Steering Wheel Swap.

[ndm8966]

I have a 59 plate Aygo Blue with the standard rubber/plastic steering wheel. I would like to swap this for a leather one from another Aygo.

Is this a straight forward swap or is it not that easy?

Probably a stupid question but I'm unsure.

[Raistlin]

I understand that the boss is the same so in theory it should be a straight swap but be careful of the airbag...

[Valvematic]

It's the airbag that would cause issues here.

[ndm8966]

Please explain further

[Raistlin]

You are dealing with an explosive device to deploy the air bag, caution must be used.

It is not a simple bolt on job, the wiring must be done correctly and preferably by an auto electrician...

[ndm8966]

That much I do understand.

[Raistlin]

Then you have all the information required to make a decision, No one will post steps on what to do as the risk is too great.

[Unklian]

It's not a complex job.
I have done my wife's and my own steering wheel but I've been spannering for years.

Just a couple of fasteners, a couple of connectors, the nut that holds the wheel.
Swap rims & replace.

Some hefty bits, some fine, delicate work. Both MUST be done correctly.

I don't want to patronise, but I wouldn't suggest it as a job for a novice.

Because......

Even AFTER safety precautions, as people have mentioned, it is explosive.

During an accident, an airbag fully inflates, then you land on it.

If it deploys while you are holding it or within "range". it WILL hurt......a lot.

I don't think a garage will charge you much for the swap, I should think 1 hour labour including

a ten minute tea-break just to make sure the system is fully discharged before starting work would be reasonable.

(they do feel so much better when fitted though).

I think it's worth the trouble & a bit of cash to do the swap.

Ian.

[ndm8966]

Thank you.I will get someone to swap them over for me.Just wondered if they had slightly different fittings.

[Unklian]

Exactly the same fittings.
You need nothing but the new, leather covered rim.

And a careful, tidy mechanic.

Ian.

[Devon Aygo]

Just a note to add from the 2012 facelift onwards the shape of the airbag changed so if you are buying only a leather steering wheel a 2012 > steering wheel will not fit with your earlier airbag

[ndm8966]

Been told by a garage that it has to be Toyota that does the swap.True or false?

[Devon Aygo]

No, not true, there are precautions to be taken in removing and refitting the airbag but beyond that it is not a specialist job

[ndm8966]

That's what I thought.Local garage that I use wouldn't touch it though.