Steering Column

The column is of a modular construction and features easy to service electrical switches. The structural part of the steering column is made of magnesium die castings. The steering column is attached to a cross car beam assembly. The lower attachments of the steering column are through a steering column bend bracket that bends during collapse. The upper attachments are through plastic shear modules that separate from the main casting during collapse. A clip and washer are attached to the shear modules to reduce steering column tube shake and to assist in installation of the steering column to the cross car beam.

A unique steering column-mounted shifter mechanism is used. It has the transmission shift selector position insert plate located away from the shift control selector lever and interacts with the shift control selector lever through a linkage system. This system incorporates a brake-shift interlock which prevents shifting out of Park unless the brake pedal is depressed.

The tilt-design steering column incorporates an air bag module in the steering wheel. Fixed steering columns do not allow the steering wheel angle to be adjusted.

The steering column is equipped with a lock mechanism which locks the steering wheel, ignition switch, and gearshift lever when the ignition switch lock cylinder is turned to the OFF position.