Abstract: A steering column assembly for a vehicle comprising an intermediate assembly which is slideably disposed within a lower assembly so that the intermediate assembly may be moved between an extended and a retracted position. Further, the steering column assembly contains an upper assembly which is pivotally coupled to one end of the intermediate assembly so as to permit the upper assembly to move about a pivot point. The upper assembly further contains a locking assembly which is interconnected between the lower assembly, the intermediate assembly and the upper assembly so that the lower, intermediate and upper assemblies may be locked relative to each other in a selected position when the locking assembly is placed and retained in a first position and permitted to move when said locking assembly is placed and retained in a second position.

Abstract: A steering column for a vehicle having a high natural frequency including a tilt housing assembly having a fixed assembly and a tilt assembly, and a floating locking mechanism for controlling a position of the tilt assembly relative to said fixed assembly, and a telescoping housing assembly receiving a portion of the tilt housing assembly therein such that the tilt housing assembly is adapted to translate relative to said telescoping housing assembly substantially simultaneously with adjustment of the tilt assembly.