Removing a Steering Wheel

For most car and truck drivers, there comes a time when you want to replace the steering wheel. Whether you are replacing an broken steering wheel, or you are looking to personalize your car just that much more with a custom steering wheel, when it comes time to replace your steering wheel you need to remove the old one first.

While it may be daunting, removing your steering wheel doesn't have to be an overwhelming project. All that you need to do is have a plan, and a little confidence in yourself.

1. New steering wheel. Before you remove your old steering wheel, you need to make sure that you have a replacement on hand. When choosing your replacement, you need to make sure that it will fit your make and model of vehicle. Take a look at the instructions that come with your new steering wheel, while also gathering a screwdriver, pliers and a tool called a puller. All of these can be purchased at any local automotive parts store.
2. Straighten wheels. Before you begin removing anything, you need to make sure that the tires are straight. This will help ensure that your alignment is proper after you have installed your new steering wheel.
3. Disconnect electrical system. You want to disconnect the electrical system on your vehicle. This will prevent any accidental electrocutions, possible airbag deployment and the horn blowing out or shorting. The simplest and easiest way to do this is to simply disconnect the battery from the terminals so there is no current running through the system.
4. Disconnect and remove horn. Press down on the horn cap or ring, and turn. This should enable you to remove the emblem cap form the wheel. You may need to pry it up a little, but typically you are going to be able to remove it by simply pulling it towards you. On some vehicles, the horn ring will be secured with screws that are hidden on the rear of the wheel spokes. Now, you need to remove the horn wire or spring-loaded metal plunger from its housing. You should be able to do this by either pulling straight out, or twisting the plastic sleeve to the left and then pulling out. Cut the wire attached to the plastic sleeve, and set the sleeve aside so that you can use it later.
5. Remove shaft-nut. If it is present, you need to remove the shaft-nut retainer clip. Set it aside so that you can use it later. Now remove the shaft nut which holds the wheel to the shaft.
6. Mark. Use a permanent pen or marker, this way you know where you can place the top of the steering wheel when you put the new steering wheel on.
7. Pull steering shaft. You are now ready to pull the steering shaft. Look inside the hub, and locate tow tapped holes. Place the puller into the shaft, and pull. This should remove the steering shaft.
8. Remove the wheel. You are now free to remove the steering wheel.

You have now removed the steering wheel of your vehicle. In order to put the new steering wheel onto the car, all you can pretty much follow the directions that were in the package of the steering wheel. Another option would be to follow theses direction again, but only in reverse.