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Hi:
I'm driving a 2012 glk 350. I really don't like the cheap plastic feel of the old steering wheel so i want to change on if possible. May i use a steering wheel from 2013 or newer model?
I understand the need for updating your steering wheel. You may want to consider an AMG style retrofit, or retrofitting it with wood inserts to match your interior trim. Maybe it will be a factory option on the upcoming model.
There have been postings here about upgrading to the "C" Class wheel, possibly the AMG wheel, so do a search.
But C class and GLK class is totally different. I tried to ask dealership to install a steering wheel taken down form a CLS and they refused to do that. So how should i resolve about the compatibility issue?
Since your wheel has multi-controls - and airbag - frankly those are the over riding considerations - and for your earlier model GLK - I do not have any personal experience for a "swappable" unit.
When I had my 2011 GLK I swapped my 09 c-class steering wheel with it and it worked (except for the paddle shifter as my w204 is not coded with paddle shifter) as the 2 steering wheel is basically the same. Since you have the 2012 any pre-facelift W204 or X204 steering wheel will be a direct swap. Now if you are swapping a new steering wheel that is coming from a face-lift model then you might need to do some chip swapping and re-wiring of wires to get the lights of the facelift model steering wheel to work but I guarantee that all of the buttons will work except for the lights. You will also need a new airbag if you want the facelift wheel. Do a search on the W204 forum and you will find tons of info regarding steering wheel swap.
I know there are tons of nice deals for steering wheels on ebay. It's just some technical problem that workshops or technicians do not want to deal with.
I know there are tons of nice deals for steering wheels on ebay. It's just some technical problem that workshops or technicians do not want to deal with.
... and don't forget idiots who think that a $200 steering wheel off eBay (that costs $12 to make in China and will shatter or collapse the moment you hit something at more than 12 mph) is perfectly safe and OK.
That is redicules...Just disconect the battery and use anti static in you wrist and your secure. I have done this for 15 years and I dont even disconect the battery...
Full Detailed Progress:
1) Acquire a steering wheel/airbag of your choice from a newer model.
Recommended Seller on ebay: http://www.ebay.ca/usr/zh.k?_trksid=p2047675.l2559
2) Disconnect the NEGATIVE terminal on the battery, and place a towel or something in between so they don't touch. Also place your key far from the car for good measure.
You will need a wrench with a socket set to loosen the screws.
3) Remove the old steering wheel.
Using a T25 torx key, loosen the two screws on the back of your original wheel as shown in the picture. In my experience, T30 torx key works better.
Once the torx screws are fully loose, the airbag will simply fall out. Disconnect the 4 plugs with a small flathead screwdriver or your tiny fingers.
Once airbag is removed and out of the way, use a M10 allen key or same sized socket wrench tool to loosen steering wheel bolt. You will likely need a breaker bar for leverage, it's on there tight.
I got the breaker bar from local Canadian Tire. Cost me around CAD50.
4) Install the facelift steering wheel.
Place the new wheel onto the steering column, making sure to line up the upper/lower marks so that your wheel is straight. Using the M10 allen key again, put the steering wheel bolt back in place and tighten (not sure of exact torque rating, may want to re-apply some loctite as well).
Plug the maroon and yellow plugs from the new wheel into the steering column, just as you removed them from the old one. The then airbag simply pops into the wheel when you press it. Everything is plug and plug, does not require any wiring.
5) Reconnect the battery and enjoy your new steering wheel!
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