Steering Wheel and Column
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The steering wheel and column are designed to absorb energy when driver contact is made with the steering wheel or inflated air bag. In a frontal collision the driver may contact the steering wheel directly or load the steering wheel and column through the inflated air bag. When the driver applies load to the air bag or steering wheel the column will compress downward absorbing some of the impact, helping to reduce bodily injuries to the driver. The steering wheel and column must be inspected for damage after a collision.