Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Restraints System (Service Information): CLOCKSPRING: Operation
The clock spring is used to maintain a continuous electrical circuit between the fixed instrument panel wire harness and the electrical components mounted on or in the rotating steering wheel. The rotating electrical components include the driver airbag and the horn switch.
The clock spring rotor is movable and is keyed by an engagement dowel that is molded onto the rotor hub between two fins that are cast into the lower surface of the steering wheel armature.
Like the clock spring in a timepiece, the clock spring tape has travel limits and can be damaged by being wound too tightly during full stop-to-stop steering wheel rotation. To prevent this from occurring, the clock spring is centered when it is installed on the steering column. Centering the clock spring indexes the clock spring tape to the movable steering components so that the tape can operate within its designed travel limits. However, if the clock spring is removed from the steering column or if the steering shaft is disconnected from the steering gear, the clock spring spool can change position relative to the movable steering components. The clock spring must be re-centered following completion of this service or the tape may be damaged. The clock spring must be properly centered when it is installed on the steering column following any service removal or it will be damaged. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCK SPRING - STANDARD PROCEDURE) .
The clock spring cannot be repaired. If the clock spring is faulty, damaged or if the airbag has been deployed, the clock spring must be replaced.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.