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
The steering column consists of the following:
- Steering wheel
- Steering column
- Upper and lower steering column shafts
- Steering column switches
The steering column is the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the steering gear. The steering wheel is mounted to a shaft, which passes through the center of the steering column. The shaft is centered by bearings within the steering column. The steering column shaft then connects the steering column to the steering gear. The upper and lower steering column shaft connections utilize U-joint type couplings. The tilt function of the steering column is controlled by a mechanical lever on the underside of the steering column, which uses a cam to lock and unlock the steering column. When the tilt column lever is unlocked, the steering column can then be adjusted to various positions. The steering column switches (multifunction and ignition) are mounted to the steering column. These switches are covered by the upper and lower steering column shrouds.
Vehicles that are equipped with Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) do not have a steering column locking function that prevents the steering wheel/column from rotating. Steering columns that are not equipped with PATS can be locked by placing the ignition key in the OFF position and removing the key.
For steering column switch service information, refer to STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES article.
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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.