An apparatus for supporting a steering column (40) in a vehicle (50) adjacent an instrument panel of the vehicle includes a mounting assembly (30) that connects the steering column (40) to the vehicle (50). The mounting assembly (30) includes at least one holding element (170) that has a first condition that blocks pivotal movement of the steering column (40) relative to the vehicle (50). The at least one holding element (170) has a second condition that permits pivotal movement of the steering column (40) relative to the vehicle (50) in response to impact forces urging the steering column (40) to pivot relative to the vehicle (50).