Steering Column: Removal
- Disable SIR system (if equipped). Manufacturer recommends removing steering wheel and combination switch before removing steering column as SIR coil is easily damaged. See STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD
and COMBINATION SWITCH
.WARNING: When moving or carrying air bag module, ensure outward side (pad surface area) is away from you. Accidental deployment could cause serious injury. Store air bag module with pad surface upward and away from work area. DO NOT disassemble or tamper with air bag module assembly.
- Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove lower steering column trim cover screws. See Figure . Remove knee bolster. Disconnect steering column electrical connectors. Loosen 2 upper steering column mounting nuts, and lower column slightly.
- If steering wheel was removed, remove upper and lower steering column covers. Disconnect combination switch electrical connector. Loosen combination switch electrical harness wire bands. Remove combination switch from steering column.
- Remove steering shaft joint cover by hand. Remove steering shaft joint upper pinch bolt. Separate steering shaft from joint. Remove lower steering column mounting nuts. Remove upper steering column mounting nuts and lower steering column onto seat. On A/T models, remove shift interlock cable from ignition switch by removing one screw. On all models, remove steering column from vehicle
NOTE:
Measure steering column length to determine if assembly should be replaced. Replace steering column if length is less than 20.79" (528.0 mm).