Removal of Steering Wheel

The vehicles covered in this Manual are equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). Before performing any work near the airbag module, steering column or instrument panel, disconnect the SRS to avoid injury from accidental deployment (refer to the Body Electrical System section). SRS circuit wiring is easily identified by its yellow insulation. To avoid damaging the SRS, make sure the steering shaft does not rotate after the steering wheel is removed. Lock the column with the ignition key with the front wheels in the straight-ahead position.

PROCEDURE

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable first, then the positive cable.

If the vehicle's installed audio system has an anti-theft code, make sure you have the correct code to reactivate the audio system before disconnecting the battery!

2. Remove the access cover from the steering wheel assembly.

3. To deactivate the airbag, disconnect the 2-pin electrical connector of the airbag module.

4. Remove the access covers from the airbag module mounting bolts on both sides of the lower steering wheel, then remove the TORX-head bolts securing the module to the steering wheel assembly.

5. Carefully remove the airbag module and place it in a safe location.

Do not point the module face toward yourself. Never place any objects on top of the module.
6. Disconnect the electrical connectors of the horn button and (if equipped) the temperature sensor.

7. Unscrew the steering wheel mounting bolt and mark the position of the hub relative to the column shaft.

8. Pull the wheel strictly parallel to its axis and remove it from the steering shaft. If the wheel does not come off, rock it gently.

Never screw the puller bolts into the steering wheel assembly more than five turns, as this may damage the SRS clock spring. For the same reason, do not rotate the column shaft with the steering wheel removed!