Which vehicle component is responsible for connecting the steering wheel to the steering gear?

The steering column is the component that connects the steering wheel to the steering gear, enabling the driver to control the direction of the vehicle. It transfers the rotational motion of the steering wheel directly to the steering gear, which then translates that movement into steering input at the wheels.

The steering column also houses various components, such as the ignition switch, and may contain wiring for features like steering wheel controls and horn activation. Its design ensures that the driver's input is smoothly and accurately conveyed, providing the necessary control for steering the vehicle. In contrast, other components listed, such as the pitman arm, idler arm, and track rod, serve different functions within the steering and suspension system, primarily related to the linkage and stability of the steering mechanism rather than linking the steering wheel and steering gear directly.