Do you need to reset the clock spring?
Install the steering wheel. Setting the clock spring (centering the clock spring) is very simple and should be completed with care. Note that some vehicles integrate the steering angle sensor into the clock spring. If your vehicle has an integrated steering angle sensor, you will need to reset the clock spring/steering angle sensor.
How much does it cost to replace a clock spring?
Clock springs are relatively inexpensive, running between $50 and $200 depending on the vehicle. Labor is fairly straightforward and should take 1-2 hours; expect to pay up to $300 in labor. If you attempt to replace the clock spring yourself, it is very important that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safely disabling the airbag.
Where does the clock spring get its name?
This device is sometimes referred to as a spiral cable, airbag clock spring, steering wheel clock spring, clock spring assembly, cable reel, or contact reel, depending on the vehicle and where you live. The clock spring is not really a spring at all, but it gets its name from the look of the coiled ribbon inside the housing.
What happens if you spin the clock spring?
If you were to spin the clock spring a rotation or two and then reinstall it, you may not have enough slack in the internal ribbon before the steering wheel hits full lock. In this case, you run the risk of stretching or breaking the internal wires and damaging a perfectly good clock spring.
When do clock springs need to be replaced?
If the car is dr4iven often, with a lot turning the steering wheel back and forth, the clock spring can fail within the first 80,000 miles. The replacement of clock springs can be do-it-yourself job or you can take it to the repair garage.
Where is the clock spring on a car?
The clock spring is usually located on the steering column behind the steering wheel. Almost every road going vehicle with a steering wheel has one of these devices. However, if your vehicle has no airbag, steering wheel controls, or horn buttons, you may not have a clock spring.
Can a broken clock spring affect the steering wheel?
Typically a broken clock spring only affects components that are attached to the steering wheel. This is because the clock spring is a special wire that allows the connection to be maintained as the steering wheel rotates. If the turn signals are mounted on the steering column, they are probably not affected by a bad clock spring.
What are the symptoms of a bad clock spring?
Diagnosing a bad clock spring can often be pretty straightforward, depending on the symptoms. You may notice several seemingly unrelated issues, such as steering wheel buttons that don’t work accompanied with an airbag warning light.