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: Description
Steering columns are designated as fixed or tilt column, and as column shift or floor shift. Column shift and floor shift columns are basically same except for shift tube on column shift steering columns.
Steering column components is are designed to collapse if impacted by driver during a collision. Steering shaft, column jacket and shift tube (column shift) are 2-piece units that are injected with plastic to hold the 2 pieces rigidly together as one unit. If column and/or steering wheel are impacted, the injected plastic will shear, allowing the column assembly to collapse.
Use extreme caution when servicing steering column on vehicles with Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system. Air bag could deploy at any time. Before servicing steering column, see SERVICE PRECAUTIONS .
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:
- • 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.
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