Can someone tell me how the steering wheel control panels come off? I want to paint the panels (but not the buttons) to match the exterior. I can't clearly see how they come off and I'm afraid I might crack the panels just yanking on them. I'm hoping the whole wheel doesn't have to come off.
Thanks!

 

I have the shop manual on CD. I'll take a look on there and see if the diagram is on it and send pics of them. Back in a few....

 

I have the docs you need, however it looks like you have to remove the airbag to get those panels out. I can send you the pages if you still like, but I'd be very cautious about messing with the airbag. Let me know...pm me your email address if you want the pages.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I wouldn't mind seeing the pages, but if the airbag really has to come off, I won't be going there.
I'll Pm you.

 

airbag doesnt need to come off dont worry...there are the piano black ones from japanparts.com that say it pops out and you pop the other ones in

 

Hey kid, i would be careful painting your interior unless you have experience. I had a honda civic that i had painted the interior on and the paint kept chipping off. Not to mention that the pieces that i took off never really fit back the same. If you can do it than more power to you but i would take it to someone if you can.

 

hey kid...um...be nice!

but here check out this stuff...it isn't a paint so to speak more of a dye that changes the pigmentation of plastics, etc...will not chip since there is nothing to chip...it soaks in...talk to whealy his car is beautiful blue and no problems (maybe the shift **** but I'm not sure ask him)

if a few of you want this stuff I bet thew from rx8garage.net could get it: https://www.mimousa.com/home.asp?dir...cat=4&prod=357

 

That's cool if they really do pop off. The service manual shows how to remove the switches, but doesn't say anything about the panels popping off. Rather it looks like a solid wired unit from the drawing. Anyone had any experience in taking them off? I'd hate to see someone break such a visible part..... ha ha I guess that would bring this back to his original question.....

 

I appreciate everyone's input. That's exactly what I'm afraid I'll do. I don't want the panels hanging in my lap by the wires and I definitely don't want to know what Mazda charges for a new one.
Thanks from a 39 y/o "kid"