GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 1859-A Steering Wheel Puller
    • J 42120 Steering Wheel Puller Legs

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. 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.

  3. Disable the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.
  4. Remove the steering column trim covers. Refer to Steering Column Trim Cover Replacement - On Vehicle .
  5. Remove the inflator module. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in SIR.

  6. Object Number: 442081  Size: SH
  7. Remove the steering wheel nut (1).
  8. Notice: When removing the steering wheel with the specified steering wheel puller and steering wheel adapter legs, ensure that the left leg tab is down and the right leg tab is up. This will prevent the steering wheel and puller from binding and prevent damage to the steering columns integrity.


    Object Number: 649307  Size: SH
  9. Remove the steering wheel using the J 1859-A and J 42120 .
  10. Disconnect the electrical connectors (4) from the column.

  11. Object Number: 442081  Size: SH
  12. Route the electrical connectors (4) through the steering wheel opening.
  13. Remove the steering wheel (2) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 442081  Size: SH
  1. Route the electrical connectors (4) through the steering wheel opening.
  2. Connect the electrical connector (4) to the steering column (3).
  3. Install the steering wheel on the steering column (3).
  4. 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.

  5. Install the steering wheel nut (1) on the steering column (3).
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 37 N·m (27 lb ft).

  7. Install the inflator module. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in SIR.
  8. Install the steering column trim covers. Refer to Steering Column Trim Cover Replacement - On Vehicle .
  9. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in SIR.
  10. Connect the negative battery cable.