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.
Column Collapse Feature
Steering column is designed to collapse if impacted during a collision. Steering shaft and column jacket are both 2-piece units which are internally injected with plastic. Plastic protrudes from holes in each unit keeping 2 separate pieces held together as one unit. See Figure - Figure . If the column or steering wheel is forcefully impacted, plastic pieces break off, allowing column and shaft to collapse.
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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