How to Remove the Focus Steering Wheel?
3 Answers
Method for removing the Focus steering wheel: 1. Lower the steering wheel adjustment switch and remove the rubber cover behind the steering wheel; 2. Remove the airbag, disconnect the yellow plug at the bottom of the airbag, and also disconnect the ground wire; 3. When removing the steering wheel, first remove the horn contact ring, use a 24mm socket to directly unscrew the large central bolt, and the steering wheel removal is complete. The Ford Focus is an A-segment family car. As a best-selling compact car under Ford, it has enhanced Ford's brand position in the global market with its excellent chassis and handling. In terms of body dimensions, the Focus measures 4404mm in length, 1810mm in width, and 1454mm in height.
I just helped a friend remove the steering wheel from his Focus a couple of days ago. The key is to disconnect the battery first to prevent airbag deployment. Start by moving the driver's seat all the way back, then disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 15 minutes for the system to discharge. Next, get down and look under the steering wheel - there are small holes on both sides. Insert a flathead screwdriver until you feel the spring clips release, and the airbag cover will pop up. Don't yank it directly; gently flip the cover open and disconnect the yellow airbag wiring harness connector. Then use a 19mm socket to loosen the large center nut, but don't remove it completely - leave about two threads as a safety measure. Now grip the steering wheel, wiggle it side to side while pulling upwards, and a rubber mallet can help tap the shaft for easier removal. When disconnecting the multifunction button wiring harness, I recommend taking a photo of the connector positions with your phone to avoid mixing them up later. Be extra careful with the clock spring - don't let it rotate freely, or your turn signals won't self-cancel properly when reassembling.
When it comes to removing the Focus steering wheel, my top concern is handling the airbag safely. First, you must disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for at least ten minutes to allow the airbag system to fully discharge. To remove the airbag cover, locate the clip holes on both sides at the back of the steering wheel and use a thin steel rod to insert and simultaneously release both spring clips for the safest approach. Before unplugging the airbag wiring harness connector, press down the plastic lock; pulling it hard might break the clip. The central steering shaft fixing nut has a torque of 45 Nm, and after removal, use a marker to draw alignment marks on the shaft and steering wheel. When actually pulling it off, brace your knees against the seat for leverage—sudden release could strain your back. Finally, it's best to label the multifunction button connectors for identification; even a five-degree misalignment when reinstalling can affect the wheel alignment parameters.
