ND (2016+) Mazda MX-5 Miata - How-To: Steering Wheel Install
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- čas přidán 23. 07. 2024
- Learn how to install an aftermarket steering wheel on an ND Mazda MX-5 Miata (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 Mazda Miata). There are quite a few aftermarket steering wheels available for our 2019 Mazda Miata RF project car, including Cipher, DAMD, Ken Style, Gun Grip, and Guardian Designs. Regardless of your choice of wheel, follow the complete multi-step install process to add a Mazda MX-5 Miata direct steering wheel replacement on your ND Miata project car. (CAUTION: Only if you feel capable!).
ND (2016+) Mazda Miata - Aftermarket Steering Wheel Options? - • ND (2016+) Mazda Miata...
(2016+) ND Mazda Miata - 7 Problems w/ the Miata! - • (2016+) ND Mazda Miata...
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Ken Style Leather Steering Wheel: amzn.to/2R9lCvc
Auto Trim / Moulding Removal Kits: amzn.to/2XexeAt
Steering Wheel Remover / Puller Kits: amzn.to/3rtLVfh
DISCLOSURE: This video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and purchase an item from Amazon (and/or others), I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows me to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
DISCLAIMER: Due to factors beyond the control of The Lemon Factor! (Chad), I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. The Lemon Factor! (Chad) assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. The Lemon Factor! (Chad) recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of The Lemon Factor! (Chad), no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not The Lemon Factor! (Chad). - Auta a dopravní prostředky
![Guardian Designs Steering Wheel Unboxing [Review & First Impressions]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/39AsurHMB-o/mqdefault.jpg)
Loosen the 21mm nut, wiggle the wheel until it pops off the splines, and THEN remove the nut.
What 2007MXV said. You don’t need to be as careful pulling it off.
Please don't stop the DIY projects! These videos are so helpful!!!
Thanks for the sub and positive comment - the support really means a lot! Anything in particular you'd like to see as a DIY?
Finally, a good DIY video for the ND steering wheel. Completely changes the look. Thanks!
... and feel.
Thank you so much for doing this! This video is absolutely lifesaver! Even the aftermarket steering wheel’s instruction book is not as helpful as this video!
Much love❤️❤️❤️
I’m so glad to hear that you found the video helpful 👍😁. Thanks for the watch and for leaving a positive comment 😁
Thanks again for this video. I just replaced my stock steering wheel with the Ken Style as well.
The hardest part was figuring out how to release the air bag springs. After that it was pretty much as expected.
The trim kit is a worthwhile investment. I am also glad that I have an impact tool. I don't think I could have gotten the old wheel off.
No problem! I’m glad to hear that it was helpful. What do you think about your new steering wheel?
@@TheLemonFactor I like it a lot, with the extra grip, and padding at the 10 and 2 positions. As you mentioned, it is what the car should have come with. With the flat bottom, and my being 6', I can drive with the wheel a bit lower as well.
It’s one of those mods you appreciate every time you get in the car. 😄
I've been looking forward to this video! Great content keep it up 👌👍👍
Thank you! I really appreciate the positive comments.
Great tutorial. Going to watch the steering wheel breakdown one now. Definitely feel better about changing mine now!! Great stuff!
Thank you! It’s a great mod that I appreciate every time I get in the car 👍
Awesome guide. Only part I needed was the removal a reinstall of the airbag but this video covered those steps more thoroughly than any other I’ve found.
Thank you! How did your install turn out? Are you happy with your new steering wheel?
Not strange, that’s the kind of stuff making us happy as the car is upgraded gradually.
Another awesome video. A new wheel is a dramatic improvement. Thanks Chad!
What aftermarket steering wheel are you considering, or have you already gotten one?
@@TheLemonFactor I went with the Kenstyle as well. Love the dual color stitching to match my grey stitching and also compliment some red accents I have on the car as well. May have to get a red tach faceplate now. Wheel contours are great. Thanks again for your videos!
Super helpful. I just finished my steering wheel replacement on my ND. Thanks a bunch. Ended up snapping one of the outside pins of the plastic electronic things. The second one I took more time and it worked great. Had to go borrow a steering wheel puller for mine, it was on their good.
I’m glad to hear that you found the video helpful 👍. I still find the aftermarket steering wheel to be my favorite mid 😁. How do you like yours?
Love it so far. I went with the Autoexe Sport. Much better feel and look.
👍. Happy New Year!🎊
Thanks, helped me a lot! I put the steering wheel in the oven for easier installation and removal of the plastic parts. 10 minutes at 50 °C/122 °F and everything went easy.
I’m glad the video was helpful with your install 👍. Using the oven is an interesting idea 🤔. What steering wheel did you install?
@@TheLemonFactor From zymexx the model "Performance". It has a combination of smooth leather and perforated black leather and is padded. It has thumb rests, a side modification (sport conversion), a 12 o'clock mark and a bottom flattening.
The stitching is red.
Sounds really nice 👍.
Thank you for your help, especially for the super well done video that I followed from a to z. Happy with the result! Best regards. Serge
I’m glad you found the video helpful and you’re satisfied with the results 👍. Which wheel did you install?
@@TheLemonFactor From CorkSport Performance with Alacantara insert
😁👍
Excellent video! Looks great! Thanks
Thank you for the watch and positive comment 👍. Is this something you’re considering?
Super good video thank you. I ordered mine, I may come back for advice. :)) From Quebec Canada
Thank you! It’s my favorite mod so far 😁 good luck with the install 👍
Super great video thought keep going!
Appreciate the positive comments 😁
Great video! I watched it twice before attempting the steering wheel replacement. I had some issues (a couple broken trim pieces and somehow I lost one of the horn springs) so mine is carrying over into a second day. However, I thought your video was first rate - it explained what to do is easy to follow steps. For me, the hardest part was the removal of the airbag module. I found the three holes easy enough, but somehow could not (easily) find the latch for the spring release. It took me about a half an hour of poking before I got it off.
Ouch! Well I’m glad you found the video helpful. I’ve broken my fair share of plastic molding tabs to know to take my time and don’t be too forceful - and yet it still happens sometimes 🤷♂️ Hopefully in the end you’ll love your new steering wheel - which one are you installing? Lastly, yes those spring bars are a PIA 😠. Good luck to you 👍
Thought I would mention my success since you and your video deserve all the credit... First, thank you! I would never have attempted ANYTHING near the airbag assembly were it not for this video. Suffice to say, my 2020 black RF Miata GT has a new Kenstyle perforated leather and carbon wheel (same as yours, but with the carbon top side, matches the Momo shift knob I installed). For newbs, watch it twice, then go for it! Be aware of the 3 servicing holes for the detent springs of the airbag/horn. They're under the three spokes of the steering wheel. All told, took me about 90 minutes because I was extremely careful. Plus, I was poking around with a small flathead screwdriver under the base of the horn for ten minutes before I realized the access holes were the place to be. Love the steering wheel quality, thickness (about a centimeter thicker, roughly 10% and VERY noticeable). Great video! Thanks again!
Johnny V.
Thank you! I greatly appreciate you taking the time to provide feedback - this is exactly why I'm doing these videos. I'm glad the video helped you feel confident enough to perform the install yourself. I'm really impressed by the new steering wheel. I would have to say it's my favorite mod to-date.
@@TheLemonFactor just an update... still loving my KenStyle wheel too. The ease of installation (thanks again), the fit, the quality, the feel. It also appears close to stock, and that works for me. I didn't want something that people instantly see as aftermarket unless they really know the stock Miata wheel. With more to grab, the new one changed the feeling of control more significantly than I expected, but it's exactly what I wanted.
Tip when removing the steering wheel, keep the bolt in loose so if you do yank it too hard it won't hit you
What fun is that.... actually, I really didn't think it was going to come out as easy as it did. Popped right off for me. Good tip for everyone else!
Very good, step by step, thanks!
Thank you for the positive comment 😁
Very good, detailed video.
Thank you for the watch and comment! 😁
Nice job. Good demo. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for your positive comment. Have or will you be upgrading your steering wheel?
@@TheLemonFactor I have not done the mod. I was interested in how complex it was to do. I was a little nervous for you when you were popping off the plastic trim pieces...
I was a little nervous too. Applying a little heat helps make the trim pieces a little easier to work with 👍
Thanks for the video and the great explanation in it. Now my decision has finally matured, to exchange the OEM steering wheel for another one and of course to assemble it myself. Greetings from Baden near Vienna, Austria.
Thank you, Mario! Nice to meet you from Vienna - hope you're enjoying your summer and having fun with your Miata. I still find that the upgrading steering wheel is the best modification I made to the Mazda Miata - you can enjoy it every time you drive the car!
Awesome walkthrough! Love how your video mentions the airbag fuse removal all other videos skipped this step and better be safe then sorry. Took me 45mim and got a new wheel on!
I’m glad to hear that the video was helpful 👍. What steering wheel did you go with?
@@TheLemonFactor I went with the Gaurdian Designs one. Half leather half Alacantra and square bottom and top. Super expensive I must say and took 3 months to get it but the quality is something out of a Porsche 911
Although I didn’t have one, I’ve seen them in person - they are very nice! 👍
just order mine! cant wait to install it!!
The best mod! Enjoy 👍
@@TheLemonFactor just got it today and I feel like it’s cheap leather returning it!..the stock 1 is way better!!
Totally disagree, but to each there own 🤷♂️
Will be doing the same on my 124, fingers crossed all the connections are the same so I can use your video as a guide!
Good luck. Hopefully you find the video helpful. It’s a great mod for our cars.
This was an expensive video to watch. It made me order a new steering wheel for my RF. ;o) You’ll hear from me again, when it is installed. Greetings from Denmark
Replacing the OE steering wheel was one of the best mods - I wish I had done it sooner! You notice it every time you get into the car. Good luck with the install.
@@TheLemonFactor Hi! Today I installed my new steering wheel along with a second, red Engine Start button attached to the trim of the wheel. It looks fantastic and thanks to you I managed to get through with it, but I suggest that you should put a warning into the video at around 19 minutes, where you mention the little carousel with the two pins, that has to fit too. If you accidentally push that thing sideways making it turn, it may brake the spring inside it, meaning that the electronics cannot find out the direction of the wheels, which will make the car pull e.g. to the right simply by the force of the electronics that act as a “power steering.” You can easily overcome this force, but you’ll have to buy a new carousel to get rid of the problem. (USD 300+)
I am impatiently looking forward to your next video.
Best wishes from Denmark, Klaus
I had the same peeve as you and changed to the same Kenstyle wheel too, along with the Kenstyle paddle shifters.
I absolutely love my new steering wheel - wish I had made the change sooner!
No need to worry about the negative battery wire touching the body, as that's ground. Just ensure the negative terminal is clear. No need to pull the fuse as the battery is disconnected.
Don't remove the nut before prying the steering wheel, just have it loose. Add the tape after loosening the wheel but before removing the nut.
The black inside of the wheel is a hardened rubber, so the trick is to ease the prongs out of the rubber - it's like losing your first teeth from gums.
You want the prongs to come out straight.
The outermost prongs of the side pods are most delicate, but you can actually get to these from behind the wheel- just push with a suitable tool and ease these out. Do a bit for this prong, then a bit for the other two, and keep repeating.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for the positive comment! 👍
That's a very nice wheel!!
Thank you! I’m really enjoying it 👍
Tip when removing the trim pieces from the wheel, warm the plastics up with a heat gun/hair drier, everything should just slip right out
I sure do wish I had read this comment before now. I broke three of the plastic retaining pins from the side trim pieces.
@@Rickh1234567 :(
Thanks for the video! Think I might replace my steering wheel when she's put up for the winter (planning on doing a few things to her when she's put away), as like you I'm not a fan of the OEM wheel.
Although a longish video, the actual install isn't overly complicated, and the results are great. I'm very happy with the feel, makes the car more sporty.
Many thanks for the fantastic DIY video for when I do my install in a few weeks! My GuardianDesigns Corsa 330 and matching shift boots and e-brake handle in Ghost Gray stitching (to match the Auburn Nappa stitching) are in progress. That Kenstyle looks great. How does the diameter compare to stock and how well does the stitching match up with the OEM interior?
Thank you for the watch and comment. The stitching is a different color than OEM, but not noticeable or a big deal to me. The diameter is either the same or ever so slightly smaller than stock (I'd have to go back and check).
That Kenstyle looks really comfortable and high quality. The customization is what pushed me to spend extra on the GD. The red stitching in our interior bugged me from day 1. Killing 2 birds with 1 stone.
Oh! I understand but I would have liked to have the tool especially for that. No problem, I'll find something. Thank you very much for your help, it's appreciated.
Of course. No problem. Good luck. 👍
Does anyone know the purpose or function of the 3 copper pins inserted in the steering wheel? They're visible t 5:45. The seem to match with pins on the airbag cartridge. Thanks.
It looks like they could be the contact point for horn activation but without getting a good look at the back of the airbag module I can't say for sure. I haven't done my wheel installation yet.
Update... Yes the copper pins are contacts for horn activation as they align with convex bumps in the aluminum framing of the airbag assembly.
I know you have moved on to other cars, but thanks for making this video
My pleasure! I’m glad to hear you found the video helpful - thank you for your supportive comment 😁👍
uh oh.. forgot to reinstall the horn springs! Great video though.. and I might just take this on!
Almost 2 years later, are you still happy with the wheel?
Just fyi the object you called the center piece is called a clock spring... that thing needs to stay in exactly the orientation you as when you took off the wheel in if you get it out of it will mess up a bunch of your electronic stuff on the column.
Good to know. Thanks for the information 👍
Do you know if this wheel will accommodate the paddle shifters from the OEM wheel? My MX-5 is an automatic.
I don't know for certain, but I don't see why it wouldn't. When researching steering wheels, the only thing I found noted as a differentiator when ordering was the model year of the car, there was no option between manual v. auto transmission. Your best bet would be to double check by emailing / calling the manufacturer.
Gotta say, the hardest part for me was actually installing the new wheel onto the steering shaft. It was just super snug after a couple mm of the splines. I was starting to get a bit nervous about the pressure I was needing to use on the outside edges of the wheel and eventually simply ensures the splines were engaged enough to turn the wheels and used the nut insert to fully seat the wheel. There was some grease on the splines from the manufacturer, but man I’ll for sure need a puller to get it back off as it’s effectively pressure fit now. Manufacturing tolerances are a thing though. My wheel is also unfortunately out of alignment with the splines
What brand wheel did you get?
Hello, what is the name of the tool to remove the air bag, and where did you buy it. I can't find it anywhere. Thank you
It's referenced at 6:54. It's called a steering wheel remover / puller. You usually can rent them at your local auto parts store. Or if you did want to buy one you can find some on Amazon - I've provided a link in the description.
how did you get the actual airbag off its not shown is there somewhere to stick my tool in to release the three spring clips and what tool do you need ?? on the earlier mk3 mx5 it was two 10mm bolts much simpler
David, I do cover this in the video, showing you the tool used, and the three holes in which you need to insert the tool into in order to push a lever that will release the airbag 👍
@@TheLemonFactor I managed to get it off yesterday it has to be the worst airbag removal design I have ever seen why oh why didn't they just use bolts like the mk3 !! airbag now off which is going to get reconditioned basically if you dont unclip the bottom one your stuffed because the airbag flips sideways mine now needs straightening out !!
Are the metallic looking pieces actually metal or are they a metallic looking plastic ... I think if I do this I might want to paint those parts a different color but would be helpful to know if they are actually metal or plastic to choose the correct paint?
If you’re referring to the steering wheel trim, then they are plastic.
where is the test drive video plz
Looks great! Are you familiar with any aftermarket steering wheels that you’re able to pull in and out. Adjust the steering position is what I’m trying to get at. Thanks again. Currently have a 2018ND
Thank you for the watch and comment 👍😁. Unfortunately I’m not aware of any aftermarket steering wheel that provides that level of adjustment. What you’re looking for is something that upgrades the steering column as well as the steering wheel 🤷♂️
@@TheLemonFactor thanks for the response. I’ve ordered the steering wheel you installed. Yea it’s a little tricky to do both.
I love the steering wheel - as you can imagine, it’s a mod you can appreciate every time you drive the car 😁
That tape method is just genius! I will definitely use your tape method on my install! How much torque did you set for the bolt?
30-36, didn't pay attention to that...
👍
How do you like the KenStyle wheel? Are you still enjoying it?
It was the best mod 👍
Awesome
Thank you.
Surely you have less room for your legs with the replacement steering wheel? The flat bottom looks fantastic, but is the height of the wheel the same as the OEM? Just looks as if the bottom extremity is extended. Perhaps I’m incorrect. Great video though 👍
The new steering wheel did not increase in size when compared to the OEM. It’s actually a little smaller 👍
Thanks very much for this video. It really helped me swap the wheel on my car (I went for a guardian Designs Corsa-D (which I'm really happy with)). After watching the video once, and then stepping through it as I dismantled the old wheel, the job was really easy. The video and narration are very clear and simple to follow. (I've got to ask though, did you forget to transfer the horn springs? The notes about them seem added on and the springs are not fitted when you put the airbag back. ;) )
I found poking my screwdriver through the three holes to push the airbag release springs a little awkward but not difficult. Despite the clear shot of them on the removed airbag in the video, it was just a bit tricky to get my screwdriver on to them without really being able to see where they were on the actual car. Now that I have seen how it all fits together myself, I see that those springs locate on the three posts that also have the horn springs on them, so that makes it much easier to visualise what is going on inside the boss when pushing on the spring ends. It'll be much easier if I ever need to do it again.
The advice to use trim removal tools is definitely good. There are quite a few bits that could easily be scored, scratched or otherwise damaged by screwdrivers (etc).
For what it's worth, I did need to use a steering wheel puller (as mentioned in the video, it is likely to be situational). I actually had to crank the puller quite a bit and, judging by the way the wheel popped off, there would have been no way I would have got it off without the puller. Fortunately, I already had one.
My car only has one airbag connection on the back (in addition to the earth). It has one yellow one right in the middle rather than the yellow and orange ones beside each other (as per the video). The removal procedure was the same though (black plastic retaining clip etc).
I agree with the order of taking things apart (chrome ring, black plastic, then control pods). One additional tip is that once the black plastic is off, you can see slots on either side where the heads of two of the pins (on either side) for the control pods push through. Unfortunately, the slots are for the two easier to remove pins but it does mean that you can push a trim removal tool into the slots from the back and push those pins forward and out. Once they have started moving, the bigger, rounder and tougher pin becomes easier to move too.
All in all it's not a difficult job but it was made even easier, and I was able to tackle it with confidence, thanks to this video.
Great notes, I'm sure others will find them informative. And, good catch re: the springs... although as you pointed out, the video does call it out, only the video of the transfer wasn't captured. Glad you found it helpful. I'm sure you're loving your Guardian Designs steering wheel - I've heard that they are high quality pieces.
After 1 year are you still happy with this wheel?
I love it, still the best mod to-date. Something you appreciate every time you get into the car 👍😁
Great video. I wish you would have stacked them when you did the comparison so we could see the difference in profile better.
Good feedback, I'll keep that in mind for next time.
@@TheLemonFactor thanks, hopefully there won't be a next time for the steering wheel.
Unless I get crazy and want to customize the steering wheel to match a new exterior color ; )
@@TheLemonFactor out of control!
Does this steering wheel work with NDs with auto transmission and pedal shifters?
Yes, there should be no difference.
The Lemon Factor! Great. Thanks! And great video!
Do you break the vehicle guarantee by doing this ?
In the U.S., only if the dealer can prove / legitimately argue that whatever the problem that they are refusing to cover under warranty was caused by the change you made.
Is this a 2017 launch edition model?
It’s a 2019 RF Touring GTS.
How do you like this steering wheel after a year? I'm thinking of getting the same one!
I absolutely love it! I was out for a drive today and was thinking about how much I like it. Highly recommended 👍
@@TheLemonFactor Thanks for the reply. I was already leaning towards getting this one but now i've made up my mind! I'll be coming back to this vid for the installation too!
Good luck with the install 👍
Did your wheel end up being slightly off center?
Nope, it was lined up perfectly just the way the OE steering wheel was. The addition of the electrical tape while simple proved to be very helpful in ensuring that I had the new wheel on straight.
Wait! I did not see you put the horn springs back on!
Slight of hand... Seriously though, it's referenced at 18:22 as part of the steps, but I didn't actually film the transfer as I caught my miss later on.
The Lemon Factor! OK, I am about to change my 16LE wheel this weekend and didn’t want to miss a step! Your video really helped me build the “courage” to do this!
Is it real leather or leatherette on Kenstyle?
Real leather
What aftermarket steering wheel does everyone have?
I have GuardianDesigns in my NC and NA.
Chad, been waiting for this video for a while. Nice to see that you went with the KenStyle steering wheel. I forgot to mention that I had to get a wheel alignment cause the splines did not fully match with the OEM, they were slightly off, but nothing that a wheel alignment can't fix. Also, your right about Covid-19 interfering with the shipping cause I got my steering wheel in less than 8-9 days. Anyways good to see another ND2 with the KenStyle steering wheel. Cant wait for the comparison vid of the GWR and Greddy, I'm leaning more towards the GWR.
Guardian Designs
I'm really happy with it. And as you see in the video, mine centered perfectly. I've been waiting on other parts too (for both cars) and some still haven't shipped weeks later. I've been harassing my dyno guy, but they're still not open. We're supposed to hear I believe next week from the gov of MA whether we go to the next phase of businesses reopening - hopefully I'll be able to get it in soon!
@2007MXV Which model?
(Are you referring to 3:24 of the video?) Yes, exactly that. ;)
The tool I used came with the steering wheel, but all you really need is something that fits through the side holes as all your doing is pushing in on the three metal bars (one for each hole) to release the airbag module. A screwdriver or punch should work. 👍
Still not clear on what happened to the horn springs....
What’s your question? There’s a reference in the video stating at what point you should install the springs.
@@TheLemonFactor At 14:41 the audio cuts out....you have your arrows pointing to the horn springs...then an ad runs...after which you're unpacking the new KS wheel. At 17:01 the springs are still on the old wheel as you talk about the new wheel, at 18:31 you say to transfer the springs, but at 18:53....no springs, at 21:32 you pop back in the airbag....still no springs....hence my confusion. Otherwise, great video.
Sorry for the confusion. You transfer the springs at the same time you transfer all the other OE components from the old wheel to the new wheel. This was unfortunately not caught on film as I didn’t do the transfer until much later than I should have.
@@TheLemonFactor Thanks.....figured it all out....toughest part was getting the airbag off, everything else was fine, including moving the horn springs. A note for anyone with an MX-5 with an AT transmission....before removing the black plastic rear piece from the OEM wheel, there are four (two on each side) Phillips screws to be removed, otherwise, everything else is the same.
Man... you look like Bruce Willis!
… isn’t Bruce Willis bald? 🤔
@@TheLemonFactor Maybe... but in this video you are wearing a cup and we can all forget about that detail 😂
😂👍
You forgot the horn springs!
Messed up the filming of them, but it's part of the instructions in the final video
Think the stock looks better which just reflects everyone has an opinion.
Exactly... the great thing is that there are plenty of choices to fit your individual needs and wants.
I agree. I don't get flat bottomed steering wheels. Soon as you turn it you have an annoying corner! Very good video though, fun to watch!
You should have just gone with the better looking FIAT 124 spider and you wouldn't have wanted to change anything!
21:30 I think you made the same mistake I made, which is forgetting to slide back on the springs that keep the airbag module pushed out (and the horn de-activated). Guess you ended the video before you actually tested it, but you would've gotten the rude awakening of the horn going off as soon as you reconnect the battery. The module itself also moves way too much without the springs in place (as you can see in my video: czcams.com/video/gNj8tTkUgto/video.html ). I didn't figure out what I was missing until I went to the forums.
Although I missed the filming of the install of the springs (caught it at the end ; ), I do have it fully noted as part of the install process as you can see at 18:22.
"Stupid Flanders" - love the name!
This is too much for this car.I dont like this.
It's one of my favorite mods so far... I love getting in to drive feeling that contoured steering wheel ; )