Pontiac Repair: DS Steering Wheel Removal, signal flasher, upper column

Question
Hey Todd,
How do you remove the steering wheel & air-bag assembly from a 2001 Grand-AM?  Cannot see any fasteners on the back-side of the wheel.

The reason I'm removing it, is because the signal flasher (above the radio) keeps clicking sporatically without touching the signal lever on the steering column.  The turn signal lights work fine when actuated with the lever, however this clicking sound occurs randomly whenever the TS are off. I replaced the flasher assembly and it made no difference.  The turn signal lights do not light when this random clicking occurs.  It is nothing more than an annoyance.  Anyway, I'm thinking that dirt or wear in the TS switch is the cuplrit.

Answer
Hi Colin:

You 100% correct as to what the issue is the contacts in the t/s switch are bad it's not repairable it needs the multi-function switch assembly. You can replace it without removing the steering wheel remove the upper column jacket and remove the retaining screw for the switch the the column. then with a twisting motion from the reat of the switch lift it upwards and out. to install the switch do the same thing BUt make sure the contatct for the horn is behind the cancel cam you will see what I'm talking about when you get it apart use a pocket screw driver and press the switch contact inwatd then while it's depressed reverse the motion for the removal to insert the new switch back onto the column. It may need the use of one other person'r hand to get it done right. That way you don't need to rent the special tool needed to get the steering wheel off. The bag has spring clips that hold it in and they are a paint to release and they need a special tool as well. Do what I said any you will be okay. Good luck :-)