- Install a scan tool.
- Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
- Center the steering wheel.
- With the scan tool, observe the Steering Shaft Torque data parameter in the Power Steering System data displays list.
- Remove the coil, if necessary. Refer to Steering Wheel Inflatable Restraint Module Coil Replacement.
- Visually inspect steering shaft for sheared injected plastic. If steering shaft shows sheared plastic, a new steering column must be installed.
- If you need to replace the steering column, refer to Steering Column Replacement.
Caution: Once the steering column is removed from the vehicle, the column is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping the column assembly on the end could collapse the steering shaft or loosen the plastic injections, which maintain column rigidity. Leaning on the column assembly could cause the jacket to bend or deform. Any of the above damage could impair the columns collapsible design. Do NOT hammer on the end of the shaft, because hammering could loosen the plastic injections, which maintain column rigidity. If you need to remove the steering wheel, refer to the Steering Wheel Replacement procedure in this section.
Note: After centering the steering wheel, remove hands and other objects from the steering wheel and ensure the suspension is relaxed and that no bias, or uneven force is being applied to the steering system.
Valid range is - 1 N·m to + 1 N·m (- 0.7 lb ft to + 0.7 lb ft).
Does the scan tool indicate that the steering shaft torque data parameter is greater than the specified value listed above?
Replace the steering column assembly. Refer to Steering Column Replacement.
Note: In the event of a deployment, inspect the coil wire for any of the following signs of damage due to excessive heat:
Do NOT bend the energy absorbing straps on the upper mounting bracket.| • | Scorching |
| • | Melting |
| • | Other damage |
Caution: Vehicles involved in accidents that result in any of the following kinds of damage or situations, may also have a damaged or misaligned steering column:
• Frame damage • Major body damage • Sheet metal damage • If the steering column has been impacted • If the supplemental inflatable restraints system was deployed
