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HOMESERVICE MANUALSAUDI1998A4 AVANT QUATTRO, AUTOMATICREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)STEERINGSTEERING COLUMNREMOVAL & INSTALLATIONSTEERING COLUMNINSTALLATION
1998 Audi A4 Avant Quattro, Automatic

Steering Column: Installation

1998 Audi A4 Avant Quattro, AutomaticSECTION Installation
  1. Install steering column into upper column, ensuring wire harness is not damaged. Install column mounting bolts.
  2. Center steering column by sliding up and down in support so that flex coupling does not bind when steering wheel is turned. Remove wire securing steering column.
  3. Install instrument panel insert and steering column switch. Install steering wheel. Connect air bag voltage supply connector.
  4. Install horn pad and reconnect negative battery cable. Reactivate air bag system. Check AIRBAG indicator light to ensure system is functioning properly.


  1. Slide steering column into steering column so that the distance is 0.79" (20 mm). See Fig 1. Install steering lock housing in steering column tube. Install connector housing on ignition switch. Install steering column tube in bracket. Install column tube mounting bolts.
    Fig 1: Sliding Steering Column Into Position (A6 & A6 Quattro)
    G98F07693Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.
  2. Center steering column tube by sliding up and down in support so that flex coupling does not bind when steering wheel is turned. Reverse removal procedure to complete installation.


  1. Slide steering column from below into opening in instrument panel. Insert steering column tube into bracket. Install screws in bracket and column tube. Insert ignition key in steering lock. Release steering lock so that steering can be turned as necessary. Press steering column onto universal joint flange and install fasteners.
  2. Slide column tube up and down to align in bracket until bolts can be tightened without stress or preload on assembly. Attach steering column tube to bracket. Attach harness connector to steering lock housing.
  3. Install spring over steering column, and lock washers in position. Thread spindle tensioner (3168) onto steering column as far as possible. Thread nut back as necessary. Hold spindle and tighten hex nut to compress spring until reaching specified distance .39-.47" (10-12 mm). See Fig 1. Back off nut and unscrew spindle from steering column. Check distance 2.15-2.19" (54.5-55.5 mm). See Fig 2.
    Fig 1: Install Steering Column Spring And Lock Washers (Cabriolet)
    G98H07694Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.
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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.