Steering Column: Removal

CAUTION:

Before handling the airbag system components, always refer to "CAUTION" of "General Description" in "AIRBAG SYSTEM". Ref. to AIRBAG SYSTEM>General Description>CAUTION .
If the steering wheel and steering angle sensor are removed, perform "VSC(VDC) Centering Mode" of the VDC. Ref. to VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL (VDC)>VDC Control Module and Hydraulic Control Unit (VDCCM&H/U)>ADJUSTMENT>VDC SENSOR MIDPOINT SETTING MODE .

Disconnect the ground cable from battery and wait for at least 60 seconds before starting work.
Remove the driver's airbag module. Ref. to AIRBAG SYSTEM>Driver's Airbag Module>REMOVAL .
Remove the steering wheel. Ref. to POWER ASSISTED SYSTEM (POWER STEERING)>Steering Wheel>REMOVAL .
Remove the cover assembly - instrument panel LWR driver. Ref. to EXTERIOR/INTERIOR TRIM>Instrument Panel Lower Cover>REMOVAL .
Remove the knee airbag module. Ref. to AIRBAG SYSTEM>Knee Airbag Module>REMOVAL .
Remove the cover assembly - column.
1. Release the screws and claws.
2. Remove the cap - key cylinder (a). (Model with keyless access with push button start)
3. Remove the cover assembly - column UPR and the cover assembly - column LWR.
Fig 1: Removing Steering Column Cover Assembly
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the switch assembly - combination.
1. Disconnect the connector, and loosen the clamp to release the claws.
2. Pull out the switch assembly - combination from the column assembly - steering.
Fig 2: Removing Steering Column Switch Assembly
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove all connectors from the column assembly - steering.
Remove the universal joint assembly - steering. Ref. to POWER ASSISTED SYSTEM (POWER STEERING)>Universal Joint>REMOVAL .
Remove the two nuts under the beam COMPL - steering securing the column assembly - steering.

Fig 3: Locating Steering Beam COMPL Nuts
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Pull out the column assembly - steering from the hole on toe board.
CAUTION: Do not loosen the tilt lever when the column assembly - steering is not secured to the vehicle.
Remove the ignition key lock from the column assembly - steering. Ref. to SECURITY AND LOCKS>Ignition Key Lock>REPLACEMENT .