Checking Steering Column for Accident Damage

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Suzuki XL-7. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Vehicles involved in accidents resulting in body damage, where steering column has been impacted or air bag deployed, may have a damaged or misaligned steering column.

Check that 2 capsules (1) are attached to steering column bracket (2) securely. Check clearance between capsules and steering column bracket. Clearance should be 0 mm (0 in.) on both sides. If found loose or clearance, replace steering column assembly.

Fig 1: Identifying Capsules And Steering Column Bracket
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Take measurement "a" as shown in figure. If it is shorter than specified length, replace column assembly with a new one.
Steering column assembly length

"a": 490.3 ± 1.0 mm (19.30 ± 0.04 in.)

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Column Assembly Length
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Check steering shaft for smooth rotation.
If found defective, replace as column assembly.
Check steering shaft and column for bend, cracks or deformation.
If found defective, replace as column assembly.
Check steering upper shaft lower seal (1) for breakage or deformation.
If found defective, replace.

Fig 3: Identifying Steering Upper Shaft Lower Seal
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Check steering shaft joints and shaft for any damages such as crack, breakage, malfunction or excessive play.
If anything is found faulty, replace steering upper shaft assembly, steering lower shaft assembly or steering column assembly.
Check steering upper shaft for smooth rotation. To check it for bend, take measurement "b" as shown in figure. If it is shorter than specified length, replace steering upper shaft assembly with a new one.
Steering upper shaft assembly length

"b": 410.3 ± 1.0 mm (16.15 ± 0.04 in.)

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Upper Shaft Assembly Length
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.