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 and Tilt Lever Inspection / Adjustment
2004 Acura 3.5RLSECTION Steering Column and Tilt Lever Inspection / Adjustment
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002 Acura 3.2CL, and 2001 Acura 3.2CL. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Check the steering column ball bearing (A) and the steering joint bearings (B) for play and proper movement. If any bearing is noisy or has excessive play, replace the steering column as an assembly.
- Check the retaining collar (C) for damage. If it damaged, replace the steering column as an assembly.
- Check the absorbing plates (D) for distortion or breakage. If there is distortion breakage replace the steering column as an assembly.
- Move the tilt lever (A) from the loose position to the lock position 3 to 5 times. With the tilt lever in the loose position, measure the tilt lever preload 10 mm (0.4 in.) from the end of the tilt lever.
Preload: 70 - 97 N (7 - 9 kgf, 15 - 20 lbf)
- If the measurement is out of the specification, adjust the preload using the following procedures.
- Loosen the tilt lever, and set the steering column in the neutral position.
- Remove the 6 mm lock bolt (B), and remove the stop (C), Be careful not to loosen the tilt lever when installing the stop or tightening the 6 mm lock bolt.
- Adjust the preload by turning the tilt lock bolt (D) left or right.
- Pull up the tilt lever to the uppermost position, and install the stop. Check the preload again. If the measurement is still out of specification, repeat the above procedures to adjust.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.