GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 1859-A Steering Wheel Puller

Removal Procedure

    Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

       • Air bag deployment
       • Personal injury
       • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
    In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
       • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
       • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

    Notice: The front wheels of the vehicle must be maintained in the straight ahead position and the steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft. Failure to follow these procedures will cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in damage to the SIR coil assembly.

  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.
  2. Place the front wheels in the straight ahead position.
  3. Ensure the steering column is in the lock position.
  4. Remove the inflatable restraint steering wheel module. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in SIR.
  5. Disconnect the horn electrical connector.
  6. If the vehicle is equipped with cruise control, disconnect the cruise control electrical connector.
  7. Remove the steering wheel retaining nut.
  8. Place matchmarks on the steering wheel and on the main shaft.

  9. Object Number: 244072  Size: SH

    Notice: When removing the steering wheel, use only the specified steering wheel puller. Do not hammer on the end of the steering column shaft. Hammering could loosen the plastic injections which maintain the steering column rigidity.

  10. Remove the steering wheel using the J 1859-A .

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 363398  Size: SH
  1. Install the steering wheel to the column aligning the matchmarks.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the steering wheel retaining nut (2).
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 34 N·m (25 lb ft).

  5. Install the horn electrical connector.
  6. If the vehicle is equipped with cruise control, install the cruise control electrical connector.
  7. Install the inflatable restraint steering wheel module (1). Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in SIR.
  8. Ensure the steering wheel is centered.
  9. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in SIR.