Steering Wheel Removal and Installation: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Suzuki Vitara. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove driver air bag (inflator) module from steering wheel referring to DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE .
Remove steering shaft nut.
Make alignment marks (1) on steering wheel and shaft for a guide during reinstallation.

Fig 1: Identifying Alignment Mark
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Remove steering wheel (1) with special tool (A).

CAUTION: Do not hammer the end of the shaft. Hammering it will loosen the plastic shear pins which maintain the column length and impair the collapsible design of the column.

Special tool

(A): 09944-36011

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tool Mounted On Steering

Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.