Removal and Installation

Part 1:

Part 2:

Removal and installation
REMOVAL

CAUTION:
^ The rotation of the spiral cable (SRS air bag component part) is limited. If the steering gear must be removed, set the front wheels in the straight-ahead direction. Do not rotate the steering column while the steering gear is removed.
^ Remove the steering wheel before disconnecting the coupling joint to avoid damaging the spiral cable.

1. Disconnect battery negative terminal.
2. If necessary, remove the steering wheel. Refer to "Removal and Installation".
3. Remove the instrument column cover and lower driver instrument panel. Refer to "INSTRUMENT PANEL ASSEMBLY".
4. Remove the combination meter. Refer to "Combination Meter".
5. Remove the cluster lid and center console assembly. Refer to "Removal and Installation".
6. Remove the instrument panel screws from the LH side of the instrument panel to allow the ignition switch to clear the instrument panel during removal.
7. Remove lower knee protector.
8. Disconnect the following:
^ Headlamp switch
^ Wiper switch
^ Spiral cable
^ Key switch and key lock solenoid
^ MATS antenna amplifier
^ Illumination lamp
^ Ignition switch
^ Column harness clips, position aside
9. Remove the shaft lower cover.
10. Remove the pinch bolt.
11. Remove the steering column nuts and steering column.

INSPECTION AFTER REMOVAL
When the steering wheel does not turn smoothly, check the steering column as follows:

1. Check the column bearings for damage or unevenness. Lubricate with recommended multi-purpose grease. Replace the steering column as an assembly, if necessary.
2. Check the column tube for deformation or breakage. Replace the steering column as an assembly, if necessary
^ If the vehicle has been involved in a collision, or if noise and rattles are heard during a turn, check the length (L) of the column.
^ On models equipped with telescopic feature, make sure the column is in the forward most position before measuring.





^ If out of specification, replace the steering column as an assembly.
Steering column length (L): 496 mm (19.53 inch)
^ Check for proper lubrication, apply grease as necessary.
^ Check for wear around the seal edges, replace as necessary.
^ Check for corrosion or pitting around the seal sliding area.
^ Replace the seal and shaft in case of seal edge wear or damage.





^ After installing the steering column, check the tilt mechanism for proper operation.
Tilt mechanism range: 3° per notch at 7 steps

CAUTION:
^ Do not exert any load or impact in the axial direction immediately before or after column removal.
^ After installation check for smooth steering wheel rotation, without any catches or noise.
^ Replace the column if it is depleted of grease, worn, damaged, or if any scratches or coating separation are present on the shaft seal area.
^ The nut on the upper joint may not be reused.
^ During lower joint detachment, insert a tool into the yoke groove to prevent gouging damage.
^ A washer must be used on all fastener bolts.

INSTALLATION
Installation is in the reverse order of removal.

CAUTION: When installing the steering column, finger-tighten all of the lower bracket and joint retaining bolts; then tighten them to specification. Do not apply undue stress to the steering column.





NOTE: Align slit of the coupling joint with projection on dust cover. Insert the joint until surface A contacts surface B.

^ After installation, turn steering wheel to make sure it moves smoothly. Ensure the number of turns are the same from the straight-forward position to left and right locks. Be sure that the steering wheel is in a neutral position when driving straight ahead.