Overview
- Once the airbag is removed, you’ll see a 19mm nut in the center of the steering wheel.
- Once the wheel is loose, remove the 19mm nut and pull the wheel off the steering column.
- Whether you’re upgrading to a sporty flat-bottom wheel or replacing a faulty one, this guide has provided you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the task yourself.
Are you looking to upgrade your VW Polo‘s steering wheel or fix a faulty one? Removing the steering wheel can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and instructions, it’s a job you can easily do yourself. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, from start to finish.
Safety Precautions
Before you begin, ensure you take the following safety precautions:
- Disconnect the negative terminal of your car’s battery.
- Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Use proper safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses.
Tools Required
- Torx T30 screwdriver
- Torx T50 screwdriver
- 17mm socket wrench
- 19mm socket wrench
- Steering wheel puller (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Remove the Airbag
- Locate the two Torx T30 screws behind the steering wheel on the back of the airbag module.
- Remove the screws and carefully pull the airbag straight towards you, disconnecting the electrical connector.
2. Remove the Steering Wheel
- Once the airbag is removed, you’ll see a 19mm nut in the center of the steering wheel.
- Loosen the nut but do not remove it completely.
3. Detach the Steering Wheel
- Use a steering wheel puller or gently wiggle the wheel back and forth while pulling it towards you.
- Once the wheel is loose, remove the 19mm nut and pull the wheel off the steering column.
4. Disconnect the Electrical Connectors
- Behind the steering wheel, you’ll find several electrical connectors.
- Disconnect these connectors by pressing the release button on each one.
5. Remove the Clock Spring
- The clock spring is located behind the steering wheel.
- Turn the steering wheel 90 degrees in either direction and locate the two Torx T50 screws on the clock spring.
- Remove the screws and carefully pull the clock spring towards you, disconnecting the electrical connector.
6. Install the New Steering Wheel
- Align the new steering wheel with the steering column and push it into place.
- Tighten the 19mm nut to 40 Nm.
7. Reconnect the Electrical Connectors
- Reconnect the electrical connectors behind the steering wheel.
8. Install the Clock Spring
- Align the clock spring with the steering column and push it into place.
- Tighten the two Torx T50 screws to 10 Nm.
9. Install the Airbag
- Plug the airbag electrical connector and carefully push the airbag back into place.
- Tighten the two Torx T30 screws to 5 Nm.
10. Reconnect the Battery
- Reconnect the negative terminal of your car’s battery.
11. Check Functionality
- Start your car and check if the steering wheel and airbag are functioning correctly.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If you encounter difficulties removing the steering wheel, use a steering wheel puller to apply even pressure.
- If the airbag connector is difficult to disconnect, use a small screwdriver to gently pry it loose.
- If the clock spring is stuck, turn the steering wheel back and forth while pulling it towards you.
The Final Touch
Congratulations! You’ve successfully removed your VW Polo steering wheel. Whether you’re upgrading to a sporty flat-bottom wheel or replacing a faulty one, this guide has provided you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the task yourself.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I remove the steering wheel without disconnecting the battery?
A: No, it’s crucial to disconnect the battery to prevent accidental airbag deployment.
Q: What if the steering wheel is stuck after I remove the nut?
A: Use a steering wheel puller or gently wiggle and pull the wheel while applying force.
Q: How do I know if the airbag is disconnected properly?
A: After disconnecting the airbag electrical connector, you should hear a click and see the airbag indicator light on the dashboard.