Jimmie Johnson takes blame for steering wheel coming off

Posted March 12, 2016 6:00 am

By MIKE CRANSTON

The pit crew of Jimmie Johnson look over the damage to Johnson's car after he crashed in Turn 2 during NASCAR Sprint Cup Series qualifying at Phoenix International Raceway, Friday, March 11, 2016, in Avondale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso) The Associated Press

AVONDALE, Ariz. (AP) - Jimmie Johnson is taking the blame for one of the scariest moments of his career when his steering wheel came off during NASCAR Sprint Cup qualifying.

The six-time series champion takes responsibility for the removable steering wheel not being on tight enough Friday night. He thanks the recent safety improvements that left him unscathed despite slamming into the wall at full speed at Phoenix International Raceway.

Johnson says he pulled on the wheel and it came off in his hands on the second lap of the final round of qualifying. He glanced down and saw the steering column spinning, knew he couldn't put it back and was, in his words, "totally helpless and along for the ride."

Johnson says he's immediately changing his pre-race routine to make sure the steering wheel is tight.

A pit crew member for Jimmie Johnson works under a tarp on Johnson's car after Johnson crashed in Turn 2 during NASCAR Sprint Cup Series qualifying at Phoenix International Raceway, Friday, March 11, 2016, in Avondale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso) The Associated Press

Jimmie Johnson gestures to his crew as he stops for a car adjustment during NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice at Phoenix International Raceway, Friday, March 11, 2016, in Avondale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso) The Associated Press

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