^ x2 on the short issue, and unfortunately; electrical system gremlins are not easy to find. I would have a shop take a close look inside the steering column (you could do this yourself, too) and make certain that there aren't any wires that have been rubbed bare or crimped from the tilting of the steering wheel. Also - take a look at your fuse box under the hood - make sure that the nut at the top is tight and not corroded. Also check your battery connections for corrosion/tightness.

HTH, best of luck

-Swash