The steering column module for a motor vehicle comprises a steering column and a device for the longitudinal and/or inclination adjustment of the steering column. This device for adjustment comprises a control circuit and is equipped with at least one electric motor of the device for adjustment. The steering column module furthermore comprises a clamping device, which is connected to the control circuit and equipped with an electric motor of the clamping device for the actuation of the clamping device between a normally provided clamping position and a release position. In the method, the clamping device is first actuated until it is in the release position and is held in the release position; only then follows an adjustment of the adjustment device until the desired longitudinal and/or inclination adjustment of the steering column has been reached. Thereafter the clamping device is allowed to go back to the clamping position.