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.
Contact Assembly (CLOCKSPRING)
On vehicles with air bag, the contact assembly contains a clockspring, providing a constant path for electrical current between air bag module and air bag system control devices. Clockspring function is similar to horn slip ring and brush assembly, but provides a more positive connection.
Clockspring will be damaged if steering shaft is allowed to rotate after steering shaft has been disconnected from intermediate shaft. When disconnecting steering shaft from intermediate shaft, wire steering shaft to column to prevent clockspring damage. If reusing original contact assembly, tape clockspring rotor in stationary position before removing contact assembly from steering column. See Fig 1 .
A locking insert is installed in replacement contact assembly to prevent rotation of clockspring. DO NOT remove locking insert until contact assembly is installed on steering column.
For more information on air bag system, see AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section.
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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.