Warning: All models are equipped with an air bag. Follow the precautions given in Chapter 12.
Removal
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable (chapter 5 paragraph 1).
Warning: As a precaution, wait at least 15 minutes in case of accidental airbag deployment. This time is necessary for the capacitor charge to dissipate.
2. Turn the steering wheel to the straight-ahead position.
Warning: Store the airbag in a safe place with the front side down.
3. Remove the ignition key. Then turn the steering wheel slightly to lock the steering wheel.
4. Remove the screws and the upper and lower steering column covers. When removing the lower cover, you will need to remove the rubber ring from the ignition switch/steering lock (see Fig. 28.4,a-d).
5. On models equipped with an immobilizer (anti-theft engine blocking system), remove the immobilizer receiver from the ignition switch. To do this, disconnect the connector and unscrew the screw (see Fig. 28.5, a, b).
6. Remove the lower trim piece from the driver's side dash panel (Chapter 11).
7. Unscrew the bolt of the clamp plate securing the steering shaft to the elastic coupling. Turn the clamp plate, separating the plate and the projection of the elastic coupling (see Fig. 28.7, a, b).
8. Release the wiring on the steering column from the connection and disconnect the electrical connectors (see Fig. 28.8, a-c).
9. Unscrew the nut and disconnect the lower column support.
10. On left-hand drive models, disconnect the airbag connector and release its wiring.
11. Remove the column mounting bolts. Then pull the column upwards to remove the locking tab from the crossmember bracket groove and remove the column from the vehicle (see Fig. 28.11,a,b).
Examination
12. After removing the steering column, check the cardan joints for wear and the upper and lower covers for damage or dents (see Fig. 28.12). The column is replaced as a set.
13. Check the column height adjustment lever mechanism for wear and damage (see Fig. 28.13).
14. With the steering lock open, turn the steering shaft and check the upper and lower bearings for smooth operation. The bearings can be replaced separately if necessary. Disassembling and assembling the column is a fairly simple operation.
Installation
15. Install the steering column onto the bracket so that the stopper fits into the groove.
16. Tighten the mounting bolts to the required torque (see Fig. 28.16).
17. Install the electrical connectors and secure the wiring with ties.
18. Install the steering shaft on the flexible coupling. Turn the clamp plate. Then insert the bolt and tighten it to the required torque.
19. Install the lower portion of the driver's side trim.
20. Install the upper and lower steering column covers.
21. Connect the negative battery cable.