Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Steering Column Assembly: Installation
Position steering column assembly into hole in floorboard. Align reference marks, and install steering joint onto pinion shaft. Install and tighten steering joint pinch bolts. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONSΒ table at end of article. Install steering joint cover. Install steering column to underside of dashboard. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.
- Position steering column assembly into hole on floorboard. Align bolt hole in steering joint with slot in steering shaft. Insert shaft into steering joint.
- Install steering column mounting bolts/nuts, and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONSΒ table at end of article. Install and tighten lower steering joint pinch bolt. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.
- Install steering wheel. See STEERING WHEEL & HORN PADΒ under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Activate air bag system. See ACTIVATING SYSTEMΒ under DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM (LEGEND).
- Guide steering shaft through engine bulkhead. Align bolt hole in steering joint with slot in steering shaft, insert shaft into steering joint and install bolt.
- Install steering column assembly and nuts and steering column holder. Connect ignition switch connector. Install combination switch assembly.NOTE: Ensure wires are not caught or pinched by any parts when connecting combination switch and cable reel.
- Install turn signal switch canceling sleeve and cable reel onto steering column.NOTE: Align slot in canceling sleeve with projection on cable reel.
- Install SRS wiring harness on underside of column bracket using clip. Install steering joint cover using clamps and clip. Install upper and lower column covers. Install driver-side knee bolster and lower cover. Install steering wheel and air bag assembly.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
