Steering Column Extension

[Hucklebuck]

I have a 2004 Toyota Corolla. When I move the seat to where my legs are comfortable, the steering wheel is too far away. If I adjust to where the steering wheel is correct, my legs are cramped up.

I have adjusted the tilt on the steering wheel as well as the angle of the seat back. Nothing works to make it fit me. My husband is 9 inches taller than me and he has the same problem.

The remedy would be to extend the steering wheel farther out away from the dash. Not telescoping, but a permanent extension.

Does anyone know if this can be done? And at what expense? And what parts would be necessary?

Thanks!

[MagicRat]

I have exactly the same problem with many newer cars. It is annoying.
In fact some of my car purchases (like my '97 DeVille) were done with a comfortable steering wheel position in mind.

The problem with the extension is the airbag and car safety. The steering wheel position was designed deliberately so the airbag can work properly with the rest of the interior to provide the optimum crash protection.
Extending the wheel closer to the driver may affect safety by increasing the airbag compression forces on the driver and/or not allow the airbag to work properly.

In fact, when Cadillac went to airbags they deleted their telescopic column feature, (which had been very popular) for this reason.

I cannot imagine any responsible mechanic would make this modification (for liability reasons) and I would not recommend you do it yourself. Working with airbags is very dangerous if you do not know exactly what you are doing.

Imo you either have to live with the position or buy another car, as I did.