Steering Column: Removal

NOTE: To prevent damage to the clockspring, make sure the front wheels are in the straight-ahead position.

NOTE: Precise tolerances are required when manufacturing a steering column. Never install a repaired, rebuilt, aftermarket, or remanufactured steering column. Always install a new steering column. Failure to follow this direction can result in steering column failure.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

WARNING: Turn the ignition OFF and wait one minute to deplete the backup power supply. Ignition must remain OFF until repair is complete. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury or death in the event of an accidental deployment.

If a SRS fault is present, continue to Step 2. Otherwise, turn the ignition off, wait at least one minute and continue to Step 3.
Depower the SRS. Refer to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Depowering .
NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

Remove the SCCM. Refer to: Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) .
NOTE: This step is not necessary when installing a new component.

Remove the steering column shrouds. Refer to: Steering Column Shrouds .
NOTE: Make sure that the steering wheel does not rotate or damage to the clockspring may occur.

Secure the steering wheel.

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All vehicles
NOTE: Push button start vehicle shown, all others similar.

Lower the steering column opening trim panel.

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NOTE: Any time the parking brake switch electrical connector has been disconnected, the EPB system is deactivated and a DTC is stored in the ABS module. Perform the following step to restore the EPB system and clear the ABS module DTC.

Apply and release the parking brake twice, pausing with the switch in the NEUTRAL (AT REST) position between apply and release. Disconnect the electrical connector(s).

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NOTE: Push button start vehicle shown, all others similar.

Remove the screws and the steering column opening trim panel.

Torque: 80 lb.in (9 Nm)

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Remove the bolts and the steering column reinforcement panel.
Torque: 80 lb.in (9 Nm)

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Vehicles with selector lever
NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

Remove the screw and the selector lever.

Torque: 159 lb.in (18 Nm)

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All vehicles
NOTE: Vehicles equipped with power adjustable steering column shown, all others similar.

Release the retainers and position the wire harness aside.

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Vehicles with power adjustable steering column
Disconnect the power tilt motor and power telescopic motor electrical connectors.

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All vehicles
NOTE: The deployable steering column electrical connector retaining tabs are not easily accessible. Using an inspection mirror and needle-nose pliers may help in viewing and releasing the electrical connector retaining tabs.

Disconnect the deployable column electrical connector.

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WARNING: Install a new steering column shaft bolt. Reuse could result in bolt failure and loss of vehicle control. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious injury to vehicle occupant(s).

Remove and discard the bolt and disconnect the upper steering column shaft.

Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)

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WARNING: Do not reuse steering column nuts. This may result in fastener failure and steering column detachment or loss of steering control. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious injury to vehicle occupant(s).

Remove and discard the nuts.

Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)

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Remove and discard the bolts and remove the steering column.
Torque: 21 lb.ft (28 Nm)

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