Steering Column and Wheel
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The steering wheel and columns 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 come in contact with 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 the 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 damages after a collision.