Replace the steering intermediate shaft coupler between the steering column and rack to eliminate clunking or binding in the steering system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering intermediate shaft coupler assembly × 1 — 45260-02130 or aftermarket equivalent
• Intermediate shaft coupler bolts × 2 — Usually included with coupler assembly

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to center position with wheels straight ahead
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
4. Remove lower steering column cover by removing cover screws
5. Chock rear wheels securely

Procedure

1. 1

   Access steering coupler from cabin
   Remove the lower steering column cover screws and remove the cover to expose the upper portion of the steering coupler where it connects to the steering column shaft. You may need to remove the knee airbag panel for better access on some trim levels.
   Torque spec

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

   Mark alignment of upper coupler connection
   Using a paint marker, make alignment marks across the steering column shaft and the upper portion of the coupler. Mark the bolt position and spline alignment clearly. These marks are critical for proper reassembly to maintain steering wheel centering.
   ⚠Accurate alignment marks are essential. Misalignment will result in an off-center steering wheel after reassembly.
3. 3

   Raise and support vehicle
   Raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the plastic engine under cover to access the lower portion of the steering coupler where it connects to the steering rack input shaft.
   ⚠️Ensure vehicle is securely supported on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack.
4. 4

   Mark alignment of lower coupler connection
   From under the vehicle, locate the lower coupler connection to the steering rack pinion shaft. Use the paint marker to make clear alignment marks across the coupler and rack input shaft, marking both the spline orientation and bolt position. Apply penetrating oil to both upper and lower coupler bolts.
   ⚠The lower connection is difficult to see and access. Use a flashlight and ensure marks are clearly visible.
5. 5

   Remove lower coupler pinch bolt
   Working from under the vehicle, remove the lower pinch bolt securing the coupler to the steering rack input shaft. This typically requires a 14mm wrench and socket. The bolt orientation may require simultaneous access from both sides or use of a flex socket.
   ℹ️Access is very limited. You may need to work by feel and use a magnetic pickup tool to retrieve the bolt.
6. 6

   Remove upper coupler pinch bolt
   From inside the vehicle footwell, remove the upper pinch bolt securing the coupler to the steering column shaft. This typically requires a 12mm wrench and socket. Support the coupler as you remove the bolt to prevent it from dropping.
   ⚠Do not allow the steering wheel to rotate once the coupler is disconnected or the clockspring alignment will be lost.
7. 7

   Remove steering coupler
   Carefully slide the coupler off the steering column shaft and rack input shaft. You may need to work from both under the vehicle and inside the cabin simultaneously. The coupler typically slides downward and toward the firewall for removal. Note the orientation and any spacers or washers present.
   ℹ️If the coupler is seized on the splines, carefully use a small pry bar or tap gently with a plastic mallet. Do not damage the steering column or rack shafts.
8. 8

   Inspect steering shafts
   Inspect both the steering column shaft and rack input shaft for wear, corrosion, or damage to the splines. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush. Apply a thin coat of multi-purpose grease to the splines of both shafts before installing the new coupler.
   ⚠Do not rotate the steering wheel or rack input shaft. Keep both components in the marked positions.
9. 9

   Install new steering coupler
   Install the new coupler assembly by carefully aligning the splines with your previously made alignment marks. Slide the coupler onto the rack input shaft first, then engage the upper portion onto the steering column shaft. Ensure the coupler is fully seated on both shafts and alignment marks line up exactly.
   ⚠Verify alignment marks match exactly before installing bolts. The coupler can only be installed in one correct orientation for proper steering wheel centering.
10. 10

    Install upper pinch bolt
    Install the new upper pinch bolt through the coupler and steering column shaft. Ensure the bolt passes through the groove in the steering shaft. Torque to specification per the mounting bolt torque value.
    ⚠Ensure the pinch bolt passes through the shaft groove, not just against the flat of the shaft. Incorrect installation can cause the coupler to slip.
    Torque spec

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

    Install lower pinch bolt
    From under the vehicle, install the new lower pinch bolt through the coupler and rack input shaft. Verify the bolt passes through the groove in the rack shaft. Torque to specification per the mounting bolt torque value.
    ⚠Verify the bolt is properly seated in the shaft groove before tightening. Use a flashlight to confirm proper engagement.
    Torque spec

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

    Reinstall covers and lower vehicle
    Reinstall the lower steering column cover and secure with cover screws torqued to specification. Reinstall the engine under cover. Lower the vehicle from jack stands and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure both upper and lower pinch bolts are properly torqued and seated in shaft grooves
2. Verify all alignment marks line up correctly before final tightening
3. Double-check that no tools or parts were left in the footwell or under the vehicle

Verification

• With the engine off, turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock and verify smooth operation with no binding or clunking
• Verify the steering wheel is centered when the front wheels are pointing straight ahead
• Start the engine and verify no airbag warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard
• Perform a test drive at low speed in a safe area, checking for proper steering response, centering, and absence of clunking noises
• Verify full steering lock in both directions is available without binding

More procedures for this vehicle