Removal (Tempo & Topaz)
- On vehicles with air bag, ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position. Turn lock cylinder to LOCK position and rotate steering wheel counterclockwise approximately 16 degrees until locked. Disable air bag system. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
- On all models, disconnect battery ground cable. Remove column cover at knee level of instrument panel. Remove cruise control module (if equipped) from instrument panel reinforcement. Remove lower shroud. See Figure and Figure .
- Loosen steering column mounting nuts enough to allow removal of upper shroud. Remove upper shroud. Disconnect all steering column electrical connectors. On vehicles with console shift, remove interlock cable from column.
- Remove bolt from steering shaft-to-intermediate shaft connecting clamp. Loosen connecting clamp.
- Remove steering column mounting nuts. Inspect mounting bracket clips. Replace, if damaged. Steering column will not function properly if clips are not installed.
- Pry open slot in steering shaft near connecting clamp. DO NOT use excessive force. Disengage steering shaft from intermediate shaft. Remove steering column.