I have a 2002 ls sport and want to swap out the stock steering wheel. Reason being my dog (puppy at the time)got hungry one day when i left the car.

I have a chilton manual i think, or haynes. I havent looked at the steps yet.

So what steps do i need to take? I know i need to rent a steering wheel puller. What about the air bags?

Just looking for some helpful hints otherwise not noted in my repair book.

thanks
jake

I think there are torx screws behind the steering wheel that hold the airbag on.remove those,unplug the airbag,take off that big bolt and wiggle the steering wheel off.I was lucky,i didnt need a puller when i replaced my steering wheel.Just make sure u disconnect the battery first lol.


Peter
'06 Cobalt ss/sc W/G85 Package
Gm Stage II W/2.79" Pulley
K&N Drop In Filter
Custom Magnaflow Dual Exhaust

10 mm socket.. no torx..

they wont fall out because they are held in place by little washers inside the steering wheel so dont worry about losing them.

Have a wheel puller handy just in case.. they are easy to use.if you disconect the negitve cable from the batter and then remove airbag and the wheel doesnt just pull off by hand your gonna kick yourself, you will have to put the airbag back on reconnect the battery then go get the puller ect ect.. always better to have it and not need it then to need it and not have it..

^^^^ Thats always a good idea..... but he could just take one of his other vehicles to the store

Removing a steering wheel Hillbilly style:

First get the airbag out of the way.

Sit in the driver's seat and pull back on the wheel with both hands. Have your old lady swat the center of the wheel with a big hammer. Before she starts hitting it, thread that big nut back on a few turns to protect the threads. Its crude but after a good solid wack or two, square on the nut, it'll pop loose.

Don't let her hit you in the teeth with the hammer.

Yeah, that "hillbilly method" has worked fine on any other car I've worked on...except cavaliers. Don't know why.

Just borrow the wheel puller from autozone or whoever, and save yourself a lot of frustration.





99 Base model coupe with custom scratches, dings and dents.
Complete bodywork & paint in progress...

thanks for the replies guys .


Not sure if i will try the hillbilly method, even though i am one.

A hammer always worked for me

steering wheel puller is basically like a pulley puller?

Just asking as i have a pulley puller.


what size bolts thread into the steering wheel?

thanks