Steering Gear to Column Intermediate Shaft Inspection

The steering column to steering gear intermediate shaft has an integrated lower coupler and the assembly MUST be replaced whenever any of the following conditions exist.
1. Whenever a vehicle is involved in a collision which deploys the air bag, regardless of the extent of damage done to the vehicle.
2. If a vehicle is involved in an impact of the vehicles front suspension or under carriage, which results in any type of damage to the front crossmember.
3. Under any conditions which result in the steering column assembly or steering column shaft receiving a force great enough to move the steering column or shaft forward of rearward in a vehicle.