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.
Collapsible Steering Columns: Description
The four basic types of collapsible steering columns are as follows :
Type 1 - A steering column unit consisting of, a jacket with a collapsible mesh section.
Type 2 - A steering column unit consisting of, a jacket with a collapsible bellows (accordian) section.
Type 3 - A steering column unit comprising of, an outer jacket, comprised of two tubes of different diameters joined together by two rows of ball bearings, which are pressed into position.
Type 4 - A corrugated cylinder fastened to steering wheel between wheel and bearing housing.
Under head-on collision conditions these steering columns are designed to telescope at a controlled rate. In addition, if the driver is thrown forward into steering wheel, the column can telescope further at the same controlled rate. Incorporated into any one of the above mentioned columns, is a two piece telescoping transmission gearshift tube interconnected by plastic inserts and shear pins. A two piece telescoping steering shaft with upper and lower sections connected by plastic collars and pins. A mounting bracket connecting steering column and instrument panel allows column to slide forward but blocks its rearward movement towards driver. On some models a collapsible corrugated cylinder or "can assembly" is placed between the steering wheel and the bearing housing to provide for impact absorbtion.
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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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