How to Replace the Steering Column on the 2007 Chevy Tahoe

You will need to disconnect the steering wheel first.

The steering column on your Chevy Tahoe holds not only the steering wheel but also numerous connectors and wires, like those to the ignition switch and the gearshift. Removing and replacing the steering column is a delicate operation, because you must maintain the alignment of the steering column to the shaft and the steering wheel to the column. The steering wheel is not permanently connected to the column and you will need to separate the two.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Small rod
• Screwdrivers
• Permanent marker

Instructions

Removal

1. Observe and make sure the front wheels are pointing straight forward, then disconnect the Tahoe's negative battery cable. Wait for the air bag electrical system's energy to dissipate; it should take two minutes.

2. Inset a small screwdriver or a thin metal rod into each of the holes on the sides of the steering wheel to disconnect the air bag and remove it, disconnecting the electrical connector. Unplug the clock spring's connector also.

3. Remove the wheel's retaining nut with a wrench and mark the wheel's related position to the shaft if there are no marks, using tape or a marker. Wiggle the wheel off the shaft and remove it, guiding the air bag wiring harness through the wheel hub.

4. Unscrew the mounting screws for the lower steering column cover with a screwdriver, then separate and remove the two cover halves. Unscrew and remove the knee bolster below the column, then unbolt and remove the steel reinforcement with a wrench.

5. Pry the shift cable within the column off the lever arm with a flat screwdriver, then remove the retaining clip and disconnect the cable from the steering column bracket.

6. Disconnect all other electrical connectors from the column and their wiring harnesses.

7. Mark the steering shaft's relationship to the intermediate shaft with a marker and remove the nuts connecting the two shafts. Remove the steering column mounting nuts -- retain the washers on the beneath the rear mounting bracket -- and separate the column from the shaft.

Installation

1. Guide and connect the replacement column into the intermediate shaft, using the old column's markings as a guide, then apply the mounting nuts without tightening them.

2. Install the steering shaft fasteners and tighten the nut to 37 foot-pounds, then tighten the steering column nut to 46 foot-pounds.

3. Connect the wiring harnesses and electrical connectors on the steering column. Clip and reconnect the shift cable to the shift lever arm.

4. Reconnect the knee bolster with its steel reinforcement and the covers for the steering column.

5. Connect the steering wheel to the column using its marks and the mounting bolt. Guide the air bag harness back through the wheel hub and connect the clock spring's electrical connector.

6. Install the air bag on the wheel, connecting its electrical connector and clipping the module in place.

7. Reconnect the battery cable.

References

• "Chilton General Motors Full Size Trucks Repair Manual"; Mike Stubblefield; 2009