Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Cadillac ATS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

Refer to SIR Warning .

WARNING:

Refer to SIR Inflator Module Handling and Storage Warning .

Disable the SIR system. SIR Disabling and Enabling

Fig 1: Steering Column Upper Trim Cover

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Steering Column Upper Trim Cover Replacement - Remove

Fig 2: Steering Column Lower Trim Cover

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Steering Column Lower Trim Cover Replacement - Remove

Fig 3: Turn Signal Switch

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Turn Signal Switch Replacement - Remove

Fig 4: Windshield Wiper/Washer Switch

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Windshield Wiper and Washer Switch Replacement - Remove

Fig 5: Instrument Panel Knee Bolster Outer Deflector

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Driver Knee Bolster Reinforcement Replacement - Remove

CAUTION:

With wheels of the vehicle facing straight ahead, secure the steering wheel utilizing steering column anti-rotation pin, steering column lock, or a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

The steering column
The intermediate shaft(s)
The steering gear

After disconnecting these components, do not rotate the steering wheel or move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow this procedure may cause the SIR coil assembly to become un-centered and cause possible damage to the SIR coil. If you think the SIR coil has become un-centered, refer to your specific SIR coil's centering procedure to re-center SIR Coil.

If replacing the steering column, verify the front wheels are in the straight ahead position and LOCK the steering column using the lock pin from the NEW steering column.
If removing and reinstalling the steering column, verify the front wheels are in the straight ahead position and SECURE the steering column as best as possible to prevent any rotation of the steering column shaft and steering wheel.
Place match marks on the steering gear shaft and the intermediate steering shaft to aid in installation.

Fig 6: Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft Bolt

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft Bolt - Remove

NOTE:

The upper intermediate steering shaft will not disengage from the steering column entirely until the steering column is removed from the vehicle.
After separation, collapse the upper intermediate steering shaft as far as possible.

Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft @ Steering Column - Separate
Disconnect the steering column electrical connectors as necessary.

Fig 7: Steering Column Nuts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Steering Column Nut - Remove

CAUTION:

Once the steering column is removed from the vehicle, the column is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping the column assembly on the end could collapse the steering shaft or loosen the plastic injections, which maintain column rigidity. Leaning on the column assembly could cause the jacket to bend or deform. Any of the above damage could impair the columns collapsible design. Do NOT hammer on the end of the shaft, because hammering could loosen the plastic injections, which maintain column rigidity. If you need to remove the steering wheel, refer to the Steering Wheel Replacement procedure in this section.

Steering Column - Remove
If replacing the steering column, transfer components as necessary.
If replacing the steering column, copy the match marks from the OLD steering column to the NEW steering column.