This procedure covers removal and replacement of the steering shaft coupler (intermediate shaft coupling) on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with the 1.5L turbo engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering shaft coupler/intermediate shaft × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering coupler bolt(s) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to center position and verify wheels are pointed straight ahead
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait at least 3 minutes
4. Remove driver's side lower dashboard panel/knee bolster to access steering column area
5. Remove driver's side floor mat for better access

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the steering coupler area
   Remove the lower dashboard cover screws and carefully pull away the lower dash panel to expose the steering column and intermediate shaft. You may need to remove additional trim pieces depending on access. The coupler is located where the steering column shaft meets the intermediate shaft leading to the rack.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Mark alignment positions
   Using a marker or paint pen, make clear alignment marks across both sides of the steering coupler joint - marking the upper steering shaft, the coupler itself, and the lower intermediate shaft. These marks must align exactly during reassembly to maintain steering wheel position. Take a photo for reference.
   ⚠Accurate alignment marks are critical - misalignment will result in off-center steering wheel
3. 3

   Remove upper coupler bolt
   Locate the upper pinch bolt on the steering coupler that secures it to the steering column shaft. Remove this bolt completely. The bolt typically requires a socket with extension to reach. Note the bolt orientation for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Access lower coupler connection
   From underneath the vehicle, locate where the intermediate shaft connects to the steering rack pinion shaft. This may require removing an underbody shield or working through an access opening. Clean the area of any debris for better visibility.
5. 5

   Remove lower coupler bolt
   Remove the lower pinch bolt that secures the intermediate shaft to the steering rack pinion. Support the intermediate shaft as you remove the bolt to prevent it from dropping. Again note the bolt orientation.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Separate and remove the coupler assembly
   Carefully separate the coupler from both the upper steering shaft and lower pinion shaft. You may need to gently spread the pinch clamps with a flathead screwdriver while pulling the shaft away. Work the intermediate shaft assembly out through the firewall opening, being careful not to damage any surrounding components or wiring.
   ⚠Do not use excessive force - coupler should separate with moderate effort once pinch bolts are removed
7. 7

   Inspect components
   Inspect the steering column shaft and rack pinion shaft splines for wear, damage, or corrosion. Check that both shafts are clean and free of debris. If replacing only the coupler, ensure the new part matches the old part exactly in design and spline count.
8. 8

   Install new coupler assembly
   Position the new steering coupler assembly onto the lower rack pinion shaft first, aligning the splines and ensuring the pinch bolt hole lines up. Then carefully guide the upper end onto the steering column shaft, again aligning splines. Ensure your alignment marks (or original positions) are matched.
   ⚠Verify splines are fully engaged on both ends before installing bolts
9. 9

   Install and torque lower bolt
   Install the new lower pinch bolt in the same orientation as removed. Ensure the bolt passes through both the coupler and the slot in the pinion shaft. Torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install and torque upper bolt
    Install the new upper pinch bolt in the same orientation as removed, ensuring it passes through both the coupler and the slot in the steering column shaft. Torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Verify alignment and clearances
    Double-check that all alignment marks match and that the coupler has proper clearance from surrounding components throughout the full range of steering motion. Verify there is no binding or interference. Confirm the steering wheel is still centered with wheels straight ahead.
12. 12

    Reinstall interior components
    Reinstall the lower dashboard panel and any trim pieces removed for access. Ensure all clips and fasteners are properly seated. Torque any retaining screws to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery cable
2. Reinstall floor mat
3. If equipped, perform steering angle sensor calibration using a Honda diagnostic tool (HDS) as per manufacturer requirements

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify no warning lights related to steering or airbag systems are illuminated
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and verify smooth operation with no binding, clunking, or unusual noises
• Verify steering wheel is centered when wheels are pointed straight ahead
• Perform a slow-speed test drive in a safe area, checking for proper steering feel, response, and centering
• Verify no steering play or looseness is present
• Re-check all fastener torques after test drive

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