Corolla 2001 Steering Wheel - Toyota Corolla, Chevy Prizm (1998-2008)

Guest Rich0

Hi Everybody

A few months ago the foam material of the wheel started to come loose from the internal ring. Now the "skin" is peeling off.

The dealer is asking $600 for a new wheel, but I would like to find a cheaper solution.

Can anybody suggest a solution that goes beyond a new skin? It would solve the peeling problem , but would still be loose iniside. It's anoying to drive with it.

Was told it's possible to get a used one from a junkyard, but have not been able to find one nearby. Also, Is it too difficult to change it? Something that goes beyond the use of a puller? I know the airbag might be an issue, but believe there should be connectors inside. Any hint?

Thanks,

Rich

Should be able to find one from a salvage yard. Might try some online retailers that specialize in import parts. Most of the cost from the dealership is in the airbag - kind of weird that they can't just sell you the wheel itself minus the bag (probably a safety thing).

The airbag will have a special lock on the connector - but you should be able to get it apart (yellow connector). Just make sure that you disconnect the battery for a while before you do it - or you'll get an airbag in your face. Once the airbag is off - probably a matter of removing the center nut and pulling the wheel off.

Probably be a good investment to get the factory service manual on this - as there might be wiring issues that don't show in a Haynes or Chilton manual.

Good Luck.