Steering Wheel Removal and Installation

Overview

This procedure explains how to remove and install the steering wheel on your Porsche 944 with the 16v engine. Whether you’re replacing the wheel, servicing the steering column, or upgrading to an aftermarket option, this guide ensures you can do it safely and correctly. It’s important to follow these steps carefully, especially if your 944 has an airbag, to avoid damage or accidental deployment.

Pink and blue text represents links to additional resources, tools, parts, and partner websites.

Tools Required

• Metric socket set
• T30 Torx socket
• 24mm (15/16 inch) socket
• Ratchet
• Small flat-tip screwdriver (for aftermarket horn buttons, if applicable)
• Paint pen, nail polish, or marker (for alignment marks)

Required Additional Procedures

Steps in these procedures are required to complete this process:

• Air Bag Warning Light Reset

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Disconnect the Battery

1. Locate the battery in the engine compartment and disconnect the negative (-) lead using a 10mm (3/8 inch) wrench. This ensures no power flows to the airbag system (if equipped) during removal.

Step 2: Remove the Steering Wheel (Non-Airbag Cars)

2. Pull firmly on the horn pad to remove it from the steering wheel. It may resist, but don’t worry about breaking it—it’s designed to pop off.
3. If you have an aftermarket wheel (like a Momo) with a center horn button, gently pry around the button’s edge with a small flat-tip screwdriver to release it.
4. Disconnect the wire from the back of the horn button.

5. Use a 24mm (15/16 inch) socket and ratchet to remove the steering wheel retaining nut and the washer behind it.

6. Mark the steering wheel’s position on the steering column shaft splines with a paint pen or marker. This ensures proper alignment during installation.
7. Pull the steering wheel straight off the column with steady force.

Step 3: Remove the Steering Wheel (Airbag-Equipped Cars)

8. Wait at least 30 minutes after disconnecting the battery to ensure the airbag system is fully depowered.
9. Locate the two recessed Torx screws on the back of the steering wheel. Use a T30 Torx socket and ratchet to remove them.
10. Slide the airbag assembly off the front of the steering wheel and unplug the connector on the back.
11. Set the airbag aside face-up in a safe spot where it won’t get damaged.
12. Use a 24mm (15/16 inch) socket and ratchet to remove the steering wheel retaining nut and the washer behind it.
13. Mark the steering wheel’s position on the steering column shaft splines with a paint pen or marker for proper alignment later.
14. Pull the steering wheel straight off the column with steady force.

Step 4: Install the Steering Wheel

15. Slide the steering wheel onto the steering column, aligning it with the marks you made during removal.
16. Install the retaining nut and tighten it to 45 Nm (33 ft-lbs) using a 24mm (15/16 inch) socket and torque wrench.

Step 5: Reconnect Components (Non-Airbag Cars)

17. Attach the horn button wire to the back of the horn pad.
18. Press the horn pad firmly back into place on the steering wheel.

Step 6: Reconnect Components (Airbag-Equipped Cars)

19. Plug the wire back into the connector on the airbag assembly.
20. Slide the airbag into place on the steering wheel.
21. Secure it by installing the two T30 Torx screws on the back of the wheel using a T30 Torx socket and ratchet.

Step 7: Check the Airbag Warning Light (Airbag-Equipped Cars)

22. Stand outside the car, reach in, and turn the ignition on. Staying outside reduces risk if the airbag deploys unexpectedly.
23. Start the engine and check if the airbag warning light stays on.
24. If the light is illuminated, reset it by following this link to ensure this step – Air Bag Warning Light Reset – of the process is followed accurately.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Ensure the steering wheel is secure and doesn’t wobble when turned.
• Test the horn to confirm it works (non-airbag cars).
• Verify the airbag warning light is off after resetting (airbag-equipped cars).
• Check that the wheel aligns properly with the front wheels when driving straight.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manual, Volume 1
• Youtube