Steering Column

Complete removal and replacement of the steering column assembly on a 2008 Dodge Viper, including driver airbag, steering wheel, column shrouds, electrical connections, and mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering column assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or remanufactured unit
• Steering column mounting bolts (if reusing is not recommended) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Zip ties or wire loom clips × 10 — Generic

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake. Ensure transmission is in Park (or first gear if manual).
2. Turn steering wheel to center position (straight ahead) and note or mark the position.
3. Turn ignition off and remove key.
4. Disconnect negative battery cable, then disconnect positive battery cable. Secure cables away from battery terminals.
5. Wait minimum 10 minutes for airbag system backup capacitors to fully discharge.
6. Confirm front wheels are pointing straight ahead.
7. Place towels or protective covers over lower dash and center console to prevent damage during column removal.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver airbag module
   Working from the rear of the steering wheel, locate the airbag module retaining fasteners (typically 2 Torx screws or spring clips accessible from holes in the back of the wheel). If Torx screws, remove them. If spring clip design, insert a small flat tool into the access holes to release the clips. Carefully pull the airbag module straight back toward you from the steering wheel. Disconnect the airbag electrical connector by pressing the locking tab and pulling straight out. Disconnect the horn wire connector if separate. Set airbag module face-up in a safe location away from the work area where it cannot be disturbed.
   ⚠️Always place removed airbag module face-UP on a clean, flat surface away from work area. Never place face-down. Never place objects on top of airbag module.
2. 2

   Mark steering wheel alignment and remove steering wheel
   Before removal, use a marker or tape to mark the relationship between the steering wheel and the steering shaft (mark both the wheel hub and the shaft so they can be aligned during reinstallation). Remove the steering wheel center retaining nut using the appropriate socket. The nut is typically large (17-19mm) and may require significant torque to loosen. Thread the nut back on 2-3 turns to protect the shaft threads. Using a proper steering wheel puller, apply pressure to remove the steering wheel from the shaft taper. Once the wheel breaks free, remove the puller and retaining nut completely. Pull the steering wheel straight off the shaft while feeding the clockspring connector through the wheel center opening. Set steering wheel aside.
   ⚠DO NOT strike the steering shaft or wheel with a hammer. DO NOT use excessive force that could damage the clockspring or shaft. Use only a proper steering wheel puller.
3. 3

   Secure clockspring position
   With the steering wheel removed, the airbag clockspring (spiral cable assembly) is now visible on the steering column. The clockspring MUST remain centered during this procedure. If your replacement column does not include a pre-centered clockspring, you will need to center it during installation. Verify the clockspring is currently in the centered position (there may be a locking pin or tape holding it, or a centering window showing alignment marks). If the clockspring rotates freely and you are reusing it, tape it securely in its current position with masking tape or insert the locking pin if available. Note the orientation and routing of all wiring from the clockspring.
   ⚠Do NOT rotate the clockspring while the steering wheel is removed. Rotation will cause misalignment and damage when steering wheel is reinstalled.
4. 4

   Remove steering column shrouds
   The steering column is covered by upper and lower plastic shroud halves. Locate the fasteners securing the lower shroud (typically 2-4 Torx screws on the underside, commonly T20 or T25 size). Remove these fasteners. The upper and lower shrouds may separate independently or may be joined at the front. Carefully separate the lower shroud from the column, working around any wiring or switch assemblies. Remove the upper shroud by lifting it up and over the column shaft and clockspring assembly. Set shrouds aside. Inspect for any additional fasteners or clips that may secure ignition lock cylinder trim or switch bezels and remove as needed.
5. 5

   Disconnect column electrical connectors
   Identify all electrical connectors on the steering column assembly. Typical connectors include: ignition switch, immobilizer/SKREEM antenna module (if equipped — verify against factory wiring diagram for this vehicle), turn signal/multifunction switch, wiper switch, clockspring (airbag) connector to vehicle harness, and any steering column position sensors. Carefully disconnect each connector by pressing or lifting the locking tab and pulling straight apart. Do not pull on wires. Note the position and routing of each connector for reinstallation. For the clockspring connector to the main harness, there may be a connector bracket or retaining clip that must be released first. Use a marker or take a photo to document connector positions if needed.
6. 6

   Disconnect shift interlock cable (if automatic transmission)
   This step does not apply. The 2008 Dodge Viper uses a Tremec T56 6-speed manual transmission and has no automatic shift interlock cable connected to the steering column. Proceed to the next step. Note the cable routing and orientation for reinstallation. Note: Note: The 2008 Dodge Viper is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission only. There is no automatic transmission or shift interlock cable on this vehicle. Skip this step.
7. 7

   Mark and disconnect intermediate shaft coupling
   Working in the footwell area, locate where the lower steering column shaft connects to the intermediate shaft (U-joint or flex coupling) that runs down to the steering gear. This connection is typically just below the firewall pass-through. Use a marker to clearly mark the alignment of the column shaft to the intermediate shaft coupling (mark both shafts and the coupling bolt orientation). Remove the intermediate shaft coupling pinch bolt (typically 13-15mm). The bolt passes through a clamp that holds both shafts. Once the bolt is removed, the coupling should slide apart or separate. You may need to gently pry or tap the coupling to break the shaft taper. DO NOT allow the intermediate shaft to rotate or drop once disconnected.
   ⚠️Maintain alignment marks at all times. The intermediate shaft MUST NOT rotate relative to the steering gear. If the shaft rotates, the vehicle steering will be off-center and the clockspring may be damaged. Support the intermediate shaft or tape it in position if needed.
8. 8

   Remove steering column mounting fasteners
   Locate the steering column mounting bracket bolts that secure the column to the dash support structure. There are typically 4 mounting points: 2 bolts or nuts at the upper bracket near the dash and 2 bolts at the lower mounting bracket. The fasteners are commonly 13mm bolts or nuts. Support the weight of the steering column with one hand or have an assistant hold it. Remove all 4 mounting fasteners. Note the position of any shims, spacers, or alignment tabs at the mounting points.
   ⚠The steering column is heavy and will drop once fasteners are removed. Support the column during fastener removal to prevent damage or injury.
9. 9

   Remove steering column from vehicle
   With all fasteners and connections removed, carefully maneuver the steering column assembly out of the vehicle. Guide the upper shaft and electrical connections through the dash opening while supporting the weight. The column may need to be angled or rotated to clear the dash structure, pedals, and center console area. Watch for any wiring or clips that may still be attached. Once clear, remove the column from the vehicle and place on a clean work surface. Inspect the intermediate shaft and steering gear input shaft area. Ensure the intermediate shaft has not rotated and remains in its marked position.
10. 10

    Transfer components to new column (if applicable)
    If you are installing a new or remanufactured column, you may need to transfer certain components from the old column: ignition lock cylinder (if keyed to your vehicle), SKIM module (paired to your vehicle), turn signal/multifunction switch (if not included with new column), wiper switch, and any column-mounted accessories. Ensure the new column's clockspring is properly centered (look for a centering pin, locking tab, or alignment marks in a window). If the clockspring is not centered, follow the manufacturer's centering procedure before installation. Compare the new column mounting points, shaft length, and connector types to the old column to confirm correct replacement.
11. 11

    Install new or replacement steering column
    Carefully guide the replacement steering column into the vehicle, reversing the removal path. Feed the clockspring connector and other wiring through the dash opening first. Position the column so the lower shaft aligns with the intermediate shaft coupling at the firewall. Support the column weight and align the mounting bracket holes with the dash support structure. Thread the 4 mounting fasteners by hand to hold the column in position but do not tighten yet. Verify all mounting points are correctly aligned and any shims or spacers are in their original positions.
12. 12

    Connect intermediate shaft coupling
    Align the lower column shaft with the intermediate shaft coupling using the alignment marks made during disassembly. The marks on both shafts and the coupling should line up exactly. Slide the coupling together ensuring the shaft engages fully into the coupling clamp. Install the pinch bolt through the coupling clamp and thread it by hand. Once the bolt is started, verify alignment marks are still matched. Tighten the pinch bolt to the factory-specified torque. This value must be verified against the 2008 Viper service manual before final tightening (do not rely on a generic estimate).
    ⚠️Verify alignment marks match exactly before tightening pinch bolt. Misalignment will cause steering problems and clockspring damage.
13. 13

    Tighten column mounting fasteners and reconnect electrical
    With the intermediate shaft connected, tighten the 4 steering column mounting fasteners to secure the column to the dash support. Tighten in a cross pattern (upper left, lower right, upper right, lower left) to ensure even mounting. Torque the column mounting fasteners to the factory-specified value, which must be verified against the 2008 Viper service manual before completing the installation. Reconnect all electrical connectors to the steering column in reverse order of removal: ignition switch, SKIM module, turn signal/multifunction switch, wiper switch, clockspring to vehicle harness. Ensure each connector locks fully with an audible click. Reconnect the shift interlock cable if equipped, ensuring the cable end is fully seated and retained.
14. 14

    Install column shrouds
    Position the upper steering column shroud over the column shaft and clockspring assembly, ensuring all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Install the lower shroud, aligning it with the upper shroud. Ensure any tabs or alignment features engage properly. Install the shroud retaining fasteners (typically 2-4 Torx screws on the underside) and tighten securely but do not overtighten plastic components. Reinstall any ignition lock cylinder trim rings or bezels that were removed.
15. 15

    Install steering wheel and airbag
    If you taped the clockspring to prevent rotation, remove the tape or locking pin now. Verify the clockspring is centered (alignment marks visible in window if equipped, or locking pin can be reinserted easily). Feed the clockspring connector through the steering wheel center opening. Align the steering wheel with the alignment marks made on the shaft during removal. The wheel should slide onto the shaft taper with the marks aligned and the front wheels still pointed straight ahead. Install the steering wheel retaining nut and tighten to the factory-specified torque, which must be verified against the 2008 Viper service manual before final assembly (steering wheel retention is safety-critical). Connect the horn wire connector if separate. Position the airbag module in front of the steering wheel, connect the airbag electrical connector ensuring it locks fully, then press the airbag module into the steering wheel until the retaining clips engage or install the retaining Torx screws and tighten securely.
    ⚠️Verify steering wheel is aligned exactly with marks and front wheels are straight ahead. Verify clockspring is centered before installing wheel. Misalignment will damage clockspring.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect positive battery cable, then reconnect negative battery cable.
2. Before starting vehicle, turn steering wheel slowly from lock to lock while sitting in driver's seat to verify smooth operation and no binding.
3. Start vehicle and verify airbag warning light performs normal self-test (illuminates briefly then extinguishes). If airbag light remains on, the clockspring may not be properly centered or a connector may not be fully seated.
4. Verify all steering column functions: turn signals, wipers, high beams, horn, ignition switch positions, and shift interlock (automatic transmission).
5. Test drive vehicle in a safe area to confirm steering operation is normal, centered, and responsive.

Verification

• Confirm steering wheel is centered when driving straight with no steering pull or off-center condition.
• Verify airbag warning light is off and remains off during operation.
• Verify all steering column-mounted controls function properly: turn signals, wipers, high beams, horn.
• Verify ignition switch operates smoothly through all positions and shift interlock prevents shifter movement when required (automatic transmission).
• Inspect intermediate shaft coupling for proper engagement and verify pinch bolt is tight.
• Verify no unusual noises, binding, or resistance when turning steering wheel through full range of motion.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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