Upgrade Your Chevy Silverado with a Heated Steering Wheel

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Upgrading the Chevy Silverado
3. The Desire for a Heated Steering Wheel
4. Finding the Proper Wiring
5. Required Components
6. Disconnecting the Battery
7. Removing the Airbag
8. Removing the Steering Wheel Shroud
9. Removing the Lower Steering Wheel
10. Different Methods to Remove the Clock Spring
11. Getting Started with the Swap
12. Removing the Old Clock Spring
13. Following the Wire
14. Connecting the New Clock Spring
15. Setting Up the New Steering Wheel
16. Testing the Heated Steering Wheel
17. Troubleshooting the Lack of Power Issue
18. A Simple Fix
19. Enjoying the Heated Steering Wheel
20. Conclusion

Introduction

Hey, what's happening guys? In this video, I want to talk to you about upgrading my 2018 Chevy Silverado. I recently realized that my truck was missing a feature that I absolutely love in my wife's Jeep and my previous car - a heated steering wheel. So, I decided to install a heated steering wheel in my Silverado. In this article, I will take you through the step-by-step process of how I did it, and hopefully, it can help you if you're considering a similar upgrade for your vehicle. Let's get started!

Upgrading the Chevy Silverado

Before we dive into the details of adding a heated steering wheel to my Chevy Silverado, let's take a moment to discuss the truck itself. My Silverado is a 2018 model, an all-star edition with various features. However, one feature it lacks is the heated steering wheel, which can be quite enjoyable during the colder months. So, I decided to look into adding this feature to my truck.

The Desire for a Heated Steering Wheel

Having experienced the comfort of a heated steering wheel in my wife's Jeep and my previous vehicle, I knew I wanted the same luxury in my Silverado. There's something incredibly soothing about feeling the warmth from the steering wheel on chilly mornings or during long drives in cold weather. It adds a touch of luxury and comfort to any vehicle.

Finding the Proper Wiring

To begin the installation process, I needed to locate the appropriate wiring in my truck's steering column. After doing some research and following the wiring, I discovered a pigtail that matched the connector for the heated steering wheel. This meant that I had the necessary wiring in place, making the installation relatively straightforward.

Required Components

To complete the upgrade, I needed two main components: a heated steering wheel and the correct clock spring. I purchased a new heated steering wheel, which cost around $160. However, I later discovered that used ones were available for around $110. I also needed the correct clock spring to ensure the proper functioning of the steering wheel.

Disconnecting the Battery

Before beginning any work on the steering wheel, it is essential to disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical mishaps or safety risks. I made sure to disconnect the battery in my Silverado before proceeding with the installation.

Removing the Airbag

The first step in the installation process was to remove the airbag from the steering wheel. This can be a delicate and nerve-wracking process, but with proper care, it can be done safely. I followed a video tutorial to guide me through the removal process, as it can be challenging to figure out on your own.

Removing the Steering Wheel Shroud

Once the airbag was removed, I proceeded to remove the steering wheel shroud. Contrary to my initial belief, there were no screws holding the shroud in place. Instead, it was secured with pop clips, which could be released by carefully applying pressure.

Removing the Lower Steering Wheel

To gain better access to the steering wheel, I had to remove the lower steering wheel. This required disconnecting the necessary wiring and removing a 21-millimeter bolt. With the bolt removed, I was able to pop off the lower steering wheel.

Different Methods to Remove the Clock Spring

There are different approaches to remove the clock spring, depending on the accessibility and convenience. I tried two different methods. The first involved using a screwdriver to push the spring in from behind, while the second method involved pressing on a specific indentation to release the spring. Both methods worked, but the latter was less likely to cause any damage to the wheel.

Getting Started with the Swap

With the old clock spring removed, I proceeded to install the new one. It was essential to ensure that the steering wheel was locked in place and perfectly straight before proceeding with the installation.

Removing the Old Clock Spring

To install the new clock spring, I first had to disconnect the wiring connected to the old one. I followed the wire down the steering column and eventually discovered the connector at the bottom. It required snipping some wire ties and unplugging the connector to remove the old clock spring.

Following the Wire

I continued to follow the wire, which went down the steering column, up, and over a black box, and finally connected to the body connector. I noticed that the wire's route was quite peculiar, but I managed to trace it and disconnect it, allowing me to proceed with the installation.

Connecting the New Clock Spring

After removing the old clock spring, I aligned and installed the new one. It simply required snapping it into place, ensuring that it was centered properly. This step was relatively straightforward and didn't pose any significant challenges.

Setting Up the New Steering Wheel

With the new clock spring in place, it was time to put everything back together. I replaced the airbag, secured the steering wheel, and ensured that everything was connected correctly. It was important to double-check all connections and ensure that the steering wheel was positioned correctly.

Testing the Heated Steering Wheel

Once everything was in place, I connected the battery and started the car. I was excited to test out the heated steering wheel and see if it was working properly. Unfortunately, I initially encountered an issue where the steering wheel didn't heat up. It turned out to be a lack of power, which required a simple fix.

Troubleshooting the Lack of Power Issue

To troubleshoot the lack of power to the heated steering wheel, I checked the fuse and found that it had power. However, the harness for the heated steering wheel wasn't receiving power. I didn't want to deal with complex wiring or modifications, so I used a workaround solution.

A Simple Fix

To ensure that the heated steering wheel received power, I used an add-a-circuit device. I connected it to the fuse for the heated steering wheel, allowing the harness to receive the necessary power. This simple fix resolved the lack of power issue and allowed the steering wheel to heat up properly.

Enjoying the Heated Steering Wheel

With the heated steering wheel now fully functional, I can enjoy its luxury and comfort during colder weather. It adds an extra level of coziness to my truck, making every drive more enjoyable. I'm pleased with the outcome of the upgrade and would highly recommend it to anyone considering adding a heated steering wheel to their vehicle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the process of adding a heated steering wheel to my 2018 Chevy Silverado was relatively straightforward. With the right components, careful disassembly, and proper wiring, anyone can perform this upgrade. Enjoying a warm and comfortable steering wheel during cold weather is a small luxury that can significantly enhance the driving experience. So, if you're considering adding this feature to your vehicle, I would encourage you to give it a try. Stay cozy and happy driving!

Highlights

• Upgrading the Chevy Silverado with a heated steering wheel
• The desire for a luxurious and comfortable driving experience
• Finding the proper wiring and components for the installation
• Step-by-step guide to disconnecting the battery and removing the airbag
• Removing the steering wheel shroud and lower steering wheel
• Different methods to remove the clock spring
• Installing the new clock spring and setting up the new steering wheel
• Troubleshooting the lack of power issue and finding a simple fix
• Enjoying the luxury and comfort of a heated steering wheel in the Chevy Silverado

FAQ

Q1: Is it easy to install a heated steering wheel in a Chevy Silverado?

A1: Installing a heated steering wheel in a Chevy Silverado requires some technical knowledge and careful disassembly. However, with the right components and proper wiring, it can be a relatively straightforward process.

Q2: Can I install a heated steering wheel in any vehicle?

A2: Not all vehicles are equipped with the necessary wiring and components for a heated steering wheel. It is essential to research and ensure that your vehicle is compatible before attempting the installation.

Q3: Does adding a heated steering wheel void the vehicle's warranty?

A3: Any modifications or alterations made to the vehicle, including adding a heated steering wheel, may potentially void the warranty. It is advisable to consult with the vehicle manufacturer or a certified dealer to understand the warranty implications before proceeding with the installation.

Q4: Is it worth adding a heated steering wheel to my vehicle?

A4: The addition of a heated steering wheel can enhance the comfort and driving experience, especially during cold weather. It adds a touch of luxury and can make winter drives more enjoyable. However, individual preferences may vary, so it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences before deciding.