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.
Adaptive Steering Column, Function
| Number | Designation | Number | Designation |
| 1 | Fixed bracket | 6 | Tear plate |
| 2 | Running bracket | 7 | Pin (USA/CDN only) |
| 3 | Upper steering section | 8 | Explosive charge (USA/CDN only) |
| 4 | Adjuster lever | 9 | Steering column lock |
| 5 | Steering shaft |
Deformation in the event of a collision
An impact of approximately 2 kN is required for the steering column to start to deform. Deformation takes place in three stages:
- The upper steering section (3) is pushed into the running bracket (2) equivalent to the remaining potential adjustment in the adjustment mechanism (4).
- The tear plate (6) deforms. The running bracket (2) is pushed into the fixed bracket (1). The groove for the running bracket controls the length of deformation.
- The steering shaft (5) with its telescopic design slides together.
The maximum movement (deformation) of the steering column is approximately 95 mm.
The adaptive steering column allows a relatively gentle deformation process in the event of a collision (only applies to drivers wearing seat belts, USA/CDN).
Collision process (applies to USA/CDN)
Driver not wearing seat belt:
The pin (7) is engaged. This results in the tear plate using its entire structure to absorb energy. The deformation takes place stiffly and slowly.
Driver wearing seat belt:
The explosive charge (8) is activated and pushes the pin (7) down out of the tear plate (6). The tear plate is weakened and the kinetic energy of the collision is transferred on in the system. This produces a relatively soft deformation process. The collision protection system only works if the driver is wearing a seat belt and the airbag deploys.
Collision process (does not apply to USA/CDN)
The steering column does not have an explosive charge. The pin (7) is therefore always engaged. This means that the tear plate (6) uses its entire structure to absorb energy, irrespective of whether or not the driver is wearing a seat belt. The deformation takes place stiffly and slowly.
Electrical steering lock with mechanical locking function
The steering lock (9) is secured in the steering column with two security bolts.
The mechanical locking function for the locking mechanism consists of:
- a lug on the steering wheel lock
- a pipe and catch on the steering column
- a pin for locking the lug.
The lug is pushed into the tube with the catch, locking the steering wheel. In the event of damage to the steering lock cover, the pin blocks the lug in the locked position.
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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.