Steering column, removing and installing: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

The steering column is supplied complete, less steering lock housing

Servicing steering column is not possible.

The steering lock housing can be transferred.

Steering lock housing, removing and installing → Steering lock housing, removing and installing

CAUTION: Before starting work on the electrical system and removing the steering wheel, the following conditions must be met:

Disconnect Ground strap (GND) from battery.
The wheels must be in the straight ahead position.

If you do not follow these instructions, the airbag system may fail during subsequent vehicle operation.

Set the wheels to the straight ahead position.
Pull lever below steering column down.
Pull steering column down and out as far as possible.
Remove steering wheel → 69 - PASSENGER PROTECTION - AIRBAGS, SEAT BELTS

Remove lower stowage compartment.
Remove carpeting.

Remove trim for steering column switch

Fig 1: Locating Steering Column Trim Bolts

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Remove bolts - 1 -.
Take off handle for height and reach adjustment.
Remove bolts - 2 - , - 3 - and - 4 -.
Take off lower steering column switch trim.

Fig 2: Upper Steering Column Switch Trim

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Take off upper steering column switch trim - 1 -.
Separate connector - 1 -.

Release locking tabs - arrow - and pull coil connector with slip ring off steering column switch.

Fig 3: Steering Column Switch Trim Locking Tabs

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This illustration shows a coil connector in a vehicle without Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP)

Vehicles with Electronic Stabilization Program "ESP"

Vehicles with ESP are also equipped with Steering Angle Sensor G85. It is installed in housing together with slip ring and coil connector.

A description of the design and function of the ESP is found in Self-Study Program No. 204.

After work on steering column switch, the basic setting of the Steering Angle Sensor G85 must be checked.

Removing Steering Angle Sensor G85 → 45 ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

The following steps apply to all vehicles.

Fig 4: Upper Steering Column Switch Trim - With ESP

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Remove plastic cover - 1 - over shear head bolts.
Release tie wrap.

Fig 5: Locating Bolt For Steering Column Switch

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Remove bolt for steering column switch and remove steering column switch.

The ignition key removal lock cable must be disconnected on vehicles with automatic transmission → Locking cable for ignition with key withdrawal lock, removing and installing

Fig 6: Locating Cover And Plastic Screws

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Remove plastic screws - 1 -.
Remove cover - A -.

Fig 7: Locating Joint Bolt At Steering Shaft Joint

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Remove joint bolt - 1 - from steering shaft joint and remove universal joint steering gear in direction of -arrow-.

Securing steering column before removal

An assembly aid is required so that the upper and lower parts of the steering column do not pull apart when pulling off steering gear.

If the upper and lower parts of the steering column are pulled too far apart or pushed too close together the splines separate.

It is possible that rattling noises are created later if the splines are not in their original installation position.

Push or pull steering column together or apart until the hole is visible.

Fig 8: Clip Inserted In The Hole

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For example, insert a clip in the hole - arrow -.
Remove the nut.
Pull bolt out.

Fig 9: Steering Column & Bolts Removed

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Remove bolts and take out the steering column.

Fig 10: Steering Column & Bolts Removed

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1 - Hex head bolt

2 - Hex head bolt

22 Nm

3 - Hex nut

4 - Steering column cross member