2021 Subaru Outback BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Steering Column: Removal

CAUTION: Before handling the airbag system components, always refer to "CAUTION" of "General Description" in "AIRBAG SYSTEM". Ref. to AIRBAG SYSTEM>GENERAL DESCRIPTION>CAUTION .
  1. Adjust the tilt position of the steering column to the neutral position and the telescopic position to the longest position.
    NOTE: Place the tilt lever to the lock position after the steering column is adjusted.
  2. Disconnect the ground terminal from the battery sensor, and wait for at least 60 seconds before starting work. Ref. to REPAIR CONTENTS>NOTE>BATTERY .
  3. Remove the cover LWR driver and the cover steering LWR. Ref. to EXTERIOR/INTERIOR TRIM>INSTRUMENT PANEL LOWER COVER>REMOVAL .
  4. Remove the knee airbag module. Ref. to AIRBAG SYSTEM>KNEE AIRBAG MODULE>REMOVAL
  5. Remove the driver's airbag module. Ref. to AIRBAG SYSTEM>DRIVER'S AIRBAG MODULE>REMOVAL
  6. Remove the steering wheel. Ref. to POWER ASSISTED SYSTEM (POWER STEERING)>STEERING WHEEL>REMOVAL 
  7. Remove the column cover assembly.
    1. Release the clips and claws, and remove the cover steering UPR.
    2. Remove the screws.
      G13951525Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    3. Release the claw and the positioning pin, and remove the column cover LWR as shown in the figure.
      NOTE: Release the claws on RH side in the same procedure as on the LH side.
      G13951526Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    4. Release the claw, and remove the column cover UPR as shown in the figure.
    G13951527Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Remove the switch assembly combination.
    1. Disconnect the connector.
    2. Using pliers, loosen the clamp.
    3. With the clamp loosened, release the claw using a flat tip screwdriver wrapped with protective tape, and remove the switch assembly combination.
    CAUTION: Do not pry off forcibly. Otherwise, the claws may be damaged.
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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.