Steering apparatus for a vehicle

The steering unit includes a bolt-like follower (8) between the release element (4) and steering wheel (2) and designed to sink substantially concealed in the release element or steering wheel. The follower is biased by spring force (9) directed against the lowering action. The steering wheel or release element which does not have the follower has instead a detent catch (24) for engaging the facing end of the follower.