I have the Limited model with all the bells and whistles. It has about 330km on the clock.

When I turn the steering wheel, it produces a 'clunk' in the upper column. There is no up/down sideways movement in the wheel. The noise/feeling only happens on rotation. I have checked the universals - pulled out the column twice already. I also checked the bottom bearing. I have just removed the airbag and steering wheel and there is no play in the top bearing. The play seems to be around 1/3 of the way from the steering wheel to the firewall. A big problem is simulating the loads and anchors of the column on the bench

I am thinking of removing the column again and stripping all of the electric motors off. Would there be any problems in taking the electric motors etc with the column in place? Maybe there is some wear in the spline? I notice that there are 2 large allen head grub screws with locking nuts - any ideas what they might adjust?

Any guidance will be appreciated.

 

Search for key word "tilt" and "telescope" .. Use your judgement to separate the two issues as some folks have it mixed up when they posted.
After confirming that the motor spins for me and the worm-gear to straight gear needs alignment, I followed the instructions in the thread and solved my issue with a washer.

Salim

 

Have you replaced the column? Sounds like you've had a lot of practice in removing it, might as well see if you can locate a new/used one. Possible your rack and pinion might have some issues too. Thought my steering column had issues as well, then I replaced my power steering pump with a direct line to the rack and removed my vacuum lines. The steering is completely tight and the clunks went away.