Removal and installation the steering wheel (Opel Astra G)

The models of vehicles covered in this manual are equipped with a supplemental restraint system (SRS). Before performing any work near the air bag unit, steering column or instrument panel, turn off the SRS to avoid injury from accidental deployment (see Chapter On-board electrical equipment). The SRS circuit wiring is easily identified by its yellow insulation. To avoid damaging the SRS system, Make sure that the steering shaft does not turn after removing the steering wheel. Lock the column with the ignition key with the front wheels straight ahead.

Removal

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait at least 1 minute to allow the SRS independent power supply capacitor to fully discharge.

2. Place the front wheels in a straight-ahead position and lock the steering column by removing the key from the ignition switch.

3. Remove the horn activation button/airbag module (see Chapter On-board electrical equipment). Move the airbag module to a safe location and place it with the cover facing up.



4. If equipped, disconnect the electrical wiring from the radio remote control switches.



5. Using a TORX key, unscrew the bolt securing the steering wheel to the column.



6. Mark the position of the steering wheel (4) on the column shaft (5).



7. Grasp the wheel with your hands on both sides and rock it from side to side to remove it from the shaft splines. After removing the wheel, release the wiring harness from its central hole that goes to the contact block and (with appropriate equipment) radio remote control buttons.

8. Try to prevent the contact block from shifting after removing the steering wheel - if necessary, secure it with tape.

Installation

1. Make sure that the arrows on the contact block are aligned correctly - if necessary, press the holder, turn the block counterclockwise until it stops, then return it to the central position (follow the instructions included with the unit).



2. Bring the steering wheel to the column and pull the wiring harness through its center hole.

3. Set the turn signal switch to the middle position (Off) and place the steering wheel on the shaft splines - ensure that the marks made during dismantling are correctly aligned and that the contact block does not shift.

4. Screw in and tighten the mounting bolt securely.

5. If equipped, connect the wiring to the radio remote control buttons.

6. Connect the wiring harness and reinstall the airbag module/horn switch and connect the wiring harness. Install the two mounting screws and tighten them to the specified torque.

7. Connect the negative cable to the battery.