I was looking into removing the steering wheel on my K11, because it was not properly symmetrical when the car was heading straight. I decided to document my findings for people with need for this. This guide is also helpful if you need to replace the airbag or switch to an aftermarket steeringwheel.
Step 1. Disconnect the battery!
It is extremely important to disconnect the battery, since airbags work with capacitors. It is designed so that if you are in an accident, and the battery gets disconnected, the airbag system should still function. Let it drain for at least 15 minutes before starting the actual removal. Park the car with the wheels pointing straight so you don't get confused when the steering wheel comes off!
Step 2. The tools.
You are going to need a special security torx bit, called a T50. The airbag is held in with two of these on either side of the wheel. This is what it looks like:
Also, you are going to need a 19mm socket for the actual nut that holds the wheel firmly in place.
Step 3. Electrical connector.
There are three plastic covers around the steering wheel. The two on the sides contain the T50 screws. The one on the bottom contains the electrical connector for the airbag. Start by popping off all the covers, use your nails or a screwdriver if you have short nails
Disconnect the clip by pushing in the tab
Step 4. T50
Here is one of the security bits exposed. Remove both on either side.
Step 5. Finale
You are almost there! Remove the airbag, disconnect the horn connector, and pull out a 19mm socket for the nut. Don't take the nut completely off, it's good to have it just started on the threads when you are yanking the wheel off. You don't want to get hit in the face Congratulations, a winner is you!
Step 6. Reinstallation
Remember to clean and put loctite on the T50's when you reinstall. The airbag system is extremely important, you don't want the bolts coming loose here! Install with caution!
Final thoughts: Airbag systems are very dangerous. If you are unsure about your mechanical skills, have a garage do the work for you. I'm super satisfied since now I can finally enjoy a straight steering wheel again
Step 1. Disconnect the battery!
It is extremely important to disconnect the battery, since airbags work with capacitors. It is designed so that if you are in an accident, and the battery gets disconnected, the airbag system should still function. Let it drain for at least 15 minutes before starting the actual removal. Park the car with the wheels pointing straight so you don't get confused when the steering wheel comes off!
Step 2. The tools.
You are going to need a special security torx bit, called a T50. The airbag is held in with two of these on either side of the wheel. This is what it looks like:
Also, you are going to need a 19mm socket for the actual nut that holds the wheel firmly in place.
Step 3. Electrical connector.
There are three plastic covers around the steering wheel. The two on the sides contain the T50 screws. The one on the bottom contains the electrical connector for the airbag. Start by popping off all the covers, use your nails or a screwdriver if you have short nails
Disconnect the clip by pushing in the tab
Step 4. T50
Here is one of the security bits exposed. Remove both on either side.
Step 5. Finale
You are almost there! Remove the airbag, disconnect the horn connector, and pull out a 19mm socket for the nut. Don't take the nut completely off, it's good to have it just started on the threads when you are yanking the wheel off. You don't want to get hit in the face
Congratulations, a winner is you!
Step 6. Reinstallation
Remember to clean and put loctite on the T50's when you reinstall. The airbag system is extremely important, you don't want the bolts coming loose here! Install with caution!
Final thoughts: Airbag systems are very dangerous. If you are unsure about your mechanical skills, have a garage do the work for you. I'm super satisfied since now I can finally enjoy a straight steering wheel again
