Tilt Steering Column Sticking in Position and Unable to Release (Replace Tilt Up-Stop Bumper or Internal Tilt Lever)

This bulletin is being revised to update Correction information and add part for 1999 Buick Century and Regal. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 02-02-35-002A (Section 02 -- Steering).

This bulletin provides information on two different conditions.

Some customers may comment that the tilt steering column is sticking in the extreme up position. To unlock the tilt from this position, grasp the steering wheel and apply pressure toward the front of the vehicle and then pull on the tilt lever knob.

The cause of this condition may be the up-stop bumper material being too soft and collapsing.

Replace the tilt up-stop bumper with P/N 26101021. This new bumper is made of a stronger material for enhanced durability. Use the following procedure:

1. Remove the upper and lower steering column trim covers. Refer to the Steering Column Trim Covers -- Disassemble procedure in the Steering Wheel and Column sub-section of the Service Manual.
2. Tilt the steering column to the down position.
3. Remove the tilt up-stop bumper.
4. Install the new tilt up-stop bumper.
5. Install the upper and lower steering column trim covers. Refer to the Steering Column Trim Covers -- Assemble procedure in the Steering Wheel and Column sub-section of the Service Manual.

Some customers may comment that the tilt steering column is sticking in the No. 4 position (two down from full up). To unlock the tilt from this position, grasp the steering wheel and push the tilt lever knob forward and then down.

The cause of this condition may be the internal tilt lever.

Replace the internal tilt lever with P/N 26090202. This new lever has an added release spring to correct this condition. Use the following procedure:

Important: For 1999 model years, the steering column tilt knob must also be replaced. Current metal tilt knob will not install into the new internal lever. Use P/N 26069841.

1. Remove the upper and lower steering column trim covers. Refer to the Steering Column Trim Covers -- Disassemble procedure in the Steering Wheel and Column sub-section of the Service Manual.
2. Remove the tilt spring. Refer to the Tilt Spring -- Disassemble procedure in the Steering Wheel and Column sub-section of the Service Manual.
3. Remove the tilt lever screw and tilt lever.
4. Install the new tilt lever and screw.

Tighten
Tighten the tilt lever screw to 1.2 N·m(10 lb in).

5. Install the tilt spring. Refer to the Tilt Spring -- Assemble procedure in the Steering Wheel and Column sub-section of the Service Manual.
6. Install the upper and lower steering column trim covers. Refer to the Steering Column Trim Covers -- Assemble procedure in the Steering Wheel and Column sub-section of the Service Manual.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: