The lower steering shaft assemblies contain coupling rivet pins which were not riveted securely enough during manufacture. Consequently one or both of the pins could loosen from the flange of the flexible coupling during vehicle operation. If one pin is loose, free play would result. If both pins work loose, loss of steering control would occur. Also, the shaft assembly may not contain a metal reinforcement between one or both of the rivet pins and the rubber flexible coupling. As a result, the rubber flexible coupling could tear and produce a noise or loose feeling in the steering system.