Steering Column Accident Damage Inspection: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

This vehicle is equipped with electric power steering (EPS), with the electric motor and torque sensor mounted on the steering column. When involved in an accident resulting in sheet metal damage or driver-side air bag deployment, the steering column must be inspected for both electrical system integrity and steering column collapse. Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Power Steering System in Power Steering System.

If the steering column electrical system integrity is not within specifications, the complete steering column must be replaced. Refer to Steering Column Replacement
If the steering column collapse mechanism is not within specifications, but the electrical system integrity is within specifications, then the steering column upper jacket must be replaced. Refer to Steering Column Jacket Replacement .

Road test the vehicle when ever any steering system repairs or diagnostics have been performed.