I’m having trouble diagnosing my steering column looseness.

Essentially, the steering wheel moves freely in and out of the telescoping axis. The knobs on the side don’t initiate a motor-sound.

Steering is fine - handles as expected otherwise. A little vibration happens around the 65mph range. I believe that’s just telling me it needs a front wheel alignment.

The in and out movement is concerning. I can keep it in place with my hands out but if I readjust myself in my seat and pull the wheel, it moves and I’d rather it just stay put.

Anybody ever face something similar to this? I’m wondering if the whole steering column needs to be replaced or if there is a few things I could look out for if I pop open the cover. Seems mostly accessible to diagnose but I don’t feel as confident of a full column swap out is necessary.

 

The column plastic/nylon gear is stripped and the steel gear on the motor assy will not engage.

A good used column is going to be the easiest repair.

 

I figured but was hoping otherwise. Do you know if I have to be careful about what kind of column I order?

I feel like I read something about functionality like cruise control and phone buttons and making sure those are a part of the column I order.

Also, are there any manuals that discuss how to remove and replace? I’m wondering if this is at all possible to do myself…

 

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I figured but was hoping otherwise. Do you know if I have to be careful about what kind of column I order?

I feel like I read something about functionality like cruise control and phone buttons and making sure those are a part of the column I order.

Also, are there any manuals that discuss how to remove and replace? I’m wondering if this is at all possible to do myself…

 

I don't know where in the world you are so I can't make any 'blanket-statements' about compatibility.

The column itself has NOTHING to do with mulifunction switches and steering wheel controls.

The main difference I see about part numbers for a particular VIN range is electric or manual steering tilt/reach.(I have never seen a manual column in North America)
I would guess most any 4.0 XK column will work.
You will need to 'swap' your column lock key barrel.(ignition lock)

 

Yes definitely US based.

Ever come across a tutorial? I feel this might be trickier than meets the eye.

 

Where are you in the US? I think I have an extra column in my parts bin. I cannot say if the power mechanism works as it was stripped out of a non-running car though. If you are not near me (IL) then check eBay, they have plenty and are not that much money.

Installing them is actually pretty simple, only 6 or so bolts, hardest part will be removing the column from the coupler into the steering rack.

 

That’s really kind of you to offer. I’m in Connecticut so probably better to order and take my chances on eBay. They seem reasonable, and thank goodness for that!

Also thanks for clarifying difficulty. It’s so hard to find a simple guide on the process. I’ll take a crack at it this week.

 

So I have to come around in slight shame.

I had time to look into the steering wheel looseness again. Turns out I was wrong in that the motors are working and making noise. The up/down moves just fine. It’s the in/out telescoping that still moves if I pull/push the wheel manually.

Does this still require a swap out of a steering column?

 

Hullo there, I realize it is a bit old, but I fell upon this thread as I have a 2002 XKR with a loose column.

I am in St Louis, MO. Where are you located?

If you aren't terribly far, I could definitely make a road trip out of it, if you still have, and are willing to part with, your column...

Cheers!
-Jim