Column Cover Removal/Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Pull down the steering wheel
Remove the blind rubber. See METER HOOD REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .
Pull the upper column cover in the direction of the arrow in the order of (1) and (2), then remove the upper column cover while detaching the tabs and pin

Fig 1: Removing/Installing Upper Column Cover
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Pull up the steering wheel.
Remove the lower column cover in the direction of the arrow (4) while keeping it open in the direction of the arrow (3) shown in the figure.

Fig 2: Removing/Installing Lower Column Cover
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install in the reverse order of removal.