07 Steering wheel on a 2004 Liberty

[damindaw]

Hi,

Just want to find out if a steering wheel out of a 2007 liberty would fit the pre-facelift 2004 model?

Thanks

[HyRax]

I don't see why not, but I think you may potentially have a greater issue with the electrical side of it (for the steering wheel controls) as various plugs around the car did evolve a little between pre and post facelift. The airbag itself will likely connect right up, however. I base that on when I installed pre-facelift leather seats into my post-facelift car. Airbag plugs were identical and only the electrical seat connector was physically different requiring me to fashion an adapter.

I'd see if you can score a blown airbag wheel cheap from a wrecker and then pull yours off to compare. If you're really lucky, the airbag component itself might be identical and you might be able to directly swap it over onto the new wheel.

Usual disclaimer - playing with your airbag is dangerous/expensive if it goes off. Remember to disconnect the battery for at least 15-20 minutes before you begin any dismantling work.

[ndlibgt]

Think I saw this done, do a search on Legacygt forum (sorry would post link but I'm on the road)

[dr20t]

It's possible but requires ALOT of work

I tried this and after about 6 hours I thought better of it.

The airbag is probably the easiest thing - this bolts straight up, but its the remaining wiring harness that's a pain.

Here is what is required:

- wheel (obliviously)
- the centre spring clock
- wiring harness needs to be changed over / spliced as the prefacelift is different; OR
- you can swap entire steering column over and use the wiring that

Pros:
- nice looking wheel with thicker surround
- option for steering wheel controls
- paddle shift if auto

Cons:
- larger and heavier than the 04 wheel
- wiring if modified can never really be returned back to stock
- reliability once you've played with original wiring setup etc

Mick

[bigBADbenny]

The cruise buttons, SWC'c etc. and mounts are very different.
The airbag connectors are different. Dual vs single stage.
Better off using a preFL STi, PROVA, DAMD, K2 or GTspec steering wheel.
The aftermarket items all feature a smaller diameter rim.
Visually, the primary identifier is preFL = 1 tab below the hub for attaching the cruise etc. controls vs. 2 tabs on postFL.
Airbag delete QR hubs are available for e.g. track cars.
Another option is to get your steering wheel shaved for slightly less diameter, repadded and rewrapped by an automotive trimmer or DIY that.

[swingn]

I wanted to do the same, but was put in the too hard basket.

Why do you want the newer wheel anyway? If it's for the paddles, there are after market (Which look better) options out there & you can get some fantastic after market steering wheels as well.

Have a chat to Garage 88 as they should be able to sort you out with no dramas

[damindaw]

Thanks for the response everyone! Really appreciate it

I think i will go for an after market wheel