How to change the steering wheel

[hyck]

I have the 3i and it comes with the plastic steering wheel, I just bought out of Ebay a leather steering wheel for $20 , but I am not sure how to change it, and should I be carefull with the airbag ? Anyone done this or have any ideas how to do it? thanks

 

[Solo2Protege]

Airbags are not active as long as the key is off. Obviosuly disconnecting the battery is also a good idea

I haven't looked at the 3, but the Protege's had a couple screws on the undersides (kinda under the spokes where the audio/cruise buttons are) That will release the airbag/center cover (probably all one peice) unplug whatever needs to be unplugged, then it's just a ~22mm nut.

 

[Leger]

I have the 3i and it comes with the plastic steering wheel, I just bought out of Ebay a leather steering wheel for $20 , but I am not sure how to change it, and should I be carefull with the airbag ? Anyone done this or have any ideas how to do it? thanks

First off disconnect the battery and wait 10 15 mins because the airbag has reserve power so you want to wait awhile so it can drain. 2 little 7's hold the airbag in (i believe it is made by ford and thats how most of them are held on) behind 2 lil circle plugs. after that i beliebe its a big nut just make sure not to turn the clockspring. replace and voila (this is all going off ford style so it may be different) but MAKE SURE to disconnect the battery before you start

 

[VRMS6]

You will need a steering wheel puller to remove the wheel.... Also make sure to center the wheels and steering wheel so that its not crooked when you install it.....

 

[hyck]

steering wheel puller? is that a tool or.. ? Sorry for the noob question

 

[VRMS6]

Yea a steering wheel puller is a special tool to remove the steering wheel from the mounting bolt. Think of it this way your wheel is press fit on the steering column you can try to remove it with brute strenght but that has a slim chance of working.....a SW puller will remove the wheel with no problem at all....

 

[silla3]

are u changing to an aftermarket one if so how will u bypass the air bag sensor??? i was thinking about doing it but didnt want air bag light to be on.

 

[hyck]

I see, thanks TGM3, and Silla no I am not changing it to a aftermarket just the one that comes in the 3s