What is the method for disassembling and assembling the Volkswagen Magotan steering wheel?
4 Answers
Volkswagen Magotan steering wheel disassembly and assembly method is: 1. Disconnect the battery; 2. Rotate the steering wheel approximately 90 degrees; 3. Insert a flat-head screwdriver from front to back into the hole behind the steering wheel; 4. Insert the screwdriver head between the retaining spring and airbag hook, use skillful force to lift the spring away from the hook, and the airbag side will automatically pop out toward the seat direction; 5. Rotate the steering wheel 180 degrees and continue to disengage the retaining spring; 6. Remove the airbag and disengage the yellow safety buckle behind it, then unplug the airbag connector to remove the airbag; 7. Unplug the airbag clock spring connector located above inside the steering wheel; 8. Use an M12 spline to loosen the center fixing bolt of the steering wheel counterclockwise; 9. Remove the steering wheel. The Volkswagen Magotan body dimensions are: length 4865mm, width 1832mm, height 1471mm, wheelbase 2871mm, and fuel tank capacity 66 liters.
I once disassembled the steering wheel of my Volkswagen Magotan myself to replace the horn button. First, you need to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery and wait for about ten minutes to deactivate the airbag system to avoid accidents. Then, the airbag cover in the center of the steering wheel is secured with clips or small screws—use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry it open, being careful not to scratch the cover. Inside, you’ll find the screws that hold the steering wheel in place, usually with a hex head, which can be removed using a T25 wrench. Next, unplug the airbag connector and the horn wires, handling these connectors gently to avoid breaking the pins. Sometimes the steering wheel is tightly fitted, but a slight wiggle should loosen it. Avoid working with live electrical connections and have your tools ready—I once forgot to disconnect the battery, and the airbag warning light came on, forcing me to make an extra trip to the repair shop to clear the code. For beginners, it’s advisable to have a helper or just take it to a 4S shop—it’s worth the cost compared to the hassle.
As a car enthusiast, let me share some practical tips. When removing the steering wheel, safety comes first: always disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait for the system to power down before starting, to avoid accidental airbag deployment. The steps include prying open the airbag cover with tools (the Volkswagen Magotan often has clips), being careful not to pull the wires when removing the airbag; then unscrew the fixing bolt, usually the central one, using a standard wrench; when disconnecting the connectors, remember their positions to avoid reversing them, such as the airbag plug and horn plug; if the steering wheel doesn't come off easily, don't force it—use a professional puller or gently wiggle it side to side. Make sure you have all the necessary tools ready—screwdrivers, wrenches, etc. I've done it twice myself and found it quite manageable, but be warned: the airbag system is sensitive, and if damaged, repairs could cost you thousands.
To be honest, removing the steering wheel carries some risks. From the manual and personal experience: You must disconnect the battery negative terminal and wait for the airbag to discharge completely; then pry open the airbag cover to check if it's a screw or clip structure; next, loosen the steering wheel fixing screw and unplug the electrical connector; finally, remove it and install the new part by reversing the steps. But I advise against DIY—airbag issues can easily lead to accidents. A repair shop can get it done in less than half an hour.
