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 InspectionIdentification Numbers
Vehicle Information Labels
Vehicle Identification Number
The vehicle identification number legally identifies your vehicle. The number
is on a plate attached to the left top side of the dashboard. This plate can easily
be seen through the windshield.
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Label
...
Security Indicator Light
Purpose
Notifies the driver that the immobilizer system is operating.
Function
If a malfunction is detected in the immobilizer system, the DTC can be verified
by the flashing pattern of the security indicator light.
Construction
The security indicator light is bui ...
Map Light Removal/Installation
Front Map Light
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable..
2. Open the sunglasses holder.
3. Remove the screws from the front map light.
4. Move the front map light in the direction of the arrow (1) shown in the figure
and pull out the pin from the bracket.
CAUTION:
Be careful ...