OEM 2001 Buick Park Avenue Steering Column

2001 Buick Park Avenue Steering Column Parts and Q&A

• Q: What should be checked for those involved in accidents with frame damage or significant body damage regarding the steering column on 2001 Buick Park Avenue?

  A: Accident-involved vehicles that show frame damage or major body or sheet metal damage or Steering Column impacts as well as ones where supplemental inflatable restraint systems activated require investigation of possible Steering Column damage or misalignment. The capsules should be checked on the Steering Column bracket assembly to confirm proper bracket slot seating while also checking for loose conditions by manual hand tests. Check the bracket attachment to the jacket assembly for secure capsule seating because replacing the bracket alone should be done when the capsules are not properly positioned while the bracket remains attached to the jacket assembly. The jacket assembly should be replaced when capsules are not secure and the bracket is welded to the jacket assembly. The lower edge of the upper jacket should be measured relative to a specific point on the lower jacket to determine jacket assembly collapse; replace the entire jacket assembly if the measurement is outside of allowed parameters. The Steering Shaft needs visual inspection for sheared plastic materials; any identified material must lead to a Steering Shaft replacement. A dial indicator should be used at the bottom of the Steering Shaft to check runout because frame damage that might cause Steering Shaft bending exceeds 1.60 mm (0.0625 inch).