Checking Steering Column for Accident Damage

NOTE: Vehicles involved in accidents resulting in body damage, where steering column has been impacted or air bag deployed may have a damaged or misaligned steering column.

Check that two capsules (1) are attached to steering column bracket securely. If found loose, replace steering column assembly.

Fig 1: Locating Two Capsules
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Take measurement "a", "b" and "c" as shown.
If it is shorter than specified length, replace steering column assembly or steering lower shaft with new one.

Steering column length

"a": 397 ± 2 mm (15.6 ± 0.08 in.)

"b": 59.5 ± 2.1 mm (2.4 ± 0.08 in.)

Steering lower shaft length

"c": 347.7 ± 1 mm (13.7 ± 0.04 in.)
Check that there is no axial play "d" and no axially-vertical play "e" for steering column shaft.
If found defective, replace steering column assembly with new one.

Fig 2: Checking Steering Column Length
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Check steering shaft joints and shaft for any damages such as crack, breakage, malfunction or excessive play.
If anything is found faulty, replace as lower shaft assembly or steering column assembly.

Fig 3: Locating Steering Shaft Joints
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Check steering shaft for smooth rotation.
If found defective, replace as steering column assembly.
Check steering shaft and steering column for bend, cracks or deformation.
If found defective, replace.