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I'm sure this has been covered, but my forum search was fruitless.
I have a 2022 XLT. I want to switch out the slippery, plastic steering wheel. I disconnected the batteries, and went to remove the airbag...nothing. I used a long 4mm allen. I don't bottom out on anything that feels like a spring detent, but rather soft, almost tar like stuff. Nothing budges. Help! Thanks!!!
When I swapped my steering wheel I used the size allen wrench they said and had the same issue as you.
I tried a different size (I think one size smaller) and presto it popped right off.
The 4mm did not work for me.
I think it was one size smaller but it could have been one size larger.
What I do remember is I tried and tried with the 4mm and almost gave up till I tried a different size and it popped right off.
I used a T-Handle 3mm Allen wrench and it worked perfect. Once you slide it into the wheel and it stops, press in on the top of the steering wheel center and push the wrench firmly. You should definitely feel it move and stop. Pressing on the steering wheel center helps to take a little pressure off the latch mechanism. Once you feel the retainer move pull out lightly on the center and it should come forward about 1/4". Swap the wrench to the other side and repeat. It should pop out easily.
I took some pics when I disassembled my F-150 to add adaptive cruise.
The retainers you are pushing with the wrench are labeled below. This is what it looks like inside:
Once you have it released carefully remove the airbag connections by popping up the retainer locks. The airbag connectors are yellow and the retaining locks are orange and pop up for release. Note this is a 2015 F-150 - it may look a bit different inside yours. by
3mm did the trick! Swapped the wheel and kept the graphite XLT trim and buttons. Looks good, but most importantly, not slippery as a fish anymore! Thanks everyone!
