Steering Column

The steering column is mounted on a one-piece aluminum bracket attached to the cross car beam. The steering column features two collapsible mechanisms, the upper part sliding away from the driver and the lower part telescoping to allow for movement of the engine and sub-frame during an impact. Vehicles equipped with DSC have a steering angle sensor fitted to the lower end of the upper column. The data is transmitted to the DSC control unit via the CAN bus.

A grommet with an integral bearing seals the column to the bulkhead and provides additional support at the bottom of the column. A "Yoke" type joint secured by a nut and bolt secures the column to steering rack pinion.

The ignition switch, steering lock cylinder and gearbox interlock (ECVT cars only) is mounted on the steering column tube. The interlock prevents the ignition key from being removed until the ECVT lever is in the Park position.

A slip clutch is fitted beside the steering lock detent pin. If force is exerted on the steering wheel, this prevents the detent pin from shearing off. This improves anti-theft protection. To reduce weight the column/lock assembly is made from pressure die cast magnesium.

The rotary coupler for the airbag is attached to the steering column switch unit. This is screwed to the top of the column.

The steering column has a tilt mechanism that allows the steering wheel to move 27 mm up and down from the center. Thus providing a total tilt adjustment of 54 mm. Adjustment is made by means of a lever located under the column cover. The column is counterbalanced by two springs, one either side of the column.