GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Secure the steering wheel utilizing a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

       • The steering column
       • The intermediate shaft
       • The steering gear
    After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.

  1. Remove the driver knee bolster reinforcement. Refer to Driver Knee Bolster Reinforcement Replacement.
  2. Remove the steering column upper trim cover. Refer to Steering Column Upper Trim Cover Replacement.
  3. Disconnect any electrical connectors as needed.

  4. Object Number: 1868380  Size: SH
  5. If equipped with an electronic power steering column, remove the 3 electronic power steering motor control module bracket bolts (2) and the electronic power steering motor control module and bracket assembly (1).

  6. Object Number: 1865910  Size: SH

    Note: Place alignment marks on the steering shaft coupling and the steering column shaft prior to removal in order to mark the correct alignment of the pieces.

  7. Remove the steering shaft coupling bolt (1) at the steering column and discard it.
  8. An electronic power steering column is shown, a hydraulic power and two mode hybrid steering column is serviced the same way.

  9. Separate the steering shaft coupling from the steering column.

  10. Object Number: 1866096  Size: SH
  11. Remove the steering column lower support bracket bolt (1).
  12. An electronic power steering column is shown, a hydraulic power and two mode hybrid steering column is serviced the same way.


    Object Number: 1866094  Size: SH
  13. Remove the steering column upper support bracket bolts (1).
  14. An electronic power steering column is shown, a hydraulic power and two mode hybrid steering column is serviced the same way.

  15. Remove the steering column from the vehicle and transfer any parts as needed.

Installation Procedure

    Note: If replacing the steering column, failure to transfer the scribed marks may result in an off-center steering wheel.

  1. If a new steering column is being installed then transfer the pre-scribed alignment marks on to the new part.
  2. Position the steering column to the vehicle.
  3. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1866094  Size: SH

    Note: Hand tighten all steering column support bracket bolts before finalizing any torques.

  4. Install the steering column upper support bracket bolts (1) and tighten to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).
  5. An electronic power steering column is shown, a hydraulic power and two mode hybrid steering column is serviced the same way.


    Object Number: 1866096  Size: SH
  6. Install the steering column lower support bracket bolt (1) and tighten to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).
  7. An electronic power steering column is shown, a hydraulic power and two mode hybrid steering column is serviced the same way.

  8. Align the scribed marks on the steering shaft coupling to the scribed marks on the steering column shaft and connect them.

  9. Object Number: 1865910  Size: SH
  10. Install the new steering shaft coupling bolt (1) at the steering column and tighten to 34 N·m (25 lb ft).
  11. An electronic power steering column is shown, a hydraulic power and two mode hybrid steering column is serviced the same way.

  12. For vehicles with hydraulic power steering, install the new steering shaft coupling bolt at the steering column and tighten to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).
  13. For vehicles with two mode hybrid steering, install the new steering shaft coupling bolt at the steering column and tighten to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).

  14. Object Number: 1868380  Size: SH
  15. If equipped with an electronic power steering column, position the electronic power steering motor control module and bracket assembly (1).
  16. Install the 3 electronic power steering motor control module bracket bolts (2) and tighten to 11.5 N·m (102 lb in).
  17. Connect any electrical connectors as needed.
  18. Note: 

       • When installing a NEW service replacement electronic power steering column (non-two mode hybrid), the Saturn Service Stall (SSS) must be utilized to properly program the electronic power steering controller contained with the electronic power steering column.
       • Ensure the steering wheel alignment is in the 12 o'clock position.

  19. Refer to Control Module References for programming and setup information if equipped with electronic power steering.
  20. Install the steering column upper trim cover. Refer to Steering Column Upper Trim Cover Replacement.
  21. Install the driver knee bolster reinforcement. Refer to Driver Knee Bolster Reinforcement Replacement.