Park the vehicle with the wheels pointing straight ahead and disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Adjust the
Steering Wheel to its uppermost position and fully extend it telescopically. Remove the steering wheel, taking care not to rotate the steering shaft or airbag clockspring, and avoid changing the angle of the front wheels without the steering wheel completely installed to prevent damage. Remove the steering column covers and the driver's knee bolster, then take out the combination switch assembly, ensuring to disconnect the electrical connectors. Avoid rotating the clockspring to prevent damage; use tape to keep it centered. From inside the vehicle under the instrument panel, remove the steering shaft U-joint cover, and for 2003 and earlier models, remove the two round clips holding the cover. For 2004 and later models, mark the relationship of both parts of the slider shaft to each other. Mark the relationship of the U-joint to the steering gear's input shaft, remove the pinch bolt from the U-joint, and separate it from the input shaft. For 2004 and later models, hold the slider shaft together with wire if necessary, and for 2003 and earlier models, remove both pinch bolts for the steering shaft U-joint if needed. Remove the steering column mounting fasteners, lower the column while ensuring all wire harnesses are detached, and then take the column out of the vehicle. For installation, guide the steering column into position while connecting the U-joint to the steering input shaft, using the index marks made earlier. Install and tighten the steering column mounting fasteners, then install the U-joint pinch bolt and tighten it. Complete the installation by reversing the removal steps and reconnecting the negative battery cable.