Steering column repair overview. During the process, the mechanic will remove the old column by unscrewing it from various positions, which will greatly depend on the car’s make and model. Once unscrewed, the column will be lifted out of position and the wires will be disconnected. Once removed, the mechanic will then make sure that the area is free of any obstacles or debris. Once cleared, the new steering column will be placed into position, connecting securely to the existing screw holes.
Full Answer
Can a damaged steering column be repaired?
Damaged steering columns from wear and tear or those just needing some special attention after years of service can be restored to fully functioning condition. Click here to check out our "STEERING COLUMN INSTRUCTIONS" for repairing the steering column problem you are experiencing.
How do I remove the plastic trim from the steering column?
Remove the plastic trim from the steering column. Remove the hush panels from under the dash. Some are held on with 7mm screws, push fasteners. Remove the knee bolster from under the steering column. These usually pull off and are held in place with clips.
Is there a YouTube channel for GM tilt steering column repair?
- YouTube GM tilt steering column repair. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. Videos you watch may be added to the TV's watch history and influence TV recommendations. To avoid this, cancel and sign in to YouTube on your computer. A channel dedicated to anything GM 73-87 C/K and 88-91 R/V series Chevy squarebody .
How do I know if my steering column is bad?
Top 5 Bad Steering Column Symptoms 1 Steering Wheel Not Centered. When you turn a steering wheel, it is usually able to return to the center without any problems. ... 2 Strange Sounds. Do you hear noises when you turn the steering wheel? ... 3 Steering Wheel Tilt Malfunction. ... 4 Hard to Turn. ... 5 Dirty Steering System. ...
Can a steering column be repaired?
along with the make and model of your vehicle will be the deciding factors in how much the replacement of your steering column is going to cost. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $1,500 for the full replacement job at most auto repair shops.
How do you restore the steering column?
1:183:08How To Restore A Steering Column - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPop out the snap. Ring. Then tap out the shell. Now. All we have to do is remove this upper. AndMorePop out the snap. Ring. Then tap out the shell. Now. All we have to do is remove this upper. And lower band.
Can you drive with a broken steering column?
If the steering wheel does not lock, this is a critical warning sign of a problem with the steering column or one of the many components inside the column. Nonetheless, if this symptom arrives, do not drive the vehicle under any circumstances; as an unlocked steering wheel is a potentially dangerous situation.
How do you tighten a loose steering column?
0:412:11Loose steering column - How to fix - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's 12 millimeter. So basically tighten this you turn to the other side and that should fix it toMoreIt's 12 millimeter. So basically tighten this you turn to the other side and that should fix it to see where it is that. The steering wheel it's just behind it.
How much does it cost to fix a steering column?
The replacement cost of a steering column is anywhere from $400 to $900. The cost for the steering column part itself will only be about $100 if it is used or $300 if it is new. However, the labor is what will cost you the most money for replacing the steering column.
How do you know if your steering column is bad?
If you notice that when you turn your steering wheel it feels loose or clunking, this could also be a sign. You may also notice that when you turn your steering wheel, you hear a squeaking or creaking noise. If your column tilt fails to lock in place, this is also a problem.
What causes a steering column to fail?
Improper Fluid Levels Too much and your valves and seals could collapse under the pressure. Not enough and the fluid can't exert the force needed to turn your car. Replacing your fluid on time will help prevent this issue, but any leaks can cause a loss of fluid that will ultimately lead to power steering failure.
How long do steering columns last?
You use the steering column every time you drive, but it's not subject to the same type of wear and tear as other components. In fact, your car's steering column should last for the life of the vehicle.
How do I test my steering column?
0:423:36Steering Feels & Sounds Clunky? How to Diagnose the ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd kind of twist. And you feel movement right there well then that means that this is no good thatMoreAnd kind of twist. And you feel movement right there well then that means that this is no good that means that there's movement inside the cups. And you need to replace.
How can I make my steering tighter?
1:053:50How To Tighten A Steering Box - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd then you're gonna just take your allen wrench. And put it right in the top. Got the allen wrenchMoreAnd then you're gonna just take your allen wrench. And put it right in the top. Got the allen wrench in there. So now what I'm going to do is try to loosen. The bolt with the wrench.
How can I tighten up my steering?
4:117:52Steering Box Adjustment - How To Tighten to Fix Slop/Free Play/WobbleYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo I'm gonna try to get a 17 mil spanner on this if I can't I might have to get a socket on. It. NowMoreSo I'm gonna try to get a 17 mil spanner on this if I can't I might have to get a socket on. It. Now just like an alpha bit more making sure the adjustment screw isn't turning with it.
What does loose steering mean?
The great enemy of any steering system is loose steering play, commonly called “free play.” When the steering wheel experiences excessive free play, you may find that you aren't able to control the vehicle. The steering may feel loose and may require constant correction in order to keep the vehicle in a straight line.
How do you restore a classic steering wheel?
0:029:31How to Restore a Cracked Steering Wheel - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis is epoxy putty by por-15. Good stuff also have a dremel multi-max tool that I'm going to use toMoreThis is epoxy putty by por-15. Good stuff also have a dremel multi-max tool that I'm going to use to sand down the putty and also the steering wheel itself I've got varying degrees of sandpaper.
How do you restore a wooden steering wheel?
0:523:39HOW TO RESTORE A WOOD STEERING WHEEL - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis is a natural stain. So I know it's not going to be that dark. Already I'm liking the look of itMoreThis is a natural stain. So I know it's not going to be that dark. Already I'm liking the look of it it looks pretty good. Real quick towel look before I tell looks after.
Can a steering wheel be reupholstered?
You can reupholster the wheel on or off the car. Taking it off makes things a bit easier, but is optional.
How do you restore a leather steering wheel?
0:446:06Make Your Shiny Leather Steering Wheel Like New Again! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipClean Magic Eraser. Should work so this thing is wet right now and ready to rock all you do isMoreClean Magic Eraser. Should work so this thing is wet right now and ready to rock all you do is literally. Just start rubbing. And what the mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
Why do you need to replace a steering column?
The only reason you would have to replace one is because someone tried to steal your ride, or you tried to install a steering wheel and busted something inside. Sometimes, wiring can catch fire or you break it trying to change the lock barrel. Most of the time, servicing this part requires a dealer ...
How to remove a pinch bolt from a steering column?
You may have to move the steering wheel to access the bolt. Sometimes this is outside, or inside the vehicle. On many front wheel drive cars with rack and pinion steering, this means dropping the engine cradle 4 inches (10.2 cm) to access it. You may have to peel back a rubber boot to access this as well. Make a note as to how far you had to turn the wheel and return it to the original position after removing the bolt. For example, if you had to turn the wheel 1/2 turn to the right, turn it back 1/2 turn to the left. Use a piece of masking tape or use some other means to keep the wheel from turning after this is disconnected. Turning the wheel too far or losing center can destroy expensive parts.
What happens if you turn the wheel too far?
Turning the wheel too far or losing center can destroy expensive parts. Remove any cables or wires from the steering column. Cars with shifters on the column usually have a cable that runs to the transmission and that could be inside or outside the firewall. Unhook this too.
How to fix a stolen radio?
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait at least 15 or 20 minutes before working on it. This is so the airbag can deactivate. If you have a radio with a theftlock system, you might want to unlock it first or you will be taking it to the dealer to fix it.
How to fix a theft lock radio?
Steps Download Article. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait at least 15 or 20 minutes before working on it. This is so the airbag can deactivate. If you have a radio with a theftlock system, you might want to unlock it first or you will be taking it to the dealer to fix it.
What is the responsibility of steering a car?
Make sure the steering operates correctly before taking the car out in traffic. You are responsible for make sure your vehicle is safe to drive.
How to keep wheel from turning after disconnected?
For example, if you had to turn the wheel 1/2 turn to the right, turn it back 1/2 turn to the left. Use a piece of masking tape or use some other means to keep the wheel from turning after this is disconnected. Turning the wheel too far or losing center can destroy expensive parts.
Steering Column Parts
Whether you want to fix your broken steering column yourself or are looking for steering column parts to keep repair costs low at your local shop, we can help you with the problems that leave your car undriveable. Our specialty is knowing what you might need and providing hard-to-find steering column parts for damaged or broken steering columns.
Rebuilt FORD Steering Columns
We now offer those hard-to-find Rebuilt Steering Columns for Ford trucks. These OEM Ford steering columns have been completely overhauled by a technician in our shop. With over 30 years experience building these types of columns, every one comes out like new.
Steering Column Repair Instructions
We have over 60 sets of STEP-BY-STEP instructions to help you repair any problem you might have with yoursteering column. Damaged steering columns from wear and tear or those just needing some special attention after years of service can be restored to fully functioning condition.
Free Steering Column Exploded Views
Do you need to know what's inside your steering column? Not sure how it's assembled? We offer "STEERING COLUMN EXPLODED VIEWS" for many of the popular steering columns on vehicles today. We know how important it is to have a visual breakdown of these complicated systems.
Steering Column Rebuilding Services
Do you need someone to rebuild your steering column? Did you take it apart and are now not sure how it all goes together? We offer "COMPLETE REBUILDING SERVICES " for many steering columns on domestic vehicles. We understand how complicated these columns can be.
How much does it cost to replace a steering column?
The replacement cost of a steering column is anywhere from $400 to $900. The cost for the steering column part itself will only be about $100 if it is used or $300 if it is new. However, the labor is what will cost you the most money for replacing the steering column.
What is the steering column?
More specifically, the steering column is the link between the steering wheel and the steering mechanism of a vehicle. This means that when a driver turns the steering wheel with their hands, the steering column is transferring this torque power to the steering shaft and pinion.
Why does my steering wheel not lock?
If this steering tilt option malfunctions, it is likely due to a bad component of the steering column. The result will be a freely tilting steering wheel that does not lock in place.
What happens if you let debris build up on your steering column?
If you let enough of this debris build up, then it will have a negative impact on your steering column. To find out if this is the reason, you can have your steering column inspected to see if there is dirt there. If so, then that is definitely the reason for its malfunctioning behavior.
Why does my power steering tilt?
Most power steering vehicles have a steering tilt function which lets the driver change the angle of the steering wheel. This option is supposed to help the driver position the steering wheel more comfortably for them to operate. If this steering tilt option malfunctions, it is likely due to a bad component of the steering column.
What happens when you turn the steering wheel?
When you turn a steering wheel, it is usually able to return to the center without any problems. The power steering system includes this ability in it. But, this ability will be compromised if the steering column is blocked or damaged for whatever reason. The result will be a steering wheel that is more difficult to center.
Why does my steering column make a loud noise?
The reason for these sounds is due to bad internal components within the steering column. In most cases, the sounds will start small and then gradually get louder and more frequent as time goes on.
When did GM start using tilt steering columns?
Prior to 1969, GM had tilt steering columns in production, but these were typically only available in their luxury models. From 1969 on up, tilt columns were readily available in most GM vehicles. These new tilt columns featured the ignition in the column rather than on the dash. Since then, hot rodders, street rodders and every one in between uses ...
What is the greasy mess on the steering wheel?
This greasy mess is the steering wheel lock and lock shaft, and-you guessed it-pull them out too.
How to remove tilt spring?
The tilt spring is held in place with a clip; use a flat tip screwdriver and compress the clip for removal.
Do GM tilt columns have problems?
These new tilt columns featured the ignition in the column rather than on the dash. Since then, hot rodders, street rodders and every one in between uses the GM tilt column when they build their cars. However great these columns are, they do have some inherent problems. After several years of use and abuse they tend to malfunction.
