Steering Shaft - Upper

This procedure replaces the upper steering shaft on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with the 1.5L turbocharged engine, addressing issues like clunking noises or difficulty steering.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering shaft bolt (may be reusable, inspect) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
2. Ensure front wheels are pointing straight ahead
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes
4. Remove driver's side lower dashboard panel to access steering column
5. Position yourself comfortably with access to both the interior steering column and under-hood firewall area

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark steering shaft alignment
   With wheels straight, use a paint pen or marker to mark the relationship between the upper and lower steering shafts at the coupler joint inside the cabin. Also mark the orientation of the steering wheel to the column. These marks are critical for proper reassembly and steering wheel centering.
2. 2

   Remove steering column covers
   Remove the upper and lower steering column trim covers by removing the cover screws. Set covers aside in a clean area. This provides access to the steering shaft coupler.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Access upper shaft coupler bolt
   Locate the pinch bolt or coupling bolt that connects the upper steering shaft to the lower shaft. This is typically located at the base of the steering column inside the cabin. Clean any debris from the bolt and surrounding area.
4. 4

   Remove coupler pinch bolt
   Remove the pinch bolt that secures the upper shaft to the lower shaft coupler. You may need to use a punch to drive out the roll pin if equipped, or simply remove the bolt. Apply penetrating oil if the bolt is corroded. Keep this hardware as it may be reused if not damaged.
   ⚠Do not pry or force the shafts apart with excessive pressure, as this can damage splines.
5. 5

   Access firewall connection
   Open the hood and locate where the upper steering shaft passes through the firewall. You may need to remove plastic covers or insulation to access the upper mounting point at the firewall.
6. 6

   Remove upper shaft mounting fasteners
   Remove the mounting bolts that secure the upper steering shaft bracket or support at the firewall. There are typically 2-3 bolts holding the shaft assembly to the firewall or steering column mounting point.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Separate and remove upper shaft
   Carefully slide the upper steering shaft out of the lower shaft coupler, pulling it toward the interior of the vehicle. Guide the shaft through the firewall opening. The shaft should slide out once all fasteners are removed. If stuck, tap gently with a rubber mallet while pulling.
8. 8

   Inspect and clean mating surfaces
   Inspect the lower shaft splines for wear, damage, or corrosion. Clean all mating surfaces with a wire brush. Check that the steering column support brackets are not cracked or damaged. Verify the new upper shaft matches the old shaft exactly.
9. 9

   Install new upper shaft
   Guide the new upper steering shaft through the firewall from the interior. Align the shaft with the lower shaft coupler, ensuring the splines are properly engaged and your alignment marks line up. Do not rotate the steering wheel or lower shaft during this process.
10. 10

    Secure upper shaft to firewall
    Install and torque the mounting bolts that secure the upper steering shaft bracket to the firewall. Ensure the shaft is properly seated before tightening.
    Torque spec

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

    Connect shaft coupler
    Verify alignment marks are properly matched. Install the pinch bolt through the coupler, ensuring it passes through both the upper and lower shaft. Torque to specification. If a roll pin is used, drive it in fully until flush.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Reinstall the upper and lower steering column trim covers and secure with cover screws. Ensure all tabs are properly engaged before tightening screws.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reinstall dashboard panel and reconnect battery
    Reinstall the lower dashboard panel. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The power steering system may need to initialize; this happens automatically when the ignition is turned on.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all alignment marks match properly to maintain steering wheel centering
2. Verify all fasteners are torqued to specification
3. Confirm steering column covers are securely reinstalled
4. After reconnecting battery, turn ignition on and verify the steering angle sensor initializes without fault codes

Verification

• Start the engine and verify no warning lights related to steering or power steering appear on the dashboard
• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and verify smooth operation with no binding, clicking, or unusual noises
• Verify steering wheel is centered when wheels are pointing straight ahead
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area, confirming proper steering response and no clunking noises during turns
• Check for any rubbing or interference between the steering shaft and surrounding components throughout the steering range

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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