Steering Column - Metallic Noises When Adjusting

Retailer Technical Journal 21341 Tilt steering column,
Metallic noise when adjusted downwards

Date 08-31-2009

Reference: VSTG

Note!
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AFFECTED VEHICLES:

DESCRIPTION:
When diagnosing a metallic noise when tilting the steering wheel to the bottom position, attention should be paid to the position of the spring near the adjustment. The customer may also feel a slight stop before reaching the bottom position.





The root cause has been found to be conflict between the spring and the bracket.





See the photos below for OK and Not OK (NOK) positions of the spring before beginning any repairs.

SERVICE:





1. Removing the steering column covers.

Unclip the modesty panel with a weather strip tool (a) and lift up the modesty panel (b).

Remove the top steering column cover by lifting at the rear first and then unhooking the front (c).

Unlock the adjustment lever. Pull the steering wheel rearwards. Remove the three Torx 25 screws from the bottom and remove the lower steering column cover (d).





2. Unhook the end of the spring from the bracket.

Pull it down and to the side.

CAUTION:
Keep fingers from getting caught between the spring and the bracket.





3. Unhook the spring from its resting plate on the column.

Pull it up and to the side.





4. Release the spring from its attaching point. Push it forward.





5. Put the spring in a vice with 25-30 mm (1 - 1 ~ of the spring above the vise jaws.

Use aluminum protectors or thick foam to protect the spring from marks from the vice jaws.

Do not bend or alter the shape in the red marked area. There is a bend manufactured into the spring (marked in dashed yellow) that must not be altered.





6. Note! If the end of the spring is pointed away from you, the bend will be done to the right.

Use a rubber hammer to bend the spring on the end of the spring that is above the vise jaws. Bend the spring approximately 4 degrees or 2 - 3 mm (.08" - .12").

Do not bend it too much since it will need to move freely in the bracket once reinstalled.





7. Reinstall the spring in reverse order.

After reassembly, make sure that it is attached correctly on the resting plate and the attachment point.

Move the column up and down to make sure that the conflict is gone and that the spring rests correctly in the bracket.





Warranty Claim Information