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Adding Steering Wheel Controls

4 messages,  Last post on May 24, 2010 at 8:24 AM

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What is this discussion about? Pontiac Montana, Pontiac Montana SV6, Van

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#1 of 4 Adding Steering Wheel Controls by fatz_z

Dec 02, 2009 (8:53 am)

Hi all,
 
I just bought a used 2005 SV6 that doesn't have steering wheel controls. I can buy a wheel that does off ebay but want to know how hard it is to wire it up.
 
I think the radio is the same and have been told the airbag just unclips with one 18mm bolt (might get a body shop to do it) but I'm not sure if there's allot to the wiring of the controls.
 
Has anyone had any experience with this or know where I can find a wiring diagram?
 
Thanks

#2 of 4 Re: Adding Steering Wheel Controls [fatz_z] by spike99

Dec 09, 2009 (2:23 pm)

Replying to: fatz_z (Dec 02, 2009 8:53 am)
.
  
Not too sure how one can "Self Upgrade" one's standard steering wheel to electronic control steering wheel - within newer technology vehicles. To me, this task is more complex then just basic auto wiring. Might also be some background wiring and security module upgrades as well. Background "new technology" items that need lots of proactive investigation as well.
 
Many times, I read that one should NOT "randomly / blindly" unplug air bag wiring, computer wiring and other sensitive new technology wiring. If air bags go off, their deployment speed can break a person's neck and ribs. Especially if the person isn't properly "seated" in the vehicle's seat. If a wire connector has a safety clip (like many air bag wiring), do NOT remove the safety and unplug the connector. Doing so can activate the steering wheel air bag. Or as a minimum, activity a security / alarm feature &/or activate Onstar feature in your vehicle as well.
 
With the above warning in mind, definately visit an auto shop that's certified in Air Bags, "new technology" steering wheel removals and auto radio installs. To me, all these things (and Onstar - if your vehicle has it) are interconnected and must be handled with great care.
  
Hope this helps...
 
.

#3 of 4 Re: Adding Steering Wheel Controls [spike99] by fatz_z

Dec 09, 2009 (5:57 pm)

Replying to: spike99 (Dec 09, 2009 2:23 pm)
We'll see, I have a friend who's a mechanic he will have the wiring diagrams hopefully and I'll likely get him or someone professional to handle the air bag. Of course assuming the wheel will work with my radio. As far as I can tell there's only two radio's for the van, one with CD changer and one without, no special one for steering wheel controls. But you may be right about a module being required, I'll post back when I know more.

#4 of 4 find a good aftermarket guy by dancars

May 24, 2010 (8:24 am)

i know this will come across as a spam - but here goes -
i have a pontiac montana and upgraded my radio. I used an aftermarket shop i found through incarexperts.com. they can connect you to a reputable dealer in your area and save you a great deal of trouble and mistakes. just sharing what worked for me to help you.

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