Contents: Removal ⇓ Installation ⇓
Please note: All models described in this manual are equipped with airbags. Always disable the airbag units before working in the immediate vicinity of the airbags (see chapter 12).
Removal
1. Turn the steering wheel so that the front wheels are in a straight line position.
2. Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. Disconnect the positive battery cable and wait at least 2 minutes before continuing.
Caution: If your vehicle is equipped with a theft-protected car stereo, make sure you have the unlock code for the day before disconnecting the battery.
3. Remove the four bolts securing the airbag unit to the rear of the steering wheel (figure 14.3).
4. Disconnect the connector from the airbag unit (Fig. 14.4) by turning and holding the airbag unit. Also, disconnect the "cruise control" system connector (if it exists).
5. Remove the airbag unit from the steering wheel.
Caution: Handle the airbag unit with extreme care and store it in a safe place.
6. Loosen the steering wheel mounting nut, then mark the position of the steering wheel relative to the shaft (figure 14.6).
7. To remove the steering wheel from the shaft, you need a puller (figure 14.7). When removing the steering wheel, be careful not to get the airbag and cruise control system wiring caught in the steering wheel.
Warning. Do not turn the steering shaft when the steering wheel is removed.
8. Tape the coil spring to keep it in place (figure 14.8).
Installation
9. Make sure the coil spring is centered, i.e. its mark is facing up. If you do not turn the steering shaft while the steering wheel is removed, the spring will remain centered. If you have rotated the shaft with the steering wheel removed, you must center the coil spring as follows:
- a) Turn the spring clockwise until it stops.
- b) Turn the spring counterclockwise approximately 2 and 3/4 turns so that the mark faces upward.
10. Route the airbag and cruise control wiring harness through the steering wheel, then install the steering wheel onto the shaft, aligning the marks made before removal.
11. Screw on the steering wheel mounting nut and tighten it to the specified torque.
12. Reconnect the airbag and "cruise control" system connectors (if it exists). Install the airbag unit in place and tighten its mounting bolts to the specified torque.
13. To check the airbag unit, turn on the ignition. The "AIR BAG" warning light on the instrument panel should come on and go out after approximately 7 seconds.