Inspection After Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Quest. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check for damage to steering column jacket tube, if damage is found, replace steering column with new one.
If vehicle has been in a collision, check column length "L1" or "L2" as shown in the figure. If out of specification, replace steering column with new one.
Steering column length

L1 : 158 mm (6.22 in)

L2 : 238 mm (9.37 in)
Check for proper lubrication, apply grease as necessary.

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Column Length

Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.