900SAAB.com: Leather Knob and Wheel

900SAAB.com: Leather Shift Knob and Steering Wheel

One of the shortcomings of the S-model, in my opinion, is the lack of the leather steering wheel, shift knob and shift boot. The SE models, in '96 and later years, came with both a leather shift knob and shift boot. All SE models came with a leather wrapped steering wheel.

Shift Knob and Boot:

If you're willing to live without the reverse lockout (lifting up on the shift knob to put the car in reverse), a universal shift knob can be easily fitted. To remove the original knob, you'll have to destroy it; SAAB fitted the knob in place with epoxy and it is nearly impossible to remove without damage. I used a set of channel-lock pliers to remove my stock knob; I broke it away layer by layer until I had access to the bare shaft. With the knob off, it's a simple task to fit a leather boot. The original rubber boot pops out of the console and the new one pops in. The shift knob seen in the photo is a universal B&M knob which fits to the shaft via threaded adapters.

Steering Wheel:

For those of us with the '94 model, we have a unique steering wheel. This is actually the same wheel used in the 92+ SAAB 900's and 9000's. For a leather wheel, you can source an NOS or used 9000 wheel. For those with later model wheels (3-spoke), you'll want to source a replacement wheel from like-year'd 900's or have your wheel covered.

To remove the wheel, release the telescopic handle and extend the wheel to it's furthest point. Disconnect the battery; this is important to keep the SRS system from deploying or registering a fault when removed! Remove the screws (from behind) securing the airbag to the wheel and lift it out. Disconnect the connector and lay the airbag aside, interior-side down. To remove the wheel itself, unscrew the the large-diameter center nut to the end of it's threads (but leave it in place), grasp the wheel at 3 and 9 and wiggle gently while pulling toward you. The wheel will rock free. Remove the nut and remove the wheel. Install the new wheel in like fashion. '95+ models will have a wheel that can only be installed one way.