2007 Lexus ES 350FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Steering Column Assembly: Removal

  1. PRECAUTION 

    HINT:

    (See PRECAUTION  )

  2. PLACE FRONT WHEELS FACING STRAIGHT AHEAD 
  3. REMOVE FRONT WHEEL LH 
  4. DISCONNECT CABLE FROM NEGATIVE BATTERY TERMINAL 
    1. Disable the AUTO TILT AWAY function by changing the customize parameter (See CUSTOMIZE PARAMETERS  ).
      NOTE: Record the current customize parameter setting (whether the AUTO TILT AWAY function is enabled or disabled) in order to restore the current setting after finishing the operation.

      HINT:

      Performing the above operation causes the AUTO TILT AWAY function to be disabled when the engine switch is turned off.

    2. Turn the engine switch on (IG). Operate the tilt and telescopic switch to fully extend and lower the steering column assembly.
    3. Turn the engine switch off and disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal.
      NOTE: Wait at least 90 seconds after disconnecting the cable from the negative (-) battery terminal to prevent airbag and seat belt pretensioner activation.
  5. REMOVE FRONT DOOR SCUFF PLATE LH  (See REMOVAL )
  6. REMOVE FRONT DOOR OPENING TRIM COVER LH  (See REMOVAL )
  7. REMOVE SIDE INSTRUMENT PANEL LH  (See REMOVAL )
  8. REMOVE INSTRUMENT PANEL FINISH PANEL END LH  (See REMOVAL )
  9. REMOVE LOWER INSTRUMENT PANEL SUB-ASSEMBLY  (See REMOVAL )
  10. REMOVE DRIVER SIDE KNEE AIRBAG ASSEMBLY  (See REMOVAL )
  11. REMOVE NO. 2 LOWER STEERING WHEEL COVER  (See REMOVAL )
  12. REMOVE NO. 3 LOWER STEERING WHEEL COVER  (See REMOVAL )
  13. REMOVE STEERING PAD  (See REMOVAL )
  14. REMOVE STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY 
    1. Remove the steering wheel assembly set nut.
    2. Put matchmarks on the steering wheel assembly and main shaft assembly.
    3. Using SST, remove the steering wheel assembly.

      SST 09950-50013 (09951-05010, 09952-05010, 09953-05020, 09954-05011) 

      Fig 1: Removing Steering Wheel Assembly
      G05250835Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  15. REMOVE STEERING COLUMN COVER 
    1. Remove the 2 screws.
    2. Disengage the 2 claws to remove the lower steering column cover.
      NOTE: Do not damage the tilt and telescopic switch.
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

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.