Steering Wheel Removal by Mr&Mrs

4 minute read

Steering Wheel Removal 

Compliments of Mr&Mrs @ the370z.com

4-15-2011

Disclaimer: You will be working with an air bag during this process I am not responsible for any damages to yourself or property. I am not a mechanic nor do I imply that I am, this is simply a guide I made for installing a CF Element Wheel Ring.

Member aszyd purchased this to help with his removal:DEWALT 1 in. Torx Security Drill Bit Tip Set (7-Piece)-DWA1TS-7 at The Home Depot

Now since that has been said lets get on with it.

Tools Needed:

Cordless Drill
1/2 inch or 3/4 ratchet with extension
T30 Tamper Proof Torx Head (I suggest one that will fit in an electric drill)
Six point 19mm Socket
10mm Socket
3 inch extension
Needle Nose Pliers

Removal:

This is very simple if you have the right tools, I did not so I had to run out and pick something up. That was the Tamper Proof Torx Head (it has a hole in it, not flat like a normal Torx). Without this you cant continue so go get one.

!!!DO NOT BEGIN REMOVAL WITHOUT DISCONNECTING BOTH BATTERY CABLES!!!

First, remove both battery cables with a 10mm socket. Now wait at least 3 minutes before going to step two, to insure power is gone.

Second, remove the two plastic caps on both sides of the steering wheel.

I only pictured one side, do the same on both.

Third, remove the two T30 size Tamper Proof screws holding in the air bag. (They are located behind the caps you removed.) These have way to much loctite on them I could not get them to budge with the Torx Screw Driver. Luckily I also got one that would fit in the drill with an adapter.

Fourth, once the two T30 screws have been removed you can slide the air bag out. Pull gently straight towards you. Do not pull it out to far there are three cords that need to be removed. In the picture below you will notice a yellow, and an orange clip. use the needles nose pliers and push in on the black sides, then pull straight out. The other harness is just like all the others out there so I didn't picture it.

Set the air bag off to the side, do not bump or drop it.

Fifth, remove the center bolt holding on the wheel using a 19mm six point socket with 3" extension. I used a 3/4 ratchet but it would probably be easier with a 1/2 inch.

Sixth, grab both sides of the wheel and pull towards your body, it should come off with little effort.

Seventh, remove the plastic shroud from the back of the wheel to be used on the new wheel. It just snaps on and off.

Now just put it back the way you took it off, very simple. Here is an installed photo.

Thanks for looking +rep if you liked, or used this DIY.

If you have any other question shoot me a PM.