As far as not having the steering wheel move when the key is inserted or taken out, just move the steering wheel all the way up while the key is in, and after that the wheel will not move again with key movement.

I very rarely move my wheel from the far up position, so I get very little use on this mechanism. I also make sure to move the wheel back up manually before removing the key and there is no problem.

If my motor ever goes out, I assume I will have to change it.

 

i called the local lexus dealership and they told me that they could only replace the whole steering wheel column and total would cost around a grand

 

Anyone have instructions on how to remove the plastic cover for the steering column?

 

So did anyone figure out how to fix this problem. In the summer, the movement would squeak. Now that it is cold, the damn think is stuck in the down posibtion and didn't retract. Only telescopes. Of course, it went down one more time, so now I drive with the wheel in my crotch.

 

I fixed this in Dec. 2003. There is a write, do a search for my screen name. You'll see my diy write up. I believe the thread is "motorized steering wheel tilt"

 

I just got my car out this evening (its below freezing right now) started it up . Now the Telescope wheel works fine but the Tilt will not. It's actually stuck at the top position and I feels like I'm driving a freaking bus. Everytime I hit the button, it makes a single click sound but it does not move at all. Hopefully it'll work in the spring when its warmer.....if not I'll take it into the dealer.