Removal and installation of steering wheel

* Be sure to read the section Safety precautions when working on the airbag system.

REMOVAL

1. Disconnect the battery ground cable. The battery is located in the luggage compartment behind the right side trim panel.

* Disconnecting the battery erases data stored in electronic control unit memories, such as engine fault memory.

2. Insulate the battery ground cable to prevent accidental contact.
3. Remove the three bolts securing the lower steering column trim.

4. Press the upper steering column trim inward on both sides in the area shown in the illustration, and pull the lower trim downward.

5. Disconnect the airbag plug connector (orange).

6. Disconnect the steering wheel switch connector, if equipped.
7. Remove the two Torx 27 mm screws from the back of the steering wheel.
8. Lift the airbag unit and disconnect the following connectors:
a) Ignition lock (1).
b) Horn (2).
c) Combination switch (3).

9. Remove the airbag unit and place it with the cushion side facing up, for example in the luggage compartment.
10. Set the wheels straight. The marks on the steering wheel and the shaft must align.

11. Remove the bolt (arrow in the accompanying illustration).

* After the bolt is removed, the safety spring (F) is activated, which holds the contact ring in the center position. After the bolt is removed, never turn the steering wheel. Otherwise, the contact ring will be damaged.

12. Mark the position of the steering wheel relative to the steering shaft.
13. Remove the steering wheel from the steering shaft. If necessary, use a puller.

* Do not strike the steering wheel to remove or install it. Take care not to damage the cable when removing the wheel.

INSTALLATION

1. Check the position of the contact ring on the steering wheel. The marks (1) must align. Refer to the accompanying illustration. If the contact ring has been displaced or if you are not sure it is in the center position, adjust the position of the contact ring as follows.

2. Press the spring (F) and turn the contact ring left and right until it stops. Count the total number of turns and divide by two.

3. Turn the ring back from the stop by half of the counted number of turns so that the marks (1) align. Release the spring (F).

4. Check that the turn signal lever is in the neutral position. Otherwise, the cam may be damaged when the steering wheel is installed.
5. Install the steering wheel onto the splined steering shaft so that the previously made marks align. Make sure the locating pin (1) engages the groove (2).

6. Tighten the steering wheel retaining bolt to the torque given in the Specifications.

* Do not turn the steering wheel before the retaining bolt is tightened. The contact ring may be damaged.

7. Install the airbag unit and connect the connector. Refer to the Removal section.
8. Insert the airbag into the steering wheel and tighten the retaining bolt to 2 N·m. Make sure the cable is not pinched.
9. Connect the airbag connector (orange) and the steering wheel switch connector.
10. Install the lower steering column cover. Press it on and secure it. The lock (1) must engage the hook (2). Refer to the accompanying illustration.

* The illustration shows the cover from below.

11. Secure the cover with three bolts.
12. Connect the battery ground cable. Set the clock.
13. Drive the vehicle and check that the steering wheel is centered when driving straight. The upper spoke of the wheel must be horizontal.
14. If the steering wheel position is incorrect, remove it again and reposition it.
15. Check the operation of the horn.
16. Check the automatic return of the turn signal switch.

* A dirty steering wheel can be cleaned with a neutral cleaner and warm water. Do not use abrasive paper.