Steering Upper Shaft Assembly Removal and Installation: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Suzuki XL-7 and 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Turn steering wheel so that vehicle's front tires are at straight-ahead position.
Turn ignition switch to LOCK position and remove key.
Make alignment marks (3) on shaft joint (2) and shaft (upper shaft assembly side) (1) for a guide during reinstallation.

Fig 1: Making Alignment Marks
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
After removing bolt (4) on upper shaft assembly (1) side of shaft joint (2) and loosening bolt (5) on its lower shaft assembly (3) side, move shaft joint (2) to lower shaft assembly side (3) (in arrow direction in the figure).

Fig 2: Moving Shaft Joint To Lower Shaft Assembly Side
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Remove steering upper shaft upper joint bolt (1) and nut (2) and disconnect steering upper shaft upper joint.

Fig 3: Removing Steering Upper Shaft Upper Joint
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Remove steering upper shaft mounting bolts (4 pieces).
Remove steering upper shaft assembly from vehicle.