Here’s a complete DIY guide for swapping out the stock Element steering wheel for a leather one from a Honda Pilot.

I found my Pilot steering wheel on eBay. I looked at various parts sources on the Internet and concluded that eBay is much cheaper. I got my wheel for $35 plus shipping but since you could pay $150 or more through an Internet dealer anything under $75 seems like a pretty good deal to me.

This is a simple job if you have the right tools and have a modest amount mechanical ability. Do not attempt this mod if you do not have the proper tools. You will need the following…

1/4” drive ratchet and extension
3/8” drive ratchet and extension
1/4” drive Torx T30 socket bit (for 2 airbag bolts)
1/4” drive Torx T40 socket bit (for 4 horn plate bolts)
3/8” drive 14mm socket (for steering wheel bolt)
Philips head screwdriver (for various trim pieces)Once you have the proper tools, make sure you’ll be working in a well lit area. The whole process takes about 30 minutes if you take your time and follow these instructions precisely. Let’s begin.

Step 1: Turn off the horn!

When you remove the two airbag bolts the horn will sound unless you do something about it first. All you have to do is open the hood, find the fuse box on the driver’s side near the battery and squeeze the four tabs together to take the lid off. Once the lid is off, find the 15 amp fuse for the horn and remove it. There is a fuse puller right inside the box for this purpose. See the diagram below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_00.jpg

Step 2: Remove the airbag bolts

Get out your 1/4” drive ratchet and extension and snap on the Torx T30 bit. Take out one bolt on each side of the airbag. Extract the bolts from the holes and put them in a safe place. See the picture below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_01.jpg

Step 3: Remove the airbag

In order to remove the airbag once the bolts are removed carefully pull it towards you until you can reach behind the airbag and disconnect the large yellow wire clip. Set the airbag aside. See the picture below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_02.jpg

Step 4: Take a good look!
Make a mental note, or a drawing, or use the picture below to remember how things are laid out at this point. This is important since you’ll need to put things back exactly this way when done.

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_03.jpg

Step 5: Prepare to remove the steering wheel

Make sure the wheel is straight. Disconnect the black wire clip on the left and the green wire clip on the right. Get out your 3/8” drive ratchet and extension and snap on the 14mm socket. Remove the center bolt. Put the bolt in a safe place. See the picture below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_04.jpg

Step 6: Remove the steering wheel

Again, be sure wheel is straight. Gently but firmly pull the wheel towards you with a left-to-right rocking motion. As you pull the wheel off be careful not to catch the wire clips on the steering wheel as they pass through the center hole! After removal, let the wires dangle freely. IMPORTANT: Do not touch or spin the white airbag plate on the column! More info on this issue here (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=28679&highlight=#28679).

...continued from previous post.

Step 7: Begin swapping over steering wheel components

1. Remove the two plastic side brackets on the front of the steering wheel using your Philips head screw driver. There are two screws for each piece. Set them aside in a safe place.
2. Remove the four gold bolts on the horn plate by using your 1/4” drive ratchet and extension with a Torx T40 bit. Lift plate off with bolts intact being careful to also take the springs with it.
3. Remove the large plastic back trim cover from the steering wheel by removing four Philips head screws. Transfer the back trim cover over to the new steering wheel and secure all four screws. Do not over tighten.
4. Remove the two Philips head screws in the counter weight and transfer to the new steering wheel.
5. Transfer springs, and horn plate with bolts over to the new steering wheel and secure bolts tightly but do not over tighten.
6. Transfer the two plastic side brackets over to the new steering wheel, securing them with 4 Philips head screws. Do not over tighten.

Before:
http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_06.jpg

After:
http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_07.jpg

Step 8: Install the new steering wheel

1. Route the three wires through the rectangular opening underneath the steering wheel bolt hole.
2. Align wheel and white airbag plate so that they are straight and centered with two side posts and push the wheel firmly on to the post. Check for straightness before proceeding. Repeat procedure if necessary if wheel is off center.
3. Replace and secure 14mm steering wheel center bolt.
4. Connect and route all wires exactly as shown in the picture on step 4.
5. Connect airbag wire clip and reinstall airbag with the two Torx T30 bolts from step 2.
6. Reinstall horn fuse as shown in step 1. Test horn. Reinstall fuse puller and secure fuse box lid. Close hood.

Almost done…
http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_08.jpg

Installation is complete!

Here is a picture of the finished project…
http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_09.jpg

Well documented!
Thanks!

Well done! I would only add disconnecting the negative battery cable before doing anything. Sometimes disconnecting the airbag sets an error in the airbage computer, and you'll need a trip to the dealer to reset it.

Taking the negative cable off in place of removing the horn fuse is not a bad idea. As far as the warning light coming on though, I believe this will only happen if you switch the ignition on while the airbag is removed. The internal computer always does a check for the airbag at startup and if it's not there the computer flags it.

Two questions:
How do you like the new wheel?

What are the Pilot people swapping into their vehicles that is making their steering wheels pop up for sale?

(BTW, great tutorial - you are a great asset to the club)

[quote:89d7cbeb21="Slowhand"]What are the Pilot people swapping into their vehicles that is making their steering wheels pop up for sale?[/quote:89d7cbeb21]

Strangely enough, Element steering wheels. ;)

Two questions:
How do you like the new wheel?

What are the Pilot people swapping into their vehicles that is making their steering wheels pop up for sale?


On the feel: I love it. It's buttery soft and it has the right thickness.

On the wheel availability - ya know, I have no idea how people are getting their hands on these at such a price - mine was new in the honda parts box so it wasn't a swap-out. Like I've said before, you can spend $150 or better on this from any parts dealer. I can't imagine how much the actual dealer cost is but I can't imagine its less than what I paid!?!

I feel lucky to have gotten my hands on this (no pun intended) for the price that I did. It makes driving my E just a little more enjoyable.

And BTW, thank you for the compliment - remember, the best Element content is right here at elementownersclub.com!

My dealer told me that the leather wheels are the swap outs from the folks that get the wood wheel. Maybe Honda ships the Pilots with the wheel not installed, as the one I got off Ebay was in a Honda box as well.

Oh right, come to think of it there IS a wood steering wheel for the Pilot too. They must be the leftovers from that option.

The box is probably from the wood steering wheel that gets shipped to the dealer.

Thanks for all the detail steps. I do like the look of the Pilot leather steering wheel.

There are 2 of them on eBay right now.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33704&item=2423966666
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33704&item=2424328003

Just writing to say "Thanks eMass!" for the excellent guide to swapping the steering wheel for the Pilot leather wheel. I went real slow and it took all of 45 minutes. Had a brief worry when I noticed that it was making a light rubbing noise while turning. Thought it was a wire or the SRS cable that was awry. Got home and was about to take the airbag off to examine more closely and noticed that the small rectangular cover on the underside of the back wasn't installed properly. Reinstalled it, and the sound is gone.
I printed your guide and had it at the E with me. Very helpful.

For anyone contemplating doing this, I encourage you to not wait. The leather wheel is exactly the same as the standard steering wheel in every dimension and looks exactly the same installed - except you'll be enjoying fine leather. The leather wheel feels s-o-o-o good.

So I'm thinking "the Pilot has a wood wheel that fits the Element? Smoooth."

So then I'm thinking, "the leather wheels are $30 to $40, so wood can't be much more, right?"

WRONGO Check this out: http://www.cheaphondaparts.com/shop/productdetail.asp?SID=1&Category_ID=43&Product_ID=252

Holy Moly! :shock:

Wowee! I was thinking the same thing. That quite a difference in price.

Emass, I don't see much of the air bag in the pictures you posted. Can yu speak to how delicately it has to be handled? Does it come out nicely but itself or flop about?

I just placed it on the passenger side seat. It comes out very easily once the two bolts are out. I handled it pretty delicately just to be safe.

You can see it a little in the picture on step 8.

Hmm, still a little reluctant to play with the air bag by myself. I may look into getting friendly mechanic to do this if I get the new steering wheel.

Hi Iskie,

I appreciate your eye for safety but there really is no way you can set off the airbag without an extremely specific sequence of events that happen within milliseconds involving multiple sensors plus the car needs to be in motion, engine running, etc, etc. :D

Think about it - if the airbag were so sensitive that you had to handle it like a live grenade would they allow every driver to push on it as a horn button? :?

If it's so electrically sensitive that it can't be disconnected without going off, how many honda techs do you think are willing to work on them? :shock:

If you're still concerned, the best way to protect yourself would be to disconnect the battery before you begin. The probability of the airbag popping for no reason at all after that is probably about one in 900 Trillion. :lol:

Looks like a lot of people are interested in doing the swap out, perhaps as a result of this step by step. The price of a Pilot Steering wheel on Ebay has about doubled :(

That's supply and demand 101 for ya! But even at $75 it's still a good deal IMHO. :D

Yes and a tribute to your instructions. I think you may have inspired a bunch of people to try it.

* Hehe - everyone! Don't do this! Leather bad! I lost control of my vehicle! The airbag went off and broke my nose! They're all gonna laugh at you! :lol:

(just doing my part to help drive down the market price of leather pilot steering wheels)

*I'm kidding!

Come to think of it though, as people buy their Elements, they should be asking their dealerships to throw this in as a freebie! They're bound to have leftovers! :D

I am more concerned about damaging the air bag. I have been a bit hamfisted in installing some things. I would hate to think of breaking or puncturing the air bag. Which is why I was hoping to see a picture of it.

IskiE,
Wish I'd taken a photo of my airbag when it was off so I could show you. It is a sturdy self-contained unit that doesn't appear to be at all fragile. I think the most worrisome part of the whole operation is the SRS reel on the steering shaft just under the airbag. One person (on this or another forum) screwed their's up accidentally and ended up paying $160 to have it fixed. When I did mine I tried to be very careful to not even touch the darned thing. I did touch it though, and it appears to be loose on the steering shaft, rotating freely.
Not to scare you off - it is really, really easy to do and you'll be very proud of the work you've done afterward. Just be extra careful around the reel.
I'm a reluctant mechanic, so if I could do it in 45 minutes I suspect anyone could do it in under an hour.

When I first started reading about the Pilot steering wheels, they were selling for about $40 on Ebay.

Lost two auctions ending in the $70's. Finally won one this morning; $78.50 not including shipping.

I'm sure I've been competing against other EOC members. Too bad there's not enough supply out there that we could all get one for a decent price.

I hope my wife doesn't notice I've got a new steering wheel all of a sudden. I've already spent some bucks on accessories.

eKennedy

Perhaps you can provide pictures of the air bag assembly and SRS reel for us?

Just did my steering wheel. Had some problems with the SRS ribbon cable, but everything ended up ok. Also had to reinstall the whole wheel twice to get it straight. I hadn't realized at first that there are tick marks you can line up to make sure the wheel is oriented correctly.

Anyway, here are the pics of the airbag and SRS plate.
http://www.kennedy.us/element/srs_front.jpg
http://www.kennedy.us/element/srs_back.jpg
Note the "EXPLOSIVE" warning...
http://www.kennedy.us/element/srsplate.jpg
If this happens to fall out like mine did, when you re-roll it, make sure you leave enough slack to give it at least two full turns to the right before it binds. I know this from experience :wink:
http://www.kennedy.us/element/srsplate_open.jpg
It just sits in there, and falls out quite easily if you pull on the wire harnesses at all. Be very careful when you pull the old steering wheel off, and also when you grab the wires to reconnect them.

eKennedy

OK, I've made contact with a guy here in Maryland who has access to the take-off Pilot wheels. He sold me one for a very reasonable price. His Email addy is targetpractice97@comcast.net - he goes by "RT". I'm not trying to drum up business for this guy, I'm just trying to let you guys know of source to get these without having to spend 80+. I'm not connected to this guy in any way other than winning an Ebay auction for the wheel.

Have any of you guys had to use a steering wheel puller or torque wrench for doing this? I can get these loaner tools for free at the local parts store.

Why are there extra Pilot Steering Wheels laying around? Is there an upgrade for the Pilot that leaves people with their OEM Leather one?

Exactly. There is a wood wheel that gets automatically included with one of the Pilot trim packages. The dealer pulls off the standard leather wheel and replaces it for this wood one among other things.

These guys then have pretty much no use for all the leather wheels so they sell them at a small cost in order to just get rid of them.

Let's hope that future Pilot owners don't get wise and start requesting their wheels so they can sell them on eBay and run up the cost. :wink:

The guy I bought mine from worked at a Honda dealer. The people buying new Pilots are opting for the Wood grain steering wheel as a dealer added accessory. The dealer just swaps in the new steering wheel and apparently the original factory wheels are up for grabs. The purchaser of the new Pilot is none the wiser.

(This has been mentioned in another thread but I also wanted to place it here for organization purposes)

All leather Pilot steering wheels are black. This is the only color offered. There is no need to worry that you might get a different color if you buy one of these wheels. :)

The instructions were very clear, and the pictures were great help.

Got my wheel for $57, recieved it yesterday, and did the swap in about an hour. It feels about 200% better than the stock wheel. I highly recommend it.

One little tip, though (I found on accident :) Prior to removing the airbag per your instructions, you can pop a plate off the bottom of the wheel with a small flathead screwdriver and unplug the airbag that way. So if you have to give it a good tug like I did, you don't worry about snapping any wires.

Thanks again!!

Just saw this post on using a pilot leather wheel, i paid $65 for the leather wheel kit and installed it myself... took alot of time and could not get it too look like it was sewed on at the factory, should have read about doing the pilot swap. What color do the pilot leather wheels come in, black? Anybody want to buy my black / grey leather wrap, will sell it CHEAP!

[quote:ad9e9d9b71="sspiller"]What color do the pilot leather wheels come in, black? Anybody want to buy my black / grey leather wrap, will sell it CHEAP![/quote:ad9e9d9b71]

On the colors, scroll up a couple of posts, you'll see one from me that says all Pilot leather steering wheels are black.

On selling your leather wrap, the best place to post that type of information is in our Trading Post subforum. You can find it here (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=9).

Just saw that, thanks... checking now for price and availability on one, i'll use the trading post once i confirm i've got one...

E-Mass,
Thanks for the directions on swapping out the steering wheels. It was exactly like your directions.I was very careful and it took about 45 min., thats includeing getting my tools together and putting everything away.Extremely easy. Anyone can do this.Thanks again. I love the leather.

Finally swapped mine out. Great experience. I detached the negative clamp on the battery, half for foolproof protection and half to learn the sequence for learning the radio code-in, reprogramming the radio, and reprogramming the auto window switch.

One caution for people - there are 4 springs under the "boss plate cover" piece which the #40 torx bolts go thru. Don't lose them (or the washers which go under the bolts) and when you reassemble the boss on the new wheel the black springs go on top (meaning as you face the steering wheel). They are very low tension springs - they aren't going to fly out or anything, but they could roll away (like mine did- only a few feet :) ).

Really feels great on the hands. It's a no brainer when you consider the retail cost of the leather cover is $65 and the time/frustration in putting it on.

The instructions were invaluable. I also used this PDF which is for installing the Pilot Wood Steering wheel: http://www.handa-accessories.com/pilot/woodwheel.pdf

Slowhand (above) refers to the PDF "for installing the Pilot Wood Steering wheel: http://www.handa-accessories.com/pilot/woodwheel.pdf." These instructions reference replacement of 6 Torx bolts when installing the Pilot wood wheel. No one above mentions the need to replace bolts when installing the Pilot leather wheel in an Element. IS THIS CORRECT? Nothing worse than needing additional parts on a Sunday once you disassemble something! thanks, joel

Thanks for the instructions EMass! I printed them out and sat them on the passenger seat. Took my time and it only took about half an hour! $58 for the Pilot wheel off e-bay and $12 for torx sockets at Sears. This site is awesome! Thanks again. Anybody hear of anyone buying Element steering wheels?

First off, I loved your (eMass) breakdown/how to on changing out the Pilot wheel, but my question actually pertains to something I saw in one of the posts (Kayakin' Dan) following your explaination. On the Pilot wood wheel
http://www.cheaphondaparts.com/shop/images/images_products_large/356.jpg
there are stereo controls on the right-hand side of the wheel.
a. would these work with our stock E stereos.
b. is there a way to buy just this control part & cable (assuming it would work)
If anyone has any input...

Thanks,
The J

A shout of thanks to eMass... I used this post (and the subsequent comments) when I swapped mine out. It's beautiful. As has been said here, it's really quite easy, and if you have a moderate amount of aptitude and you read this thread you will have no problems.

Question: Does anyone have the torque spec on the center steering wheel bolt? That's one bolt you don't want to lose. :) I used a torque wrench to put it at 45 ft lbs. It felt about right, but I wonder if anyone with a shop manual can verify?

When I get the time, I'll post all my pics of the process. But in the meantime, someone was asking for specific pics of the airbag:

(click for big version)
http://64.142.39.120/e/steeringwheel/airbagsm.jpg (http://64.142.39.120/e/steeringwheel/airbag.jpg)

Hello,
The correct tourque as per the shop manual is 29 lbft

hehe... then mine is not going to come off anytime soon :)


Thanks very much for your response!

Wanted to update this thread with my own photos of the swap process.

Click to go there: (http://www.red-tail.net/e/steeringwheel/)

http://www.red-tail.net/e/steeringwheel/wheel10-1.jpg (http://www.red-tail.net/e/steeringwheel/)

wheels swap. Well, you don't have to disco you horn fuse. That little access panel on the underneath of the wheel is for disconecting the airbag connector and there should be a black one pin connector for the horn. It is recommended to disconnect the battery, but I never have when replacing steering wheels at work. If you want to feel safer the recommend discoing the battery and waiting ten minutes for all resistors to drain.

And as long as you don't turn the key on, it won't set a code.

Also when you set the airbag down place it face up, if it somehow deploys face down it will go flying. Face up it will stay still. I've deployed airbags before, they have gone 50 feet in the air face down. Imagine that on your passenger seat.

Also when removing the wheel leave the bolt in a couple of threads so when the wheel comes loose you don't pull apart the SRS cable reel. Rock it side to side, and up down and when it comes loose, unthread the bolt by hand and carefully feed SRS wires through.

[quote:a3fd4d91df=" "]oving the wheel leave the bolt in a couple of threads so when the wheel comes loose you don't pull apart the SRS cable reel. Rock it side to side, and up down and when it comes loose, unthread the bolt by hand and carefully feed SRS wires through.[/quote:a3fd4d91df]
Great point. I didn't think of that!

A BIG thanks to eMass, seb and everyone else who contributed info on how to do the Pilot steering wheel swap. I just completed the swap a few minutes ago. It was a piece of cake and only took me about 45 minutes. Anybody can change steering wheels if they follow the excellent instructions posted by eMass and seb. There's 4 Pilot steering wheels on eBay right now. If you've been thinking about changing steering wheels, I say go for it! you won't regret it.

emass any possibility of reposting your photos? I just got my pilot steering wheel today, but your photos are not showing up. Thanks

New to the site but just got a red '05 EX and I was curious if you got the pilot steering wheel with the volume controls if there were any futher mods needed? Does the Element have a plug already in place to receive the volume controls?

Heads up for those who are thinking of Pilot steering wheel swap. I just saw on the .org site - apparently '05 Pilot steering wheel is different from previous models and will not fit on Element anymore.
http://www.hondaelement.org/showthread.php?threadid=6413

Anyone willing to see if a 2005 Pilot wheel fits on a 2005 Element?

I just got a sweet deal on ebay on a Pilot leather steering wheel. Can anybody provide me with a link that will actually show the removal and installation pictures.

Thanks

Read the whole thread, it's in there :)

(I could just give you a link to my site (click below), but then you might miss the important info to be found in this thread.)

After swapping in the new pilot wheel, I noticed that the steering wheel isn't 100% straight anymore. I triple checked the spline alignment and it was as close to straight as it was going to get, about 2-3 degrees to the left. If I shift it over to the right one spline, it's way off to the right. I would think that all the splines matted to all the steering wheels wheel would line up the same, but my experience tells me differently. Anyone else with the same experience? I guess i may need to get an alignment, at least to center the rack.

Hey yall, I cohersed a dealership to give me one of them there Honda elements for some money..and I am curious what model year of pilot's wheel will fit my 'echo 3'

Sweet!!!

Anyone willing to see if a 2005 Pilot wheel fits on a 2005 Element?

I can confirm, first hand, that the 05 Pilot wheel is not plug and play. Stick with the 03 and 04 wheels. I found this out the hard way after I pulled everything apart.

The side trim pieces are different but everything else appears to be the same.

I'm going to order the trim pieces from majestic, luckily they're actually fairly cheap.

I'll have "dummy" radio control buttons on the left side, unless I can figure out how to get them connected to the head unit.

Come to think of it, this actually will be a good alternative for 2006 Es equipped with the radio controls.

Anyway, I'll post pictures when I have them.

Curt

and can the original thread starter make have pictures that actually load? kindof a useless thread otherwise

emass's pics are long gone, unless TMac still has them on the server or a backup somewhere.

I've got thumbnails of his pics from google's cache at the bottom of my page, under all my own pics of the process.

http://www.red-tail.net/e/steeringwheel/

I had some DNS problems this morning, so if that link doesn't work try this (http://64.142.39.120/e/steeringwheel/).

For radio controls, click here (http://elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13519)

For radio controls, click here (http://elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13519)

Thanks Seb, I should have figured that it has been covered.

Good information here, will be a huge help.

Thanks.

I used the instructions Honda published for the Pilot (available in PDF here: http://www.handa-accessories.com/pilot/woodwheel.pdf). The instructions are applicable to the Element.

Anyone willing to see if a 2005 Pilot wheel fits on a 2005 Element?

I actually have an '05 pilot wheel on my '05 element. As I stated before, you need all the pilot trim pieces (everything exept the horn). It will not work with an '05 pilot spool. You will have to modify the element spool. The volume controls will not work with a stock stereo. You will need an adapter from PAC that lets you program three functions of your choice on an after market radio..

It's mine, mine all mine!

Hey question. Now that the 06 will be coming out with wheel mounted audio controls, couldn't you just by the wheel for the 06 elements and swap it out? and buy the cables that hook up to the headunit?

But that doesn't address the lack of leather on the steering wheel.

I actually have an '05 pilot wheel on my '05 element. As I stated before, you need all the pilot trim pieces (everything exept the horn). It will not work with an '05 pilot spool. You will have to modify the element spool. The volume controls will not work with a stock stereo. You will need an adapter from PAC that lets you program three functions of your choice on an after market radio..


Just bought an 05 steering wheel. It seems that I need the left and right trim pieces and the stereo controls - will the element cruise cotrols fit the pilot trim? From Majestic's page, it looks like I need the following parts; 1782814, 1782816, 1784095. Will I need anything else, like the horn plate? I'd like to have everything before I start taking my steering wheel off. Also, Can you explain what you mean by modifying the element spool? Not certain what this is not what I need to do.

Just bought an 05 steering wheel. It seems that I need the left and right trim pieces and the stereo controls - will the element cruise cotrols fit the pilot trim? From Majestic's page, it looks like I need the following parts; 1782814, 1782816, 1784095. Will I need anything else, like the horn plate? I'd like to have everything before I start taking my steering wheel off. Also, Can you explain what you mean by modifying the element spool? Not certain what this is not what I need to do.

You need everything from the pilot steering wheel (i.e. horn plate). The element cruise control does work, but you will need the '05 trim pieces because the bottom of it is shorter than the elements. There is a tread on modifing the spool, the reason for the modification is that two wires have to be soldered on the spool (1-controls to the radio, 2-is a ground).

The horn plate itself seems to be the same. The plastic trimpiece covering the steering wheel spokes, the front trimpieces, and the balance weight definitely needs to be purchased (and switches too).

The pictures are missing! :-(

Could you repost?

Thanks,
Michael

Here’s a complete DIY guide for swapping out the stock Element steering wheel for a leather one from a Honda Pilot.

I found my Pilot steering wheel on eBay. I looked at various parts sources on the Internet and concluded that eBay is much cheaper. I got my wheel for $35 plus shipping but since you could pay $150 or more through an Internet dealer anything under $75 seems like a pretty good deal to me. If you'd like to see if any are being offered on eBay right now click here (http://search.ebay.com/ws/search/SaleSearch?satitle=honda+pilot+steering+wheel&ht=1&sosortproperty=1&from=R10&BasicSearch=).

This is a simple job if you have the right tools and have a modest amount mechanical ability. Do not attempt this mod if you do not have the proper tools. You will need the following…

1/4” drive ratchet and extension
3/8” drive ratchet and extension
1/4” drive Torx T30 socket bit (for 2 airbag bolts)
1/4” drive Torx T40 socket bit (for 4 horn plate bolts)
3/8” drive 14mm socket (for steering wheel bolt)
Philips head screwdriver (for various trim pieces)Once you have the proper tools, make sure you’ll be working in a well lit area. The whole process takes about 30 minutes if you take your time and follow these instructions precisely. Let’s begin.

Step 1: Turn off the horn!

When you remove the two airbag bolts the horn will sound unless you do something about it first. All you have to do is open the hood, find the fuse box on the driver’s side near the battery and squeeze the four tabs together to take the lid off. Once the lid is off, find the 15 amp fuse for the horn and remove it. There is a fuse puller right inside the box for this purpose. See the diagram below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_00.jpg

Step 2: Remove the airbag bolts

Get out your 1/4” drive ratchet and extension and snap on the Torx T30 bit. Take out one bolt on each side of the airbag. Extract the bolts from the holes and put them in a safe place. See the picture below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_01.jpg

Step 3: Remove the airbag

In order to remove the airbag once the bolts are removed carefully pull it towards you until you can reach behind the airbag and disconnect the large yellow wire clip. Set the airbag aside. See the picture below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_02.jpg

Step 4: Take a good look!
Make a mental note, or a drawing, or use the picture below to remember how things are laid out at this point. This is important since you’ll need to put things back exactly this way when done.

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_03.jpg

Step 5: Prepare to remove the steering wheel

Make sure the wheel is straight. Disconnect the black wire clip on the left and the green wire clip on the right. Get out your 3/8” drive ratchet and extension and snap on the 14mm socket. Remove the center bolt. Put the bolt in a safe place. See the picture below…

http://www.elementownersclub.com/Images/eMass/wheel/wheel_04.jpg

Step 6: Remove the steering wheel

Again, be sure wheel is straight. Gently but firmly pull the wheel towards you with a left-to-right rocking motion. As you pull the wheel off be careful not to catch the wire clips on the steering wheel as they pass through the center hole! After removal, let the wires dangle freely. IMPORTANT: Do not touch or spin the white airbag plate on the column! More info on this issue here (http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=28679&highlight=#28679).

It looks like the '06 wheel will NOT work with the '06 Element's wheel. What I am wondering is if this is the same for the '05 Pilot wheel. Did the steering wheel change on the Honda pilot in 2005 or 2006?

Also a bump for this excellent thread, although have never seen the pictures.

I wanted to do this swap for a while and bought a 2005 pilot wheel about 10 months ago. Little did I know then that there were some compatablility issues. However, the price was right at $22.

It seems that supplies of the 03-04 wheels are drying up, and what I've seen on eBay have been expensive (probably for this reason).

Anyway, having the wheel, I have been waiting to put a parts list together that warrented a Majestic order.

Anyway, the parts came yesterday and I promptly completed the swap with the 2005 Pilot wheel.

Anyone contemplating this swap, here is a breakdown as I did it:

What you need:

Both trim pieces (left and right) - I went with the Titanium.
Radio Control switch (color matched)
Cruise Control switch (color matched)
Rear Cover - I went with black.

Everything else is transferable from the Element wheel.

NOTE: to use the Element Dynamic Damper you need to clearance the top of the steering wheel chassis ~0.25" to get it to fit. This will save about $22, and it isn't difficult to do as the wheel is cast aluminum and therefore very soft.

I bought a black pilot rear cover for a Pilot, and purchased Element upper and lower steering column cowlings in black also. To me, this reduced the amount of gray, and the black tied in nicely with the black leather on the wheel. It also ties in nicely with the black ignition switch, the trim around the gauges, the vents, etc. Also, I was able to replace the lower cowling that was really scratched from the ignition key.

Some ways to save money if you're going to do this swap, would be to reuse your element cruise control switch.

After doing this work, I was thinking to myself that it probably would be neat to use some Krylon Fusion and paint the trim pieces black, re-use my black Element Cruise switch, and order a 2006 Element radio switch (which I'm assuming is also black).

This would further the black look, which I think is more appealing.

Overall, I like the results. The wheel feels great, and I think looks significantly better than the add-on leather cover. I wish my airbag was black instead of the gray that it is, but it's something I can live with.

My coworker upgraded his shift knob in his 05 S2000, and my E is the fortunate recipient of the stock knob. It's funny how something so seemingly insignificant can make such a difference. It feels like a different car when I shift now. It matches the Pilot swap perfectly, as it is titanium with a black leather center.

I'd have taken pictures, but I dropped our camera when I was taking it out to the garage. Sadly, it didn't make it.

To clarify, the horn plate is transferable. Also, I used some blue loctite on the threads of the horn plate bolts during reassembly, as it was evident this was done at the factory.

I just did the swap out myself. It really wasn't that difficult to do thanks to the instructions on the board. It took about an hour from start to finish, and this was because we (my dad and I) missed an important part of the instructions and were spinning our wheels for 15 minutes. Anyhow, the leather steering wheel looks great, and feels even better than the stock steering wheeel.

I used an older 2003-2004 Pilot steering wheel, and all the parts switched over like a glove to that steering wheel. Why didn't Honda just charge an extra $40 and give us leather from the factory??? :confused: Here are some pictures of the final install:

http://homepage.mac.com/aquilles/.Public/100_0223.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/aquilles/.Public/100_0222.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/aquilles/.Public/100_0225.jpg

I just did the swap out myself. It really wans't that difficult to do thanks to the instructions on the board. It took about an hour from start to finish, and this was because we missed an important part of the instructions and where spinning our wheels for 15 minutes. Anyhow, the leather steering wheel looks great, and feels even better than the stock steering wheeel.

I used an older Pilot steering wheel, and all the parts switched over like a glove to that steering wheel. Why didn't Honda just charge an extra $40 and give us leather from the factory??? :confused: Here are some pictures of the final install:

What year Pilot wheel did you use on your '06? Thanks.

It was the older 2003 or 2004 Pilot steering wheel. They're a direct swap for the Element steering wheel. The newer 2005 and 2006 Pilot wheel IS NOT a direct swap, since you need different parts to make it work with the Element.

P.S. If you do this yourself, remember you need to have your radio code handy, and you're going to have to reset your auto driver's window by turning the engine on, then pushing the button down, and pull it up, and keep the button up for two seconds. This only resets the window. Other than that, the only other tip I can give is to rock the steering wheel persistently. It doesn't come off easily, but it does come off pretty quickly. Remember to watch the wires!

I love the new leather steering wheel!

Looks sweet.

Darn, I wish my airbag was black.

I just did the swap out myself. It really wans't that difficult to do thanks to the instructions on the board. It took about an hour from start to finish, and this was because we missed an important part of the instructions and where spinning our wheels for 15 minutes. Anyhow, the leather steering wheel looks great, and feels even better than the stock steering wheeel.

I used an older Pilot steering wheel, and all the parts switched over like a glove to that steering wheel. Why didn't Honda just charge an extra $40 and give us leather from the factory??? :confused: Here are some pictures of the final install:

http://homepage.mac.com/aquilles/.Public/100_0223.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/aquilles/.Public/100_0222.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/aquilles/.Public/100_0225.jpg

The wheel looks great, Now only if the pilot wheel cam in gray also, I would have one in my SSM E. The SSM has gray, blue accents, no black and I think it would look a bit silly in my E.

Comments: (2003-2004 swap)

I found my wheel on a Honda Pilot forum :) It cost more than the prices quoted here but was still half or less than dealer prices.

Straighten/center the steering wheel before starting the job. The pilot wheel does not fit on exactly the same notch as the stock wheel. One way looks off, the other way is not noticably off center. If you have the wheels straight when you re-intall, it makes it easier to choose the notch that is closer to center.

Post 58 above is critical because it has pictures that are not dead links. Also, H&A has installation instructions under it's Pilot parts section. These are almost identical to the E instructions.

Write down your radio presets and security code before starting. Know how to re-initialize the electric window auto up/down.

Disconnect the battery.

Remove the air bag and place it FACE UP, out of the way (if it deploys for some strange reason, you do not want to launch the housing...).

I did not have a T40 Torx but I found a common allen wrench that fit well enough to remove the horn ring bolts.

After removing the main bolt, re-intall it most of the way, then you can yank on the wheel to loosen it without risk of pulling the spool under the wheel.

The spool is loose on the column. Be prepared to turn it a bit to align it with your new wheel. Just do not pull on it at any time!

When threading the wires through the new wheel, be very carefull not to pull the spool out. This is not hard, just be careful and aware.

Re-intallation - see the second comment above. Once complete the slight centering issue will probably be un-noticable.

Credit to the author of post 58! And the person that noted to reinstall the bolt loosely before reefing on the old wheel. Nothing posted here is original to me, just stuff I pick up reading a zillion posts...:-D

I just finished my swap to the Pilot leather wheel. I bought it a year ago and never had the nerve to do it. I just read some newer posts and was inspired to do the deed. It took me less than an hour including letting the car sit for 10 minutes after disconnecting the battery. I went really slow...I kept thinking about that airbag going off. What really got me off my butt was ordering the new leather automatic shift knob for the 07 from H&A. I figured I should have the leather wheel on to sort of match the shifter. BTW, it took half the time that it took me to stitch a leather cover on once. Plus way less frustration! This club is great.

It was the older 2003 or 2004 Pilot steering wheel. They're a direct swap for the Element steering wheel. The newer 2005 and 2006 Pilot wheel IS NOT a direct swap, since you need different parts to make it work with the Element.

P.S. If you do this yourself, remember you need to have your radio code handy, and you're going to have to reset your auto driver's window by turning the engine on, then pushing the button down, and pull it up, and keep the button up for two seconds. This only resets the window. Other than that, the only other tip I can give is to rock the steering wheel persistently. It doesn't come off easily, but it does come off pretty quickly. Remember to watch the wires!

I love the new leather steering wheel!

Does anyone know what parts would be needed for a '06 Pilot wheel or somewhere where I could find out?

Noob here, but after reading this thread is the only difference betweent the two wheels the leather? I actually like the feel of the thicker wheel from the leather wrap on there, but I don't have an Element in my possession yet. Thus, I cannot really comment on how the leather wrap from Honda compares to a Pilot steering wheel.

FWIW, my last Honda (Acura) was an Integra with the leather wrap on the steering wheel. I loved how thick it felt in my hands.

drPheta what they mean by Pilot wheel, is the wheel off of a Honda Pilot. It can be swapped onto an Element to give you a leather wheel Drew:)

drPheta what they mean by Pilot wheel, is the wheel off of a Honda Pilot. It can be swapped onto an Element to give you a leather wheel Drew:)


But what's the difference between the Pilot wheel and the Element wheel? Does the Honda Pilot leather feel better? Is it smaller or more ergonomic? I can't seem to find where this is listed in my search.

Element wheel is rubber(?) the Pilot wheel can be had in leather either from ebay, a junkyard or a honda dealer. Definately a nicer feel. There is also an available leather wheel for the Element from HandA, it has stitching that matches the accessory leather auto shift knob, also available from HandA. Drew:)

Mine arrived yesterday, found on FleaBay for $45, it's like new. Going to do this weekend along with the new stereo as I don't have the code for the current radio and will lost it when I disconnect the battery. Now only if the auto dimming rear-view mirror was here I would have a trifecta.

Does anyone know if 1) the pictures with the instructions at the beginning of the thread were lost during the great meltdown and 2) if they can be found somewhere else?

EDIT: Never mind, I found them. Between the pictures and the service manual I have everything I need for this.

Mine arrived yesterday, found on FleaBay for $45, it's like new. Going to do this weekend along with the new stereo as I don't have the code for the current radio and will lost it when I disconnect the battery. Now only if the auto dimming rear-view mirror was here I would have a trifecta.

Does anyone know if 1) the pictures with the instructions at the beginning of the thread were lost during the great meltdown and 2) if they can be found somewhere else?

EDIT: Never mind, I found them. Between the pictures and the service manual I have everything I need for this.
Don't forget to pick up some Loctite ...I think blue is the kind that you can take apart later. Switching the steering wheel was way easier than lacing on a cover. It took me an hour but I went s l o w l y.

Does the wheel have to be from a certain year? I was having a hard time finding a Pilot wheel, so I bought a wheelskins off of eBay. Turns out I think my cover is a second or "B" stock, because it doesn't fit and the quality was second rate. I still can't get it to line up properly.

Don't forget to pick up some Loctite ...I think blue is the kind that you can take apart later. Switching the steering wheel was way easier than lacing on a cover. It took me an hour but I went s l o w l y.

Thanks, I keep both Red and Blue around, Blue is the one you can take apart later. I think there is also a green which is the equivalent of welding.

I just couldn't get into putting a cover on and this turns out to be about the same price. I'll probably do this over a 2 day period as I am going to paint the two silver plastic pieces, one on each side of the wheel.

Does the wheel have to be from a certain year? I was having a hard time finding a Pilot wheel, so I bought a wheelskins off of eBay. Turns out I think my cover is a second or "B" stock, because it doesn't fit and the quality was second rate. I still can't get it to line up properly.

I think I read somewhere on EOC that is has to be a 2003-2005. Mine was from a 2004 Pilot so same year as my E, thought that was good. Anyone else have the definitive answer on this?

The way I found mine was set up a search for "pilot steering wheel" or something like that, I deleted the search, and had FleaBay e-mail me when new listings we posted. I grabbed this one within 2 hours of being listed as it had a Buy It Now. There's usually 3-4 a week but a lot of them are brown, be sure to clarify with the seller if they don't list the colour.

Good luck!

I think I read somewhere on EOC that is has to be a 2003-2005. Mine was from a 2004 Pilot so same year as my E, thought that was good. Anyone else have the definitive answer on this?

The way I found mine was set up a search for "pilot steering wheel" or something like that, I deleted the search, and had FleaBay e-mail me when new listings we posted. I grabbed this one within 2 hours of being listed as it had a Buy It Now. There's usually 3-4 a week but a lot of them are brown, be sure to clarify with the seller if they don't list the colour.

Good luck!

You're right..it does need to be from a certain year. I thought it had to be from 2003-2004 Pilot because they changed the design of the wheel slightly in 2005. I put a 2004 Pilot wheel in my 2005 and it fit perfectly.

NOW I see that this thread was posted 2003. Yes I thought this was a great idea. Yes the instructions were well written. Yes I got a 'good deal' on a 2007 Pilot steering wheel. The "swap" went well until the final step, putting the "back trim cover" onto the new steering wheel...they were NOT compatible. I guess My 2003 Element anda 2007 Pilot are a mismatch. Any one want a good deal on a beautiful 2007 Pilot steering wheel???

NOW I see that this thread was posted 2003. Yes I thought this was a great idea. Yes the instructions were well written. Yes I got a 'good deal' on a 2007 Pilot steering wheel. The "swap" went well until the final step, putting the "back trim cover" onto the new steering wheel...they were NOT compatible. I guess My 2003 Element anda 2007 Pilot are a mismatch. Any one want a good deal on a beautiful 2007 Pilot steering wheel???

What about using a Pilot back trim cover?

At $1.59 it's worth a try.

Take a look here (http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=Pilot&catcgry2=2007&catcgry3=5DR+EX&catcgry4=KA5AT&catcgry5=STEERING+WHEEL+%28SRS%29).

Just did mine, too. Put an '03 Pilot wheel in my '05 E. When I did my '03 E a couple years ago, I just yanked on the old wheel to get it off, and unspooled the SRS ribbon all over my lap.

This time I took advantage of the tip someone gave earlier in this thread to leave the steering wheel bolt on after loosening it. That way you can yank the wheel to get it moving, but it won't come off in one big jerk. Made this install much easier than the last time.

eKennedy

Just did mine, too. Put an '03 Pilot wheel in my '05 E. When I did my '03 E a couple years ago, I just yanked on the old wheel to get it off, and unspooled the SRS ribbon all over my lap.

This time I took advantage of the tip someone gave earlier in this thread to leave the steering wheel bolt on after loosening it. That way you can yank the wheel to get it moving, but it won't come off in one big jerk. Made this install much easier than the last time.

eKennedy

Yes, leaving the steering wheel nut on the end of the bolt was a great tip for me also when I did my swap. Don't you love these leather Pilot wheels? It is such a nice inexpensive (mine was $40) interior upgrade.

The thread drops off..

Which years Pilot steering wheel works..

The one on ebay says 05-07

Looks like a fun mod.. just need to find the right raw materials.

Will the pilot wheel work on the 07's? Thought I may have heard that it won"t. I need this mod bad. My hands are just too good for a plastic wheel lol

I need this mod bad. My hands are just too good for a plastic wheel lol

You could go old school and wear driving gloves... Did that when I had an MG B...:razz:

Will the pilot wheel work on the 07's? Thought I may have heard that it won"t.

Would also like the answer to that question and.....

where's the best place to pick them up? Ebay? Would LOVE to pick one up for around $40......:rolleyes:

So the questions are

Will a Pilot steering wheel for an 05 and newer Pilot work on the Element?

Is there anything with the 07 or newer Element that keeps it from having this mod?

Does this count as a bump?

I bought fredsings pilot wheel after he found out it wouldn't fit he E cause the wheel was a new one, 06 I think. I put it on my 07 works great, the alignment mark was one tooth off though. Look art your wheel and look at the one your thinking about buying, look at how the bottom spokes look compared to yours> Drew:)

Well, lucky post #100.....

I would like to do the Pilot swap and bought an 04 wheel that comes with all of the Pilot trim and buttons for the radio also...

I think I have read thru most of the threads...

Can a 2005 Ex use the Pilot wheel with radio controls...?

I saw where someone actually swapped for an 06 radio...

What is the current status for the 2005, Please....

Tn3m3l3:rolleyes:

Did the 05 have radio controls on the wheel, if not there is no wiring in the column for the controls. Drew:)

No it doesn't have radio buttons currently, so I am sure you are correct that there are no wires waiting for me...

I presume you are saying the wires going in during the project are not part of the plan.

I went with the SC leather-wrapped steering wheel instead of the Pilot wheel so that it would match my shifter. (Copper stitching).

Here's a pic...

Wow that really looks good Maximo Park!!! I too would have bought the SC wheel if it wasn't so dog gone expensive:sad:. Although now I'm thinking of changing over my interior to SC covers:-o. Merry Christmas Drew:)

Wow that really looks good Maximo Park!!! I too would have bought the SC wheel if it wasn't so dog gone expensive:sad:. Although now I'm thinking of changing over my interior to SC covers:-o. Merry Christmas Drew:)

Thanks Drew. :) Yes, I know what you mean. It's ridiculously expensive, IMO. It took me a looong time to justify the price. 9 months, to be exact. Anyway, I really, really like it. It feels great. Make sure to post some pics of your interior if you decide to change it.

Merry Christmas!

Hi,

I just wanted to add that I got mine from Reliaparts.com via the automotix.net website. I guess Automotix has a network of wreckers in the US and I paid about $6 to send out a request and I got my response a day later. I'm still waiting for the wheel but it has only been a few days and when stuff comes to Canada, it takes a few weeks.

It's too bad that the screens from Emass' first post in this thread are gone. Anyone have the instructions with screen shots?

My wheel cost $100 + $20 in shipping.

thanks,

I've got a Pilot wheel from '05 or '06. Doesn't work with my '05 E. I need an '03 or '04. So if this wheel will work for somebody just make me an offer and send me a PM here.

I've got a Pilot wheel from '05 or '06. Doesn't work with my '05 E. I need an '03 or '04. So if this wheel will work for somebody just make me an offer and send me a PM here.

In one of the posts in this thread someone mentions that the 03 & 04 wheels are getting rare and the prices are going up and they are very hard to find. Like I said above, Automotix.net is where I had to go.

good luck

So I just swapped out the wheel on my 08 with an 08 Pilot wheel. This is the third E I've done this on, so it went pretty quick.

Since the other pics in the thread have disappeared, I took some of my own. They're from a cell phone, so sorry for the quality, but I figure they're better than nothing.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_004.jpg

Airbag unscrewed, showing the one wire harness you have to release to get it out.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_006.jpg

From under the wheel, there's a little cover you take off to get access to the airbag clip.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_007.jpg

The airbag.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_008.jpg

Airbag off, remember where all the connections go.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_009.jpg

Horn plate off.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_010.jpg

Rest of the trim pieces removed. Remember to loosen, but not completely remove the main bolt holding the wheel in place. That way you can yank on the wheel without worrying about pulling the SRS cable out also.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_012.jpg

Wheel totally off. I had to crank it to the right to get it to lock so I could get enough leverage on that big main bolt. Don't let the SRS cable pivot or fall out while you're working on it.

After that it was just a matter of putting the new wheel on, and then reconnecting everything.

http://www.doomorama.com/EPics/Photo_110908_014.jpg

All the trim and airbag replaced. The color is a bit more gray than black, but maybe that's just the one I got.

That's it.

eKennedy

I will attempt the swap to a Pilot wheel and can't find a spot where the instructions with pictures that work still resides. Help would be appreciated.

tn3m3l3

I will attempt the swap to a Pilot wheel and can't find a spot where the instructions with pictures that work still resides. Help would be appreciated.

tn3m3l3

Sorry about that, I changed web hosts recently. A zip file of the pics from my last post is at http://megat0n.com/Pics/E-Wheel-Swap-Pics.zip.

eKennedy

Just to be sure, an 08 Pilot leather steering wheel will fit an '08 element without modification? Majestic is showing a part number for a dark grey wheel as 2329262.

Would this Modification work on a 2004 LX? I'm not sure if the wires would be there or not and before i took it apart to check i was hoping someone knew!

Would this Modification work on a 2004 LX? I'm not sure if the wires would be there or not and before i took it apart to check i was hoping someone knew!

Previous post mention that a 2003-2004 Ploit wheel would be a direct swap for your 2004.

anyone looking for "detailed" instructions and pictures can just go to the links at h and a for the steering wheels them selves for both the pilot (http://www.handa-accessories.com/pilot/woodwheel.pdf) and the element (http://www.handa-accessories.com/element/steeringwheel.pdf). thats what i did when i did mine. they say 03-04 and 06-08 on their site for the pilot, but the instructions are the exact same for both, i think the shape of the swc and cruise surrounds might be the oly difference. the ones for the pilot wheel i did on mine and the original had a different shape, but all the electronics and resistance values are the same for th pilot and the element so if you get the whole thing off ebay with the controls then you dont have to worry about any of that. the inside where the airbag goes is the same shape.

AFter reading ekennedy's post it appears that a straight swap is possible from an 08 pilot to an 08 element. I purchased a dark grey leather wheel from Majestic as there were none on ebay that didn't look worn. The instructions look clear enough, I;ve pulled wheels off before. Hopefully the trim pieces swap over as well because the only thing I am getting is the wheel structure. I guess I'll find out either way.

I changed it out today, took under an hour. I follwed the directions on the H and A website and in my service manual. All '08 trim parts swap out perfectly to the '08 Pilot wheel 78501-S9V-A61ZC. The center of the wheel where everything is attached is the same between the Element and the Pilot. I had to use a steering wheel puller on mine, I don't think it would have come off by yanking it.

I reused all the bolts, cleaned them and put new loctite on where needed. The new wheel comes with the holes for the horn ring already preloctited.

I think the wheel spokes are as close to centered as the original wheel, there are tick marks on the wheel and on the shaft but even the OEM wheel did not line up to those so I used a sharpie to make new match marks.

Dark grey leather is a good match, not quite black but very close and not really a noticeable difference. The leather feel is much better than the stock E wheel which feels rather cheap. I imagine the market for a used stock E wheel is pretty weak....

I swapped out my wheel this weekend using this thread as a guide, the instructions couldn't have made the project any easier. A big thank you to all that gave input to this thread.

I know this is a long thread thats been going on for ages but... i thought ide add some of my own experiences

i just installed my steering wheel and shift knob. now i forget if i mentioned it but i had purchased the only full leather steering wheel for elements... now pilot wheel might have same issue im not sure. but..

my steering wheel was a 2007 orange stitching (i restitched to red) but it appears a 2007 wheel is lacking a drilled and tapped hole for a ground wire that is on 2009+ elements

i was able to reposition the wire to use another screw but I thought ide toss that out there

all in all very easy didnt need a puller and was done in under 30 min :)

I know this is a long thread thats been going on for ages but... i thought ide add some of my own experiences

i just installed my steering wheel and shift knob. now i forget if i mentioned it but i had purchased the only full leather steering wheel for elements... now pilot wheel might have same issue im not sure. but..

my steering wheel was a 2007 orange stitching (i restitched to red) but it appears a 2007 wheel is lacking a drilled and tapped hole for a ground wire that is on 2009+ elements

i was able to reposition the wire to use another screw but I thought ide toss that out there

all in all very easy didnt need a puller and was done in under 30 min :)

You should post some pics of what you did for the ground wire.
You should also post some pics of that restitched steering wheel!!!!

any pictures?

so i need an 03 pilot wheel to replace my 03 element wheel?

will the horn, and cruise work normally after the swap?

can you hook up the audio controls?

thanks guys

any pictures?

so i need an 03 pilot wheel to replace my 03 element wheel?

will the horn, and cruise work normally after the swap?

can you hook up the audio controls?

thanks guys

Cruise will work fine, but to gain audio controls you will need to replace the clockspring and the radio and wire between the two for SWC to work on and 03. or you could get the RF-ASWC from metra and have SWC that way, but it wont work on your factory radio on an 03, only an aftermarket.

http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=18944

Don't know if anyone's interested, but I still have a search saved on ebay since I was shopping for a Pilot wheel and the other day it came up with one of the woodgrain wheels for $100+shipping. It is a great deal if you are looking for that sort of thing. I won't post the link, but just search for "Honda Pilot Woodgrain Steering Wheel." It will only fit '07 & up Elements. I personally don't think the Element would look good with a wooden steering wheel, but I know people have expressed interest in the past.

Does anyone know why some peoples write-ups have pics, and others have the boxed in question mark? You guys do excellent work, and it is discouraging when one is not able to view the work.

Does anyone know why some peoples write-ups have pics, and others have the boxed in question mark? You guys do excellent work, and it is discouraging when one is not able to view the work.



The boxes with the question marks were images that were being hosted on outside servers. The owner of the images either took them down or moved them to another server.

so i have an 05 EX AT MBP, what year steering wheel from the pilot do i use? and can i get the audio controls?

so i have an 05 EX AT MBP, what year steering wheel from the pilot do i use? and can i get the audio controls?

OK... Someone correct this if this is wrong but I think the following swap guide is correct.

Element steering wheel swaps with leather Pilot wheel

04-06 Element same as 03-04 Pilot
07-11 Element same as 05-08 Pilot

(note: I going to try to put a leather 04 Pilot wheel on my 07 element using everything from my 07 wheel except the trim pieces which I have on order from an 04 Pilot wheel. I'm hoping the airbags are the same size to fit the older trim.)

OK... Someone correct this if this is wrong but I think the following swap guide is correct.

Element steering wheel swaps with leather Pilot wheel

04-06 Element same as 03-04 Pilot
07-11 Element same as 05-08 Pilot

(note: I going to try to put a leather 04 Pilot wheel on my 07 element using everything from my 07 wheel except the trim pieces which I have on order from an 04 Pilot wheel. I'm hoping the airbags are the same size to fit the older trim.)

Just finished putting a leather 04 Pilot wheel on my 07 Element. I purchased the 04 trim pieces that fit in the steering wheel for the 04 Pilot because they are wheel specific. Everything else swapped over perfectly. In conclusion I think any leather Pilot wheel 03-08 will fit any Honda Element as long as you have the correct two plastic trim pieces for the wheel. AND the $7 back cover from an 04-06 Element (I forgot that part).

Awesome job! Enjoy your new wheel, I love mine!

Thanks for the install guide, bought a woodgrain w/leather brand new on ebay for $79. It came with instructions, but i wouldn't have bought it without knowing whether I could easily replace it. The rubber on the original was all loose and spongy.

Thanks for the install guide, bought a woodgrain w/leather brand new on ebay for $79. It came with instructions, but i wouldn't have bought it without knowing whether I could easily replace it. The rubber on the original was all loose and spongy.
Here's my pic: I think the wood trim looks OK...

Thanks for the clarification, early on; in fact, the OP, shows no pictures, but those boxes with ? marks inside. I too, was wondering what they meant. Perhaps the Administrator could post this information of the Home or some Upfront thread.

Thanks for the clarification, early on; in fact, the OP, shows no pictures, but those boxes with ? marks inside. I too, was wondering what they meant. Perhaps the Administrator could post this information of the Home or some Upfront thread.

The original posts are from 2003. The empty boxes instead of pictures mean that the original pictures were hosted on a different site and are no longer online.

The original posts are from 2003. The empty boxes instead of pictures mean that the original pictures were hosted on a different site and are no longer online.

Yes. I think there was a server crash several years ago. Maybe this will help:

anyone looking for "detailed" instructions and pictures can just go to the links at h and a for the steering wheels themselves for both the pilot (http://www.handa-accessories.com/pilot/woodwheel.pdf) and the element (http://www.handa-accessories.com/element/steeringwheel.pdf). thats what i did when i did mine. they say 03-04 and 06-08 on their site for the pilot, but the instructions are the exact same for both....

OK, I've made contact with a guy here in Maryland who has access to the take-off Pilot wheels. He sold me one for a very reasonable price. His Email addy is targetpractice97@comcast.net - he goes by "RT". I'm not trying to drum up business for this guy, I'm just trying to let you guys know of source to get these without having to spend 80+. I'm not connected to this guy in any way other than winning an Ebay auction for the wheel.

Have any of you guys had to use a steering wheel puller or torque wrench for doing this? I can get these loaner tools for free at the local parts store.

So I contacted "RT". Being this post was from 2003, and brand new '05-'08 pilots dont exist, it was a stretch. Here's his NO response;

"I'm still around and still work with Honda but im not getting those wheels anymore. I actually had 1 my kids played with and tossed it about a year ago"

Just a FYI for anyone. I purchased what was listed as a 2005 Pilot leather steering wheel on flea bay for what I thought was a good deal. Turns out what was delivered was a 2005 Pilot EX steering wheel which is the EXACT same steering wheel (vinyl not leather) that I currently own. Seller made it right and I have an extra free steering wheel. Could of bought Gibroni's wheel for roughly the same price and would have had leather. :roll:

Both 2005-8 Honda Pilots with EX and LX trim packages have vinyl covered steering wheels (P/N 78501-S9V-A51ZA). EXLs had the leather covered steering wheels (P/N 78501-S9V-A61ZA).

Ding! Mark another successful leather pilot swap. This thread has just about everything needed. emass's tools breakdown at the beginning was spot on. Picked up a set of larger torx bits to get the T30 and T40 for about $6 on ebay. Got the 05 Pilot wheel for my 07 E from another member on here for $50. Good deal all around. The tip about leaving the bolt in a few threads was great and is still worth repeating, just rocked the wheel a few different angles and BAM, wheel is loose and spool is still spooled!

Only thing that gave me trouble was the darn horn connector clip. I had no idea how to disconnect it. I followed the Handa instructions for the copper stitched SC wheel, but they just said to disconnect it. What I did after 5min of bashful tugging, was pried the connector metal piece that is riveted to the horn boss out just enough so I could finger the back side and press the clip. Here is a photo of the back side (Not how you see it connected, I spun it around to show). I know, it says "PUSH" too bad you cant see it.

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Look Ma, No hands! Here is the spool after wheel is pulled off.
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This is where my radio code was. Some people had trouble finding there's. Radio code is the top string, don't know what the bottom is.

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Overall, fricken easy. Feels awesome. Mine lined up straight. The steering wheel hub with the teeth was rusty, shot it up with some PB blaster lube.