This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the upper steering shaft on a 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L, which connects the steering wheel to the lower intermediate shaft.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering shaft pinch bolt (if reusable bolt not permitted) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground with wheels pointing straight ahead.
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes for SRS system discharge.
3. Turn steering wheel to center position and verify wheels are straight.
4. Chock rear wheels for safety.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Lower Steering Column Covers
   Remove the screws securing the lower steering column covers. Typically there are screws on the underside and sides. Carefully separate the upper and lower column covers and set aside.
   Torque spec

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

   Mark Steering Shaft Alignment
   Using white paint or a marker, make alignment marks across the upper steering shaft and lower intermediate shaft where they connect. Also mark the relationship between the upper shaft and steering column bracket. These marks are critical for maintaining proper steering wheel alignment during reassembly.
3. 3

   Disconnect Electrical Connections
   Locate and disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the steering column, including clockspring connector, ignition switch, and any multifunction switch connectors that may interfere with shaft removal. Press the release tabs and carefully pull connectors apart.
4. 4

   Remove Upper Shaft Pinch Bolt
   Locate the pinch bolt that connects the upper steering shaft to the lower intermediate shaft at the firewall area. This bolt clamps the two shafts together. Using a 13mm or 14mm socket (verify size), remove the pinch bolt completely. Note the orientation of the bolt for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove Steering Column Mounting Bolts
   Locate the mounting bolts that secure the steering column assembly to the instrument panel support bracket. There are typically 2-4 bolts. Remove these bolts while supporting the steering column to prevent it from dropping.
   Torque spec

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

   Lower and Separate Steering Column
   Carefully lower the steering column assembly to create clearance. Gently pull the upper steering shaft away from the lower intermediate shaft splines. The shaft should slide apart once the pinch bolt is removed. If stuck, gently twist while pulling - do not use excessive force.
7. 7

   Remove Upper Steering Shaft
   Once separated from the lower shaft, carefully maneuver the steering column to access the upper shaft attachment point at the steering wheel end. If the shaft is integrated with the column, the entire assembly may need to be removed from the vehicle. Extract the upper steering shaft from the vehicle.
8. 8

   Install New Upper Steering Shaft
   Position the new upper steering shaft into the steering column assembly. Ensure it is fully seated and oriented correctly. If the shaft has a specific clocking or orientation, verify it matches your alignment marks and the vehicle's configuration.
9. 9

   Reinstall Steering Column
   Raise the steering column back into position, carefully aligning the upper shaft with the lower intermediate shaft splines. Use your alignment marks to ensure proper orientation. Install the steering column mounting bolts finger-tight initially.
   Torque spec

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

    Align and Connect Steering Shafts
    Verify that your alignment marks on the upper and lower shafts are properly aligned. The splines should engage smoothly. Once aligned, install the pinch bolt through the coupling. Ensure the bolt passes through the shaft notch or flat. Tighten the pinch bolt to specification following Kia's recommended torque value (typically 20-26 Nm, though verify with service manual if available).
11. 11

    Torque All Fasteners
    Torque the steering column mounting bolts to 26.0 Nm (19.0 lb-ft). Verify the pinch bolt is properly torqued. Double-check that all connections are secure and alignment marks remain matched.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect Electrical Connections
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the steering column in reverse order of removal. Ensure each connector clicks securely into place. Verify the clockspring connector is properly seated as this is critical for airbag function.
13. 13

    Reinstall Column Covers
    Position the upper and lower steering column covers back onto the column. Align the cover halves and install all screws. Tighten the cover screws to 10.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft).
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Verify steering wheel is still centered with wheels pointing straight ahead.
3. Check that all electrical functions on the steering column operate correctly (turn signals, wipers, horn, cruise control).
4. Ensure no new rattles or noises from the steering column area.

Verification

• Start the engine and verify no SRS (airbag) warning lights remain illuminated on the dashboard.
• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary to 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 to confirm proper steering operation and alignment.
• Recheck all fasteners after test drive to ensure nothing has loosened.

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