Steering Wheel And Steering Column: Inspection: Notes

When steering wheel does not turn smoothly, check the steering column as follows and replace damaged parts.
1. Check column bearings for damage and unevenness. Lubricate with recommended multi-purpose grease or replace steering column as an assembly, if necessary.
2. Check steering column lower shaft for deformation and breakage. Replace if necessary.
When the vehicle comes into a light collision, check length "L₁ ", "L₂ " and "L₃ ".
1. Steering column length "L ₁ ":
  1. 716.7 - 718.7 mm (28.22 - 28.30 in)
2. Steering column lower shaft length "L ₂ ":
  1. 178 - 180 mm (7.01 - 7.09 in)
3. Steering column upper joint length "L ₃ ":
  1. 430.7 - 432.7 mm (16.96 - 17.04 in)
If out of the specifications, replace steering column upper joint or steering column as an assembly.

Fig 1: Inspecting Steering Column Length
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Fig 2: Inspecting Steering Column Upper Joint Length
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.