Upgrade Your Accord with a Heated Steering Wheel!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Disconnecting the Battery
- Removing the Airbag
- Removing the Clock Spring
- Removing the Steering Wheel
- Transferring Parts for Aftermarket Steering Wheel Install
- Removing Top Trim Piece
- Removing Steering Wheel Controls
- Removing Paddle Shifters
- Installating the Heated Steering Wheel
- Assembling the Steering Wheel
- Installing the Clock Spring
- Conclusion
Introduction
In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to install a heated steering wheel in a 2018 and up Accord. This installation process can also be applied to any steering wheel installation for these Accord models. By following these instructions, you can upgrade your car with a heated steering wheel for added comfort during the colder months. So let's get started!
Disconnecting the Battery
Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This step ensures your safety while working on the electrical components of the steering wheel. Simply use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative terminal and remove the cable.
Removing the Airbag
The first step in replacing the steering wheel is to remove the airbag. Use a pick or a similar tool to push into the hole on the side of the steering wheel and pop out the airbag. Repeat this step on the other side to fully remove the airbag. Next, disconnect the two connectors attached to the airbag. The green connector can be easily removed by pushing on a tab, while the yellow locking tabs on the other connector can be pried up with a flat head screwdriver.
Removing the Clock Spring
After removing the airbag, you need to remove the clock spring. Start by disconnecting the harness connected to the clock spring. Then, use a socket and a breaker bar to remove the bolt holding the steering wheel in place. While holding the steering wheel in one hand, turn the breaker bar counterclockwise to loosen the bolt. Once removed, the center piece can be taken out, and the steering wheel should be free to come off.
Removing the Steering Wheel
If you are installing a normal aftermarket steering wheel, you can proceed with transferring all the necessary pieces from the old steering wheel to the new one. Make sure to keep the clock spring centered during this process. However, if you are installing a heated steering wheel, there are a few additional steps involved.
Transferring Parts for Aftermarket Steering Wheel Install
To disassemble the steering wheel for a heated steering wheel installation, you will need to do it inside the car. Remove the two Phillips head screws holding the bottom piece of the steering wheel. After removing the screws, pull out the bottom piece and transfer it to the new aftermarket steering wheel.
Removing Top Trim Piece
Next, you need to remove the top trim piece of the steering wheel. This piece is often fragile, so it's important to take your time and be careful not to break any clips. Inside the top trim piece, you will find a tab that can be pulled to release it. Slide the trim piece forward as you remove it to minimize the risk of breaking any clips.
Removing Steering Wheel Controls
After removing the top trim piece, you can now remove the steering wheel controls. Simply take them out and disconnect the harnesses attached to them. Repeat the same process for the controls on the other side of the steering wheel.
Removing Paddle Shifters
To remove the paddle shifters, which are located at the back of the steering wheel, you will need to unscrew them using the appropriate tools. Once the screws are removed, you can pull out the paddle shifters and unplug the harnesses attached to them. Repeat this step for the paddle shifters on both sides of the steering wheel.
Installing the Heated Steering Wheel
If you are installing a heated steering wheel, there are additional steps involved. First, you need to take apart two plastic covers on the steering wheel. The top cover is held in place by tabs, while the bottom cover has two Phillips head screws and one screw hidden beneath it. Once the covers are removed, you can transfer the bottom section to the new steering wheel.
Assembling the Steering Wheel
After transferring the necessary parts, you can start reassembling the steering wheel. Take off the clock spring and replace it with the new one, making sure to keep it centered by leaving the tab intact until the end. Connect the wiring harness provided with the heated steering wheel, routing it behind the airbag and plugging it into the fuse box. Ground the last wire at the appropriate location.
Installing the Clock Spring
Once everything is in place, you can reattach the clock spring, ensuring that it is centered. Use the screws to secure it and connect all the necessary wires. Finally, tidy up the wiring by using zip ties to secure them in place.
Conclusion
With the heated steering wheel installed, you can now enjoy the added comfort and convenience during cold weather. Remember to reconnect the negative terminal of the battery and test all the functions of the steering wheel before taking it for a short drive to clear any errors.
Highlights
- Easy installation process for replacing the steering wheel
- Upgrade your car with a heated steering wheel for added comfort
- Detailed step-by-step instructions
- Includes instructions for both normal aftermarket steering wheel installation and heated steering wheel installation
- Ensure safety by disconnecting the battery before starting the installation
- Take extra care when removing fragile parts, such as the airbag and top trim piece
- Proper routing and connection of wiring for a successful installation
FAQ
Q: Can I install a heated steering wheel on any Accord model from 2018 and up?
A: Yes, this installation process is applicable to all Accord models from 2018 and up.
Q: Is it necessary to disconnect the battery before replacing the steering wheel?
A: Yes, it is important to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to ensure safety while working on the electrical components.
Q: Can I transfer the parts from my old steering wheel to a new aftermarket steering wheel?
A: Yes, if you are installing a normal aftermarket steering wheel, you can transfer the necessary parts from the old steering wheel to the new one.
Q: Are there any additional steps for installing a heated steering wheel?
A: Yes, installing a heated steering wheel requires disassembling the steering wheel to transfer wiring harnesses and additional components.