Some 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander HV vehicles may exhibit a clunk-, pop- or knock-type noise when turning the steering wheel left or right. A new intermediate shaft has been developed to address this condition. The new updated shaft is available as P/N 45220-48171.
Prior to removing the steering intermediate shaft, make sure that the steering wheel and front wheels remain stationary. Once the shaft is removed, do not allow the steering wheel to spin freely. Make sure that the steering wheel is centered before removing the original shaft.
Disconnect the steering intermediate shaft. Remove the clamp from the steering column hole shield. Separate the steering column hole cover from the cover boot. Place matchmarks on the steering intermediate shaft and steering gear assembly. Remove the bolt and disconnect the steering intermediate shaft.
Remove the steering intermediate shaft. Place matchmarks on the steering sliding yoke sub-assembly and steering main shaft assembly.
Remove the bolt and steering sliding yoke sub-assembly from the steering main shaft assembly.
Place the corresponding matchmarks on the new steering intermediate shaft. To place the matchmarks on the new shaft, place a new steering intermediate shaft next to the original shaft and transfer those marks to the same locations on the new shaft.
Install the new steering intermediate shaft. Align the matchmarks. Install the steering sliding yoke sub-assembly with the bolt. Torque to 26 ft-lb (35 Nm).
Align the matchmarks on the steering intermediate shaft and the steering gear assembly. Install with the bolt and torque to 26 ft-lb. Install the steering column hole cover to the cover boot. Install the clamp to the steering column cover hole shield. Road test and confirm that the steering wheel is centered.
Place matchmarks on the sliding yoke and main shaft
Transfer the matchmarks from the original shaft to the new shaft prior to installing the new shaft.
