Removal & Installation: CLOCKSPRING: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Before proceeding, see AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Place front wheels in straight-ahead position. Remove steering wheel. See STEERING WHEEL .
- Apply 2 strips of tape across clockspring to prevent accidental rotation. See Figure . Remove 2 screws and pull out on lower steering column opening finish panel enough to access electrical connector. Disconnect electrical connectors and remove lower steering column opening finish panel.
- Remove 2 screws and lower steering column shroud. Pull out and remove ignition switch finish panel. Pull out on headlight switch finish panel, disconnect electrical connector and remove panel. Remove 2 screws and remove hood release assembly from steering column opening reinforcement. Remove screw and heater duct.
- Pull back carpet and loosen 2 driver-side instrument panel tunnel brace bolts. Remove 4 screws and steering column opening reinforcement. Remove 2 forward steering column mounting nuts. See Figure . Loosen, but DO NOT remove, 2 rear steering column mounting nuts, lowering steering column. Remove 4 screws and pull instrument cluster finish panel away from instrument cluster.
- Push in on automatic temperature control sensor assembly retaining tabs and remove sensor. Remove instrument cluster finish panel. Remove upper steering column shroud. Disconnect hands-free microphone, if equipped. Disconnect steering column position sensor. Disconnect 3 electrical connectors, release 4 retaining clips and remove clockspring electrical connector.
- Release 3 clips and remove clockspring with combination switch. Cut cable tie and disconnect electrical connector from combination switch. Release 3 retaining tabs and separate clockspring from combination switch.