Abstract: A steering wheel assembly includes a bracket and a spring. At least one arm of the spring is inserted through a first aperture and a second aperture. The arm extends across a hole for receiving a connection pin of an airbag module. The spring retains itself on the bracket without the need for separate fasteners. In the disclosed embodiment, the spring is U-shaped and includes two such arms, each extending through one of a pair of first apertures and one of a pair of second apertures, each arm extending across one of a pair of holes for receiving a connection pin.

Abstract: A steering wheel assembly includes an armature having spokes over which a spoke ends of a steering wheel are molded. A back cover connects to the armature and the steering wheel. A trim plate snap-fits directly to the spoke ends of the steering wheel and to the back cover, without connecting directly to the armature. Because the trim plates are directly connected to the same two components with which the trim plates must provide proper fit and finish, proper fit and finish is ensured.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bracket that connects an airbag subassembly to a support structure, such as a steering wheel armature. The bracket generally has a base formed from a material and at least two retention members extending from the base wherein the retention members are formed integral with and from the same material as the base. The present invention is also directed a method of forming the bracket.