It's not a major work at all. They have to disconnec the negative battery cable, remove the steering pad( air bag), remove the steering wheel, remove the steering covers and the spiral cable is right there.

 

I can second that. I had to remove the airbag and the steering wheel to install the 01 wheel. It wasn't rocket science and didn't take too long.

 

Just thought I'd bump this thread up to let you know that I've been having a whining noise coming from the steering wheel of my ES, esp. on cold mornings. Took it to the dealership a few days ago, they took a look at the problem, and said that it's coming from the rubber boot behind the steering column. They lubricated it while turning the wheel on all directions, and now there is no more noise. For peace of mind, they also checked the P/S fluid and pump, and said they're in good condition.

So there you have it, the solution to the steering wheel squeaking problem

 

Our CPO 2002 RX-300 steering wheel is also making noise. When we take it for its complimentary 3000 mile oil change, I am going to ask them to fix it.