Before You Begin

Important Safety Notice

• All installations should be performed by a qualified professional mechanic or auto upholstery specialist
• Improper installation can compromise airbag functionality and vehicle safety
• If you're not confident in your mechanical abilities, we strongly recommend professional installation
• Disconnect the battery and wait 15+ minutes before working on any airbag components

Estimated Time

• Steering Wheel: 45-90 minutes
• Airbag Cover: 15-30 minutes
• Paddle Shifters: 30-45 minutes
  
  

1. Carbon Fiber Steering Wheel Installation

Tools & Materials Required

• Socket set (typically 19mm-24mm, vehicle-specific)
• Torx bit set (T20, T25, T30)
• Flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool
• Torque wrench (recommended)
  
  

Step 1: Safety Preparation

Disconnect the Battery:

1. Turn off the vehicle completely
2. Locate the negative (-) battery terminal
3. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the negative cable
4. Wait 15-20 minutes to allow airbag system to fully discharge
5. Place removed cable away from battery terminal

⚠️ Critical: Never skip the 15-minute waiting period. The airbag capacitor must fully discharge.

Step 2: Remove Factory Steering Wheel

Access the Airbag Module:

1. Locate airbag access holes on the back of the steering wheel (usually two small holes)
2. Insert a flat-head screwdriver or release tool into each hole
3. Push to release spring clips holding the airbag
4. Carefully pull the airbag module toward you

Disconnect Airbag Wiring:

1. Locate the yellow airbag connector behind the module
2. Press the release tab and carefully disconnect
3. Disconnect horn connector (if separate)
4. Set airbag module face-up in a safe location away from work area

Remove Steering Wheel:

1. Remove the center retention nut (use correct socket size for your vehicle)
2. Mark the steering wheel position relative to the column (important for alignment)
3. Firmly pull the wheel straight toward you while wiggling slightly
4. If stuck, use a steering wheel puller tool (never hammer on the wheel)
5. Disconnect any remaining wiring (cruise control, radio controls, etc.)
   
   

Step 3: Install TORQD Steering Wheel

Transfer Components:

1. Transfer your factory airbag to the new TORQD wheel
2. Ensure all mounting clips align properly
3. Transfer any steering wheel controls or buttons

Mount the Wheel:

1. Align the TORQD wheel with the steering column using your alignment marks
2. Slide the wheel onto the column splines
3. Thread the center retention nut by hand first
4. Torque to factory specification (typically 25-35 ft-lbs—check your vehicle manual)

Connect Wiring:

1. Reconnect all control wiring (cruise, radio, etc.)
2. Reconnect the horn connector
3. Reconnect the yellow airbag connector (you should hear/feel a click)
   
   

Step 4: LED Installation (If Applicable)

Locate Power Source:

1. Use a multimeter to find a switched 12V power source (ignition-activated)
2. Common sources: fuse box, radio harness, or steering column wiring
3. Identify a clean ground point (metal chassis connection)

Wire Connection:

1. Connect LED positive (+) wire to 12V power using Add-A-Fuse or tap connector
2. Connect LED negative (-) wire to ground point
3. Secure all connections with heat shrink tubing or electrical tape
4. Route wires cleanly, avoiding pinch points and moving parts

Optional Add-A-Fuse Installation:

1. Locate appropriate fuse in fuse box (5-10 amp recommended)
2. Insert Add-A-Fuse with new 5-10 amp fuse
3. Connect LED power wire to Add-A-Fuse terminal
4. Test before final assembly

Step 5: Final Assembly & Testing

Reinstall Airbag Module:

1. Connect airbag connector (ensure positive click)
2. Align airbag module with steering wheel mounting points
3. Push firmly until spring clips engage (you should hear clicks)
4. Verify airbag is secure by pulling gently

Reconnect Battery:

1. Reattach negative battery cable
2. Tighten securely with wrench

System Check:

1. Turn ignition to "ON" position (don't start engine)
2. Airbag light should illuminate for 5-7 seconds, then turn off
3. If airbag light stays on, immediately disconnect battery and check all connections
4. Test horn functionality
5. Test LED lights (if installed)
6. Test all steering wheel controls

Road Test:

1. Start vehicle and verify all functions
2. Drive slowly and test steering response
3. Verify no unusual vibrations or noises

2. Carbon Fiber Paddle Shifter Installation

Tools Required

• Trim removal tools (plastic pry tools)
• Small socket set or Allen keys
• Clean microfiber cloth

Installation Steps

Step 1: Vehicle Preparation

1. Park on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off vehicle completely
3. Disconnect battery (optional but recommended for safety)

Step 2: Remove Factory Paddle Shifters

1. Locate and remove any trim panels covering paddle mounting points
2. Use trim removal tool to carefully pry panels without scratching
3. Locate mounting screws or clips behind each paddle
4. Unscrew or unclip factory paddles
5. Disconnect any wiring connectors (some vehicles have paddle position sensors)
6. Remove factory paddles and set aside

Step 3: Install TORQD Carbon Fiber Paddles

1. Clean mounting surfaces with microfiber cloth
2. Align new carbon fiber paddles with mounting points
3. If wired, connect electrical connectors first
4. Secure paddles with factory screws or provided hardware
5. Tighten evenly—don't over-torque (can crack carbon fiber)
6. Verify paddles move freely without binding

Step 4: Final Assembly

1. Reinstall any trim panels removed earlier
2. Ensure all clips engage properly
3. Reconnect battery (if disconnected)

Step 5: Testing

1. Start vehicle and shift to manual/sport mode
2. Test both paddle shifters (right = upshift, left = downshift typically)
3. Verify smooth operation and positive clicks
4. Check that transmission responds correctly to paddle inputs

Final Quality Check

Before Driving

• ✓ All components are securely fastened
• ✓ No loose wiring or dangling connectors
• ✓ Airbag warning light functions properly (illuminates then turns off)
• ✓ Horn works correctly
• ✓ All steering wheel controls function
• ✓ LED lights operate (if installed)
• ✓ Paddle shifters engage gears smoothly
• ✓ No unusual noises or vibrations
• ✓ Battery is securely reconnected

Post-Installation

• Drive cautiously for the first few miles
• Listen for any unusual sounds
• Verify all safety systems function normally
• If any warning lights remain on, immediately consult a professional

Important Reminders

Safety First

• Airbag systems are safety-critical components
• Improper installation can result in serious injury or death
• When in doubt, seek professional installation

Professional Installation Recommended

• TORQD Carbon recommends professional installation by a certified mechanic
• Many auto upholstery shops and performance shops offer installation services

Warranty Notice

Improper installation may void warranty. Please retain all original components and follow these instructions carefully. TORQD Carbon is not responsible for damage caused by improper installation.

For detailed vehicle-specific instructions, consult your vehicle's service manual or contact our support team.

Congratulations on your TORQD Carbon upgrade! Enjoy your enhanced driving experience.