Tilt Steering Column: Disassembly

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Disassembly
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Toyota Avalon. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: When using a vise, do not overtighten it.
  1. W/Engine immobilizer system, remove transponder key coil
  2. Remove the screw and key cylinder lamp assembly.
  3. Column shift, Disconnect the 3 connectors and remove the shift lock control ECU.
  4. Remove column upper bracket:
    1. Using a centering punch, mark the center of the 2 tapered-head bolts.
    2. Using a 3-4 mm (0.12-0.16 in.) drill, drill into the 2 bolts.
    3. Using a screw extractor, remove the 2 bolts and column upper bracket.
      Fig 1: Identifying Screw Extractor
      G01102358Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  5. Column shift, remove shift lever housing:
    1. Remove the Torx screw and shift lock switch.
      Fig 2: Locating Shift Lock Switch & Solenoid Bracket Torx Screws
      G01102359Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    2. Remove the 2 Torx screws and shift lock solenoid bracket.
    3. Remove the Torx screw and shift lever.
    4. Remove the 3 Torx screws and shift lever housing.
  6. Remove turn signal bracket:
    1. Remove the tension spring.
    2. Remove the 2 Torx screws and turn signal bracket.
      Fig 3: Locating Turn Signal Bracket Torx Screws
      G01102360Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  7. Remove steering column upper tube with main shaft assembly:
    1. Set SST, plate washer (18 and 36 mm outer diameter) and screw (4.0 mm diameter, 0.7 mm pitch, 15.0 mm length), as shown in Fig 4. And then remove the 2 No. 2 tilt steering bolts.
      Fig 4: Identifying Plate Washers A, B & Removing No. 2 Tilt Steering bolts
      G01102361Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

      SST 09910-00015 (09911-00011, 09912-00010)

      Reference: Plate washer A (18 mm): 90562-04012, Plate washer B (36 mm): 90201-10201, Screw: 90154-40015.

    2. CAUTION: Do not bend the universal joint of the main shaft assembly more than 20°.
    3. Remove the column upper tube with the main shaft assembly from the column tube assembly.
    4. Remove tilt spring and spring guide.
  8. Remove main shaft assembly  :
    1. Install SST to the main shaft assembly, as shown in Fig 5. SST 09612-07010.
    2. CAUTION: Do not bend the universal joint of the main shaft assembly more than 20°.

      Hold the main shaft assembly with your hand so that it does not rotate.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

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

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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.