Purpose/Function
The steering input force, generated when the driver operates the steering wheel, is transmitted to the steering gear.
Construction
The steering column and shaft consists of the steering column with a built-in EPS mechanism and the intermediate shaft.
As a result of impact absorbing mechanisms on the steering column and intermediate shaft, when a collision occurs, the steering shaft effectively absorbs the impact energy that would be transmitted to the driver, thereby reducing injury.
Due to the adoption of a tilt/telescope mechanism for the steering shaft on all vehicles, operability has been improved.

Operation
Based on the steering torque signal from the torque sensor and the vehicle speed and engine speed signals from the PCM, the EPS CM drives the EPS motor and transmits the assist torque to the intermediate shaft via the deceleration mechanism.
At the moment of a collision, when impact energy (first stage impact) is input from the vehicle front due to the rearward collapse of the steering gear, the intermediate shaft contracts to absorb the impact from the driver. (Section X in the figure)
When the body of the driver contacts the steering wheel (second stage impact), the fixing bracket comes off the dashboard member, and the upper shaft and the outer column slide forward. At this time, the impact absorption plate (one part secured to instrument panel member, another part to fixing bracket) deforms (area A shown in figure cracks) to absorb the impact to the driver. (Section Y in the figure)

The steering wheel can be moved in the up/down and forward/backward direction when the adjusting lever is pressed towards the front of the vehicle to release the lock of the tilt/telescope system.
The tilt/telescope mechanism has a movement range of 45 mm {1.8 in}
(tilt)/ 50 mm {2.0 in}
(telescope) and can be adjusted, without steps, to anywhere in this range.

Fail-safe
Function not equipped.
Wheel, Column
Steering Shaft InspectionRadiator Removal/Installation
WARNING:
Never remove the cooling system cap or loosen the radiator drain plug while
the engine is running, or when the engine and radiator are hot. Scalding engine
coolant and steam may shoot out and cause serious injury. It may also damage
the engine and cooling system.
Tu ...
Clock Spring Adjustment [Two Step Deployment Control System]
1. Set the front wheels straight ahead.
CAUTION:
The clock spring will break if over?wound. Do not forcibly turn the clock
spring.
2. Turn the clock spring clockwise until it stops.
3. Turn the clock spring counterclockwise approx. 2 turns.
4. Align the mark on the clo ...
Panel Light Control Indicator Alarm
Purpose
The panel light control indicator alarm notifies the driver that the panel
light brightness is either at maximum or minimum.
Function
If the panel light control switch is in the maximum rotation position right
or left when the TNS switch ON signal (TNS and headlight ...