Steering Column: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Position the front seats rearward.
Remove the air bag sliding contact. For additional information, refer to AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS .
Disconnect the multifunction switch and headlamp switch electrical connectors.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Multifunction Switch And Headlamp Switch Electrical Connectors
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the wiring harness.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Wiring Harness
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If equipped, disconnect the selector lever shift cable from the selector lever and bracket.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Selector Lever Shift Cable From Selector Lever And Bracket
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the passive anti-theft system (PATS) transceiver module electrical connector and pin-type retainer.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Transceiver Module Electrical Connector And Pin-Type Retainer
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the trim panel.

Fig 5: Removing Trim Panel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the electrical connectors.

Fig 6: Disconnecting Electrical Connectors
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Position the boot aside.

Fig 7: Positioning Boot Aside
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the pinch bolt/nut and disconnect the steering column shaft from the flexible coupling.

Fig 8: Removing Pinch Bolt/Nut And Disconnecting Steering Column Shaft From Flexible Coupling
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the steering column support bolt.

Fig 9: Removing Steering Column Support Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Loosen the nuts and remove the steering column.

Fig 10: Loosening Nuts And Removing Steering Column
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.