shift lever (B) to the N position, and remove the shift cable from the column, and set it aside.
8. Remove the combination switch assembly (C) from the steering column shaft by removing the three mounting screws, and disconnecting the connectors.
9. Disconnect the ignition switch connectors and disconnect the harness clips.
10. Disconnect the immobilizer receiver unit, the park pin switch, and the shift lock solenoid.
11. Disconnect the steering joint (D), and remove it from the column shaft.
12. Remove the steering column (E) by removing the attaching nuts and bolts.
13. Remove the center guide (F) (if equipped) from the top of the pinion shaft, and discard it. The center guide is for factory assembly use only.

Installation
1. Install the steering column in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
^ Take care not to let the sliding plates fall out of position during column installation.
^ Make sure the wires are not caught or pinched by any parts.
2. Center the steering rack within its stroke.





3. Insert the upper end of the steering joint onto the steering shaft (A) (line up the bolt hole (B) with the flat portion (C) on the shaft), and loosely install the upper joint bolt.
4. Slip the lower end of the steering joint onto the pinion shaft taking care to align the gap (D) within the angle.





5. Align the bolt hole (A) on the steering joint with the groove (B) around the pinion shaft then loosely install the lower joint bolt (C).
6. Pull on the steering joint to make sure that the steering joint is fully seated, then tighten the lower joint bolt to the specified torque.
7. Tighten the upper joint bolt (D) to the specified torque.





8. Install the steering joint cover (A) with the clamps (B) and clips (C).
9. Install the steering wheel.
10. Connect the negative battery cable.
^ Do the power window control unit reset procedure.
^ Enter the anti-theft codes for the radio and the navigation system, then the customer's radio station preset.
^ Set the clock.
^ Make sure the steering wheel is centered.