Steering column cover removal NOT asked/answered
 

I drive a 2009 Saturn Outlook, and I am having extreme difficulty trying to figure out and how to remove that housing unit that is located behind the steering column cover which is preventing me from being able to remove the covers gaining access to the ignition switch reset/release button. PLEASE will someone tell me either what that thing is called or how to remove it, so that I can get on with what I need to get done
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.sat...1d9871d16c.jpg

I have no idea what that is called other than a trim piece, BUT I think if you get the 2 blue pieces (upper and lower cover) separated and out of the way, that piece will come off. Looks like it should slide forward and pull up. I'm not sure. Do you have all of the screws out of the blue pieces? If not, you have to get those out first. There MIGHT be a round plastic piece around the key cylinder that has to come out too. Be careful prying it out as it has some plastic tabs on it.

I am not able to remove the cover because whatever that thing is, fits almost snuggly around the tail end of the upper and lower cover. Which is why I was so hoping someone could help explain how to get that thing off without having to cut it off. And I have researched for almost a day and a half, and still have zero answers. But Thank you, for your response

I wish I could be of more help, but I've never even looked inside and Outlook. They're rare around here where I live. Mostly Ford and Chevy people in the hood, with Ford being the dominant choice. I also searched and couldn't find diddly about the Outlook. Maybe you'd be more successful if either of us could think of the Opel name that is the same vehicle?

Your Outlook is related to the GMC Acadia and a couple other GM models. The piece you are fighting appears to be a trim panel that moves up and down with the tilt column. If it will not slide toward the dash you might have to drop the column to get clearance. I would review the other GM based forums that have the sister models of your car. Good luck!

Hey Roger, you never did answer when I asked if you'd completely removed the upper and lower steering wheel covers. If not, do it. That way you might see how that piece comes out. If so, then my apologies.

Thank you Everyone
 

Just wanted to Thank y'all that responded, I was finally able to figure it out... totally accidentally. The steering column itself moves forward and backwards, allowing you to pull the steering wheel towards yourself. Once done that, then the covers themselves have the clearance to be removed. Total pain in the bottom, design flaw.

I can't remember the last time I remembered that my steering wheel probably telescopes. Good job.

Glad to hear you got it figured out and thanks for letting us know!