Steering Column: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Before beginning any service procedure, refer to SAFETY WARNINGS . Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

All Vehicles

Remove the steering column shrouds. Refer to STEERING COLUMN SHROUD .
Remove the steering wheel. Refer to STEERING WHEEL .
Remove the 4 screws and the steering column cover.
Vehicle with Column Shift
Disconnect the selector lever harness electrical connector.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the selector lever mechanism electrical connector.

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Disconnect the selector lever cable from the selector lever mechanism.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Release the selector lever cable from the mounting bracket and position aside.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

All Vehicles
Disconnect the electrical connectors, detach the wiring harness retainers and position the wiring harness aside.
NOTE: The collapsible steering column module electrical connector locking tabs are not clearly visible. Using an inspection mirror may help in viewing the electrical connector locking tabs clearly.

Using needlenose pliers, or an equivalent tool, depress the collapsible steering column module electrical connector locking tabs and disconnect the electrical connector.

Fig 1: Pressing Collapsible Steering Column Module Electrical Connector Locking Tabs
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the steering column shaft-to-steering column bolt and disconnect the steering column shaft from the steering column.
Remove the 4 steering column bolts and the steering column.