Steering Wheel: Service and Repair

Fig. 4 Removing Clockspring/Airbag Connector:

Fig. 5 Airbag Module Wiring:

1. Disable airbag system as described under MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/AIRBAG SYSTEM DISARMING.
2. Disconnect battery ground cable. Tape and isolate battery ground cable terminal. Wait at least 30 seconds before proceeding.
3. Remove airbag module attaching nuts from back side of steering wheel.
4. Pull airbag module rearward, then carefully disconnect clockspring connector from airbag module as follows:
a. Press airbag lock toward outer sides of airbag module, Fig. 4.
b. Using a screwdriver, carefully pry and disconnect clockspring connector. Use caution not to apply excessive force to connector.
5. Remove airbag module. Removed airbag module should be stored in a clean, dry place with pad cover facing up.
6. Remove steering wheel attaching nut.
7. Scribe mating marks on steering shaft and steering wheel for installation reference.
8. Using a suitable steering wheel puller, remove steering wheel. Do not hammer on steering wheel to remove. Damage to the collapsible mechanism may occur.
9. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Align mating marks on steering shaft and steering wheel.
b. Torque steering wheel attaching nut to 26-32 ft. lbs.
c. Arrange airbag module wiring as shown, Fig. 5.
d. Torque airbag module attaching nuts to 3-4 ft. lbs.
e. Check steering wheel for binding, noise or high effort.
f. Ensure no one is inside of vehicle, then rearm airbag system as described under MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/AIRBAG SYSTEM DISARMING.