Wheel, Steering: Removal
Before proceeding. Refer to COLUMN, WARNING .
- Place front wheels of vehicle in STRAIGHT-AHEAD position.
- Remove the battery access cover.
- Disconnect and isolate the battery negative (-) cable. Wait two minutes for the airbag system reserve capacitor to discharge before beginning any steering column, instrument panel, or airbag system/component service.WARNING:
When an undeployed airbag is to be removed from the vehicle, first disconnect and isolate the battery negative (ground) cable. Allow the airbag system reserve capacitor to discharge for two minutes before beginning any airbag system or component service. Personal injury may result if this procedure is not followed.
- Remove the driver airbag. Refer to AIR BAG, DRIVER, REMOVAL
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- Remove the screws (1) and the left switch bank (2).
- Disconnect the air bag wiring connector (2) at the switch bank (1).
- Holding the steering wheel firmly in place, remove the steering wheel retaining nut cover (1) and retaining nut from the steering column shaft.CAUTION:
Do not bump or hammer on the steering wheel or steering column shaft when removing the steering wheel.
CAUTION:Do not attempt to rotate the clockspring rotor once the steering wheel is removed. The clockspring must remain centered in its travel to avoid overextending the clockspring inner parts, causing the clockspring to become inoperative. If removed and handled properly using the correct procedures, it should remain in the "centered" position. If there is any question as to whether the clockspring is in the "centered" position of travel, perform the clockspring centering procedure before installing the steering wheel.
- Holding the steering wheel firmly in the STRAIGHT-AHEAD position, release the steering wheel from the steering column shaft splines. Remove the steering wheel from the column.
- Remove remote audio switches from steering wheel. Refer to SWITCH, REMOTE RADIO, REMOVAL .