Tool left in steering column. Can I remove?

[Njr423]

Picked up my car from the service center yesterday. They did a good job (hopefully) addressing an issue with speed restrictions caused by wiring defect.

When I got home I found an interesting tool protruding from the side of my steering column ( see photo attached). I assume they needed to remove or just the steering wheel in order to access the wiring. I have a follow-up request into service to determine if this can be easily removed causing any damage or other issues.

If anyone's familiar with it and has an easy solution please let me know

Thank you

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[Count Orlok]

is there one on the other side too? like Frankenstein's monster?

 

[SolartoEV]

Did you just wiggle it? Looks like a impact bit that probably just came out of the screw gun. Looking in that hole on my column it might just have a long shank.

 

[tate16t]

Looks like an Allen key bit (or other type) since I cannot not see the other end. It sometimes comes out of the tool it attaches to. Just pull it out. Here’s what they look like.

 

[Mandarin]

Just pull it out.

It is a typical bit they use to push levers that keep the steering wheel's airbag in place.

Watch the youtube video "how to remove airbag from steering wheel" and you will get an idea.

 

[Njr423]

Thanks everyone for the reply.

 

[Greg Chick]

I agree, just pull it out.

 

[COdogman]

I say leave it in. It might increase the resale value.

 

[Njr423]

 

[Njr423]

Did you just wiggle it? Looks like a impact bit that probably just came out of the screw gun. Looking in that hole on my column it might just have a long shank.

Thank you

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