After various threads about the paddles and the airbag removal, I thought I would post my DIY today. I was quite nervous as some threads talk of using Dremel tools and all sorts of gubbins. I had been told these would be a straight swap, and luckily they were!
Part number is A171 267 00 46
£111.55 inc VAT
Target vehicle - 2009 CLK 280 Sport.
Before:
After:
A very simple swap, took about 30mins going cautiously and taking photos.
I loosened the two Torx T30 screws and then disconnected the battery. This allowed me to turn the wheel easier to access the screws. Took a bit of time as the screwdriver I used was too long and kept snagging on the interior. A thread I found elsewhere said use a long Torx screwdriver so I bought one - I'd go for a smaller one say 10cm long. Thanks to responses to me 'airbag removal' thread I made sure not to strip the screw heads.
I also decided not to disconnect the airbag to minimise any hassle on my 10 day old car. The paddles were still easy to access and remove whilst holding the airbag, the connecting wires were long enough to replace the paddles without removing the airbag.
The new parts:
Wheel with airbag removed. Paddle retaining screws and electrical connections circled in red.
Comparison of old vs. new. Note the same fitting and same plug shape.
The paddles were a direct swap, so a straight in-out job. Refitting the airbag was a bit trickier as the Torx driver couldn't get purchase on the screws properly. I was very nervous about stripping the screws. I only tightened them losely, then reconnected the battery and started up so I could move the steering wheel easier to finally tighten the two Torx screws holding the airbag into the wheel.
Job's a good un.
Quite expensive for a cosmetic mod, but I am happy with it. I might be able to reclaim a few quid by eBaying the old paddles.
Simon
