Replace the intermediate steering shaft that connects the steering column to the steering rack, eliminating play or binding in the steering system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Intermediate steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Upper pinch bolt (column side) × 1 — Reusable if not damaged
• Lower pinch bolt (rack side) × 1 — Reusable if not damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface with wheels pointed straight ahead
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
4. Lock the steering wheel in the centered position using a steering wheel holder or secure with seatbelt through wheel
5. Raise front of vehicle and support on jack stands (if accessing from below)
6. Mark the relationship between upper shaft and lower shaft with paint marker for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the intermediate steering shaft from above
   Remove the driver's side lower dashboard trim panel to access the upper steering column area. This typically involves removing plastic clips and screws. On some models, you may need to remove the knee airbag panel first.
2. 2

   Mark shaft alignment positions
   Before disassembly, use a white paint marker to mark the exact rotational alignment of the upper steering column shaft to the intermediate shaft, and the intermediate shaft to the lower steering rack input shaft. Make clear reference marks across both coupling points.
   ℹ️These alignment marks are critical for proper reassembly and preventing steering wheel off-center condition
3. 3

   Remove upper pinch bolt
   Locate the upper pinch bolt at the steering column shaft where it connects to the intermediate shaft. Apply penetrating oil if needed. Remove the 14mm pinch bolt and nut. Spread the coupling slightly with a flat-head screwdriver to release the clamp pressure on the shaft splines.
   ⚠Do not damage the rubber dust boot that seals this connection - it may need to be transferred to the new shaft
4. 4

   Access lower steering shaft connection
   From underneath the vehicle, locate where the intermediate shaft connects to the steering rack input shaft. This is accessed through the driver's side wheel well area or from directly underneath. Clean any dirt or debris around the connection.
5. 5

   Remove lower pinch bolt
   Remove the lower 14mm pinch bolt and nut that secures the intermediate shaft to the steering rack input shaft. Use penetrating oil if the bolt is corroded. Spread the coupling with a flat-head screwdriver to release clamp pressure.
   ⚠The intermediate shaft may drop slightly once both ends are disconnected - support it to prevent damage
6. 6

   Remove intermediate steering shaft
   Carefully slide the intermediate shaft off the upper column shaft splines, then separate it from the lower rack input shaft. Maneuver the shaft out through the firewall access area. Note the orientation and any spacers or insulators.
7. 7

   Inspect and prepare new shaft
   Compare the old intermediate shaft with the new one to ensure correct replacement. Transfer any rubber boots, dust covers, or insulators from the old shaft to the new one if they are not included. Inspect steering column and rack input shafts for damage or wear.
8. 8

   Install new intermediate shaft
   Position the new intermediate shaft and align it with the lower steering rack input shaft first. Slide onto the splines ensuring alignment marks match your reference marks. Then connect the upper end to the steering column shaft, again matching alignment marks.
   ⚠Ensure shaft collapses or extends to proper length and both ends seat fully on splines before installing pinch bolts
9. 9

   Install lower pinch bolt
   Install the lower pinch bolt and nut, ensuring the bolt passes through the clamp and the groove in the steering rack input shaft. Torque to specification using the Mounting Bolts torque value of 26.0 Nm (19.0 lb-ft).
   Torque spec

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

    Install upper pinch bolt
    Install the upper pinch bolt and nut at the steering column connection, ensuring the bolt passes through the clamp and the groove in the column shaft. Torque to specification using the Mounting Bolts torque value of 26.0 Nm (19.0 lb-ft).
    Torque spec

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

    Verify shaft operation
    Before reinstalling trim panels, remove the steering wheel lock and gently turn the steering wheel from lock to lock to verify smooth operation with no binding, clicking, or excessive play. Steering should move freely without resistance.
    ℹ️If any binding or unusual resistance is felt, recheck alignment and pinch bolt installation
12. 12

    Reinstall interior trim
    Reinstall the driver's side lower dashboard trim panels and any knee airbag panels removed during disassembly. Ensure all clips and fasteners are properly secured.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal
2. Start the engine and verify no warning lights related to steering or airbag systems
3. Test steering operation at idle with vehicle stationary to confirm smooth operation
4. Verify steering wheel is centered when wheels are pointed straight ahead

Verification

• Turn steering wheel lock to lock while stationary - should be smooth with no binding, clicking, or clunking sounds
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in safe area and verify steering response is normal with no play or looseness
• Check for any rubbing or interference between shaft and surrounding components throughout steering range
• Verify steering wheel returns to center properly after turns
• Confirm no airbag warning light is illuminated on instrument cluster

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