This procedure covers removal and replacement of the intermediate steering shaft coupler, which connects the steering column to the steering rack input shaft.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Intermediate steering shaft coupler assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering coupler bolt(s) × 2 — Use OEM specification - typically one-time-use fasteners

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine, center steering wheel perfectly straight, then turn ignition OFF
4. Lock steering wheel in centered position using steering wheel lock or by removing ignition key and turning wheel until lock engages
5. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
6. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands at frame rails
7. Remove front skid plate or splash shields if equipped to access steering components

Procedure

1. 1

   Access steering coupler from underneath
   Position yourself under the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate the intermediate steering shaft coupler where the steering column shaft meets the steering rack input shaft. This is typically accessed from the driver's side of the vehicle, above the front differential on RWD models. Clean area of dirt and debris.
2. 2

   Mark coupler alignment
   Before loosening anything, use a white paint marker to make alignment marks across the coupler and both shaft ends (column shaft and rack input shaft). Make clear, visible marks that span the joints so you can reference original positioning during reassembly. Take a photo for reference.
3. 3

   Apply penetrating oil to fasteners
   Spray penetrating oil on the coupler pinch bolt(s) and allow to soak for 5-10 minutes. The coupler typically uses one or two pinch bolts that clamp onto splined or D-shaped shafts. Check both upper and lower connections.
4. 4

   Remove upper coupler pinch bolt
   Locate the upper pinch bolt connecting the coupler to the steering column shaft. Support the coupler with one hand while removing the bolt with a socket wrench. Note the bolt orientation and any washers. The coupler may be spring-loaded or under slight tension.
5. 5

   Remove lower coupler pinch bolt
   Locate the lower pinch bolt connecting the coupler to the steering rack input shaft. Remove this bolt completely. On some models, this may be a through-bolt design that passes through both sides of the coupler clamp.
6. 6

   Separate and remove coupler
   With both pinch bolts removed, carefully collapse or separate the coupler if it has a telescoping design. Use a small pry bar if needed to spread the clamp jaws slightly. Slide the coupler off the steering column shaft first, then off the rack input shaft. The coupler may have splines or a D-shaped bore that needs to be aligned to slide off. Work carefully to avoid damaging the shaft splines or seals.
7. 7

   Inspect shafts and clean splines
   Inspect both the steering column shaft and rack input shaft for damage, wear, or corrosion on the splines or mating surfaces. Check for any looseness in the rack input shaft bearing. Clean the splines with a wire brush and wipe with a clean rag. Do not allow dirt to enter the steering rack housing.
8. 8

   Install new coupler onto rack input shaft
   Position the new steering coupler onto the steering rack input shaft first (lower connection). Align the splines or D-shaped bore carefully. The coupler should slide on smoothly without forcing. Position according to your alignment marks and ensure the clamp gap is positioned correctly for bolt installation.
9. 9

   Connect coupler to steering column shaft
   Carefully slide or telescope the upper portion of the coupler onto the steering column shaft, aligning the splines or D-shape. Reference your alignment marks to ensure proper clocking. The coupler should be fully seated on both shafts with proper engagement depth.
10. 10

    Install and torque lower pinch bolt
    Install the new lower pinch bolt (or reuse if specified by manufacturer) into the lower coupler clamp. Ensure the bolt passes through the clamp properly and engages any detent or flat on the rack input shaft. Torque to manufacturer specification. Note: Use the specific torque value provided in your service manual for steering coupler pinch bolts, as this is critical for safety.
11. 11

    Install and torque upper pinch bolt
    Install the upper pinch bolt into the upper coupler clamp, ensuring it engages properly with the steering column shaft detent or flat. Verify alignment marks are still correct. Torque to manufacturer specification using the same value as the lower bolt.
12. 12

    Verify coupler installation
    Double-check that both pinch bolts are fully tightened and properly torqued. Verify the coupler has no play or looseness by attempting to move it by hand (it should be completely solid). Confirm alignment marks are still matched and the coupler is not binding.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any skid plates or splash shields removed for access
2. Reconnect negative battery cable
3. Remove steering wheel lock or unlock steering wheel
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands to ground

Verification

• Start engine and verify no warning lights related to steering or airbag system appear
• With engine running, turn steering wheel slowly from lock to lock while stationary, listening for any unusual noises, binding, or clicking from the coupler area
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in a safe area, checking for proper steering response, no play in the steering wheel, and no vibration or noise during turns
• Verify steering wheel returns to center properly after turning
• Recheck pinch bolt torque after test drive to ensure no loosening has occurred

More procedures for this vehicle