Do you need to remove the steering wheel of a VW Polo to remove the dashboard?

I'm trying to remove the dashboard for respraying. Please no rude comments



ThanksDo you need to remove the steering wheel of a VW Polo to remove the dashboard?If it has an airbag, DON'T attempt this unless you've got a decent workshop manual %26amp; follow the instructions carefully.

Usually has the horn pad held on with a couple of screws from behind, then a central nut securing the wheel to the steering column.



Possibly doesn't need to come off, but get a workshop manual (Haynes or similar) - don't chance guessing it, you'll end up with loads of broken little clips %26amp; a dashboard that rattles forever!Do you need to remove the steering wheel of a VW Polo to remove the dashboard?Hi there, in common with most items of interior trim, dashboards have a wealth of, 'hidden screws', and clips. The manufacturer makes them difficult to locate deliberately, not to be bloody minded but rather than detract from the aesthetic appearance of the item. Therefore, patience is a virtue and as the previous respondent has suggested, a workshop manual might be best to identify and locate all the fittings before you start.



Steering wheels are best removed, this despite the fact that the ignition and stalk switches will leave a fair amount of wiring looms dangling in the vicinity. It might be sensible to use masking tape to label and identify each of the loom's modular connection terminals, i.e. ignition switch, indicators, rear wash wipe etc.



Steering wheel splines are quite delicate so if a wheel resists removal do not feel tempted to use too much force and, once again, I concur with the previous respondent in so much that airbag fitted wheels are a menace...



Airbags can deploy without warning in a workshop environment and cause horrific injuries. It is the ballistic equivalent of a 12 gauge shot gun being fired in an enclosed space! They are something of a double edged sword because, whilst they are a safety feature in everyday use, their removal is very dangerous in the hands of the uninitiated.



To be honest, I would wonder if dashboard removal was necessary for interior colour refinishing as any paintshop that is worthwhile would mask the dashboard guaranteeing no overspray. If they cannot or will not offer such an assurance then perhaps you are using the wrong paintshop?



I am currently restoring my 1983 VW Golf MK1 GTi and spraying it Porsche Nachblau Metallic Pearl inside and out but I will not be removal the dashboard or steering wheel...



I hope this may help and PLEASE be very careful with the airbags!