Steering Column: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Focus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disable the supplemental restraint system (SRS). For additional information, refer to AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS .

NOTE: Make sure the road wheels are in the straight-ahead position.

Fig 1: Centralizing Steering

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Centralize the steering and lock it in position.
Detach the instrument panel lower panel from the instrument panel.
1. Remove the screws.
2. Release the fastener.
Fig 2: Detaching Instrument Panel Lower Panel From Instrument Panel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Detach the hood release cable and the data link connector (DLC) from the instrument panel lower panel.
- Remove the instrument panel lower panel.
Fig 3: Detaching Hood Release Cable & DLC From Instrument Panel Lower Panel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the steering column upper shroud.
- Using a thin bladed screwdriver, releases the two clips (one each side).
Fig 4: Removing Steering Column Upper Shroud
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the audio control switch (if equipped).
1. Using a thin bladed screwdriver, release the locking tang.
2. Disconnect the audio control switch electrical connector.
Fig 5: Removing Audio Control Switch
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the steering column lower shroud.
1. Release the steering column locking lever (if equipped).
2. Remove the screws.
Fig 6: Removing Steering Column Lower Shroud
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the passive anti-theft system (PATS) transceiver, wiper/washer switch and clockspring/steering wheel rotation sensor/speed control electrical connectors.

Fig 7: Disconnecting PATS Transceiver And Wiper/Washer Switch
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the ignition switch and turn signal/flash-to-pass switch electrical connectors.

Fig 8: Disconnecting Ignition Switch And Turn Signal/Flash-To-Pass Switch Electrical Connectors
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Detach the wiring harness from the steering column.
1. Release the locating pin.
2. Detach the wiring harness from the column.
Fig 9: Detaching Wiring Harness From Steering Column
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the steering column shaft from the steering gear pinion extension.
1. Remove the bolt.
2. Release the pinion shaft extension from the steering column.
Fig 10: Disconnecting Steering Column Shaft From Steering Gear Pinion Extension
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the steering column.
- Remove the three nyloc nuts.
- Remove the Torx bolts.
Fig 11: Removing Steering Column
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.