Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).
Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:
• Air bag deployment • Personal injury • Unnecessary SRS system repairs • Refer to SRS Component Views in order to determine if you are
performing service on or near the SRS components or the SRS wiring. • If you are performing service on or near the SRS components or
the SRS wiring, disable the SRS system. Refer to Disabling the SRS System
in SRS.
Notice: The wheels of the vehicle must be straight ahead and the steering column in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft from the steering gear. Failure to do so will cause the coil assembly in the steering column to become uncentered which will cause damage to the coil assembly.
Notice: The front wheels of the vehicle must be maintained in the straight ahead position and the steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft. Failure to follow these procedures will cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in damage to the SIR coil assembly.
Important: To ensure the energy-absorbing action of the steering column, it is important to use only the specified screws, bolts, and nuts, tightened to the specified torque.
In addition to the steering function, the steering column provides safety and security.
The energy-absorbing column is designed to compress in a front-end collision to lessen the chance of driver injury.
The ignition switch and the lock are mounted on the column, allowing the ignition and steering operations to be locked to inhibit theft of the car.
The column levers trigger the turn signals, the headlight beams, and the windshield washer and wipers.
A tilt steering column uses a spherical joint to allow the steering wheel to tilt up and down. This enables the driver to adjust the steering wheel to a comfortable position.
Important: Apply a thin coat of lithium grease to all friction points when reassembling.
The column may be disassembled and reassembled easily.
Ignition Key Reminder
The ignition key reminder alerts the driver that the key is still in the ignition when the driver attempts to exit the vehicle.
An internal switch in the ignition lock cylinder supplies battery voltage to the reminder chime module when all of the following conditions are true:
| • | The key is in the ignition switch. |
| • | The ignition is OFF. |
| • | The driver door is open. |
For information on removal and installation of the reminder chime module, refer to Chime Inoperative .
Tilt Steering Column
The tilt steering column is not unit repair serviceable. If the tilt steering column is defective, you must replace the tilt steering column assembly.
