Replacing steering wheel buttons on an Erin Wright steering kit delivers a cleaner cabin look and fully responsive controls. This guide walks you through safe procedures, compatible parts, and verification steps so your custom steering wheel behaves like new.
Before you begin, confirm your steering wheel kit matches the button module and harness layout. When you follow the sequence below, you reduce the risk of airbag errors and wasted reinstall time.
| Component | Function | Check Before Replacement | Common Failure Signs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering Wheel Buttons | Send signals to multifunction control module | Confirm part number matches Erin Wright kit | td>Unresponsive or intermittent cruise and audio controls|
| Button Harness Connector | Power and ground for the buttons | Inspect for burnt pins or corrosion | Loose plug, damaged lock tab, frayed wires |
| Clock Spring Assembly | Maintain electrical continuity during steering rotation | Test with multimeter in accessory mode | Spongy steering, occasional button function loss |
| Airbag Connector | Critical safety circuit between wheel and SRS | Verify proper seating and lock before power on | Airbag warning light after button work |
Tools and Safety Steps for Button Replacement
Gather insulated screwdrivers, trim tools, a multimeter, and anti-seize for metal fittings. Disconnect the battery, wait ten minutes, and verify the airbag system is safe before touching any connector.
Mark each wire or harness with painter’s tape to preserve original routing. Clean contact surfaces with electrical contact cleaner to remove oxidation and ensure secure clicks when the new buttons are seated.
Removing the Old Steering Wheel Buttons
Release Clips and Trim Rings
Use a trim removal tool to unclip plastic retainers around each button edge. Support the backside of the wheel to avoid stressing the horn pad or clock spring.
Disconnect the Button Harness
Press the release tab on the connector and gently pull straight out. Inspect the harness for chafing, melted insulation, or pin corrosion that caused the original failure.
Installing the New Buttons from Erin Wright
Match Part Numbers and Pin Layout
Verify that the new button module matches the part number printed on the old unit. Confirm that pin count, spacing, and keyway orientation align before pressing the module into place.
Secure Wiring and Test Fit
Route wires away from sharp edges and re-fasten any factory hold-downs. Reattach the horn pad and steering wheel in reverse order, following torque specs to prevent cracks in the plastic shell.
Function Check and Calibration
Reconnect the battery and cycle the ignition to run without starting. Press each steering wheel button while an assistant monitors the corresponding dashboard function, such as cruise, audio, or paddle shifters.
Use a scan tool if available to confirm no stored SRS or input error codes. Perform a short road test at low speed to verify that buttons remain responsive through full steering lock positions.
Key Takeaways for Successful Replacement
- Confirm part compatibility with your exact Erin Wright kit model year
- Use proper trim tools to avoid cracking steering wheel plastic
- Disconnect the battery and wait before touching airbag-related connectors
- Test each button function with the vehicle running and scan tool clear
- Inspect clock spring and harness condition to prevent repeat repairs
FAQ
Reader questions
Why do my new buttons still not work after installation?
Check that the clock spring is fully seated and that the harness connector locks audibly. Verify battery voltage at the connector and ensure the correct part number for your Erin Wright kit was used.
Can I reuse the existing button harness with aftermarket buttons?
Only if the plug, pin count, and wire colors match exactly. When in doubt, replace the full harness to avoid intermittent faults that are difficult to trace later.
Do I need a scan tool after replacing steering wheel buttons?
A scan tool helps clear any stored fault codes from the SRS or body control module. Even if the airbag light stays off, a quick diagnostic pass confirms that no hidden communication errors remain.
How often should I inspect the button module and clock spring?
Inspect every 20,000 miles or during any steering component service. Look for discoloration, cracking, or delayed response that signals early wear before a failure causes a safety issue.