I just like the feel and look of the 97 steering wheel in comparison to the 96 one. I was just wondering if they could the interchangeable and would it be difficult with the airbag and all? Would it even be worth to look into or just too much money/time wasted?

 

no, airbag won't be compatible.

 

is it possible to swap a 97-99 airbag in while doing the conversion?

 

You are wrong, I did this conversion a while back, I even put a 2k3 Altima steering wheel and airbag in and there is no fitment issues at all, I will have pics next week for you too if you want to see this tite swap.

 

i too am interested in a swap, im less concerned about airbags cause mine is gone anyway, is it direct bolt on

 

wait, do you mean airbag from new wheel isnt compatible in the car or the old airbag isnt compatible with new wheel, because the latter makes sense

 

I have been intrested in this for a while

 

yes i would like to know as well...

 

this swap has been done many times before here. To sum it up... YES the 97-99 steering wheel will bolt directly into a 95-96 maxima. The airbags are different but the 97-99 airbag WILL work in a 95-96. As far as the cruise controls and what not i dont have a clue...

Ant

 

96 airbag isn't compatible with 97 wheel and vice versa. Unless you can get a cheap air bag there is no point as they cost hundreds of dollars most of the time.

 

Airbags alone costs over $200, plus a decent used steering wheel. Get a new steering wheel and you can get yourself a nice suspension setup for the money you are going to spend on look and feel. I'd rather spend it on performance if you ask me.

 

thanks josephmaxima96.. make sure to hit me with that link to the pics and stuff.. i really am ready to do it as long as I can get the airbag without it breaking my pocket..

 

Depends on your wallet's breaking point, if its $400 and up, then you will get this done.

 

would a possible approach be to trade my existing 95 airbag perhaps with $ difference with a 97-99 bag from a salvage yard?

 

^bump......

 

I've tried doing all this and finally gave up after realizing that the expense just simply won't justify the end result....which is pretty much the same steering wheel, just slightly different. Junkyards still charge a lot, but less than a dealer would. The airbag is what complicates things. But if you are willing to give that up and could stand seeing the airbag light stay on you while you drive, then you are better off with an aftermarket steering wheel for a lot less.

 

so much for that thought. too expensive and too many complications.

 

I looked into this as well when i first got my max. Because I hate my ugly steering wheel. But I found out it just isnt really worth it for the conversion. Airbags are way to expensive. A friend's car was actaully broken into and everything was untouched except for the airbags.

 

Thanks for all the input guys.. I think it is a no go for me..

 

Just do what this guy did, http://forums.maxima.org/showpost.ph...37&postcount=1 . I did the same but mine isn't leather. It's the slip on type and its not like those bulky kind. Mine is pretty smooth looking and is not so big that it makes the steering wheel look like a big donut. Got it from Kragen for $5. Look around.

 

good thought alc252dm.. I will look into it..