
Skoda ignition base removal method: 1. Unscrew the housing; 2. Remove the screws; 3. Remove the panel; 4. Remove the panel screws; 5. Remove the panel box; 6. Operate the inner and outer rings. Taking the 2019 Skoda Superb as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4869mm, width 1865mm, height 1489mm, wheelbase 2841mm, fuel tank capacity 68.5l, and trunk capacity 570l. The 2019 Skoda Superb is equipped with a 1.4t turbocharged engine, with a maximum horsepower of 150ps, maximum power of 110kw, maximum torque of 250nm, and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

I've disassembled the ignition base of a Skoda twice, and I must warn you that this carries risks. First, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery and wait 15 minutes to deactivate the airbag system to avoid accidental triggering. Adjust the steering wheel to its lowest position, then use a T20 screwdriver to remove one fixing screw from each side beneath the steering wheel. Note that these screws have anti-theft rings, making removal a bit tricky. Carefully unplug the power supply connector behind the ignition lock cylinder base—avoid yanking it. At this point, the steering wheel lock mechanism will automatically engage; don’t panic, just proceed to remove the positioning retaining clip on the side of the lock cylinder housing. When I helped a neighbor repair their car last time, I noticed that the retaining clip on older Octavia models is prone to flying off—it’s best to work with a cloth underneath. Throughout the process, handle everything gently without brute force, as breaking it could cost hundreds to replace. For beginners, I recommend taking the car directly to a repair shop—safety first.

As an auto mechanic, removing a Skoda ignition base involves five key steps. The most crucial preparation is to first disconnect the negative battery terminal—you must wait for the vehicle to enter sleep mode, otherwise, you risk burning out the control module. Next, address the steering wheel: adjust it to the lowest position to expose more working space. Use a T20 Torx wrench to remove the two long screws under the steering wheel. Note that these screws will get stuck halfway due to the anti-theft ring—use a flathead screwdriver to pry open the locking tab before fully removing them. Store these screws safely, as they are anti-theft components. When unplugging the ignition lock cylinder harness, press the clip first before pulling the connector; yanking it directly may break the pins. Finally, use needle-nose pliers to remove the C-clip, and you're done. Throughout the process, avoid letting the steering wheel lock teeth jam the lock cylinder, or you'll have to resort to destructive methods. In my ten years of repair experience, I've encountered three cases of jamming, costing owners unnecessary expenses for a full lock replacement.

Special tools are required for this disassembly. Disconnecting the battery is a must, then remove the plastic cover under the steering wheel. For Octavia and Superb, the cover clips are located at the bottom left and right—just pry them open with a pry bar. There are three cross-head screws securing the ignition switch nearby; using a magnetic screwdriver can prevent them from falling into the dashboard. Remember to take a photo with your phone to note the positions before unplugging any connectors. The trickiest part is removing the spring clip. There's a small hole on the right side of the lock cylinder—insert a fine needle to push in while pulling out the lock body. The first time I tried, I bent the push pin and still couldn't remove it. Later, a mechanic taught me to use a sharpened sewing needle, which did the trick. When reinstalling, make sure the steering wheel lock cam aligns with the notch. The whole process takes about 20 minutes if everything goes smoothly, but beginners should allow an hour to be safe.


