How an Airbag Clock Spring Works and the Symptoms When It Fails
About this video
How does an airbag clock spring work, and what are the signs of a bad one? In this video, an ASE certified mechanic explains what the clock spring does, how it keeps the driver airbag, horn, and steering wheel buttons connected while the wheel turns, and the symptoms you may notice when it fails. This is a general guide that applies to most makes and models, including Honda, Toyota, Ford, Dodge, Jeep, Chevrolet, Nissan, Hyundai, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
The clock spring is also called a spiral cable, airbag coil, cable reel, or SRS coil assembly. It sits behind the steering wheel at the top of the steering column, and inside it is a flat ribbon cable that winds and unwinds as you turn the wheel.
WHAT WE COVER
What the clock spring is and where it is located behind the steering wheel
How the ribbon cable inside winds and unwinds to keep a constant electrical connection
What runs through the clock spring: the driver airbag, horn, cruise control buttons, audio and phone controls, and on some vehicles the heated steering wheel and paddle shifters
Why clock springs fail from age and mileage, and why they often get damaged during steering or suspension repairs if the wheel is turned with the column disconnected
SYMPTOMS OF A BAD CLOCK SPRING
Airbag or SRS warning light on and staying on
Horn not working, or only working in certain steering wheel positions
Cruise control, radio, or phone buttons on the steering wheel not responding
Heated steering wheel not working
Clicking, rubbing, or grinding noise from behind the steering wheel when turning
Problems that come and go as you turn the wheel
RELATED FAULT CODES AND WARNING LIGHTS
A failed clock spring commonly sets driver airbag squib circuit codes for an open circuit or high resistance in the driver squib loop. Depending on the make, you may see codes such as B0001, B0012, or B0100, along with a Service Air Bag or SRS Malfunction message on the dash. Keep in mind that the driver airbag may not deploy in a crash while the airbag light is on, so this is a safety repair that should not be put off.
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