VW Clock Spring & Steering Angle Sensor Replacement

The clock spring and steering angle sensor on most VWs are integrated into one part and must be replaced as one unit. If replacing the clock spring and steering angle sensor, follow the step-by-step procedures below.

Symptoms

Here are some symptoms you may notice when you have a bad VW clock spring or steering angle sensor.

• The airbag light stays on
• Horn won’t work
• Traction control/stability control light on
• ABS light stays on
• Cruise control won’t work.
• The steering wheel buttons don’t work.

Depending on which part fails, you may notice one of these problems or may have several issues.

What you will need

• M12 Triple Square Bit
• Ratchet Wrench or Breaker Bar
• Screwdriver
• Work Gloves
• Thread lock
• Torx bit set
• Torque wrench

Instructions

Here is how to change a Volkswagen’s clock spring and steering angle sensor.

1. Make sure the front wheels are pointing forward. 
2. Open the hood and disconnect the battery. You should do this while keeping the ignition on or in position I; otherwise, the steering wheel will lock up, and you won’t be able to turn the steering wheel.
3. Wait 15 minutes before you proceed to the next step.
4. Remove the upper trim on the steering wheel column. In most cases, it will lift. Usually, there are only clips, no screws. Release the airbag. Turn the steering wheel to bring the left hole on the left of the steering wheel to the top. Insert a screwdriver in the hole on the back of the steering wheel and release the airbag. 
5. Do the same on the other side of the steering wheel to completely release the airbag. Keep your body at least one foot away from the airbag. Airbags may deploy while working on the vehicle and cause injuries or damage. Removing the airbag can be tricky and requires patience. For more help with this step, follow our detailed guide on how to remove a VW airbag.
6. Disconnect the airbag wires and carefully put the airbag to the side. 
7. Use an M12 triple square bit to loosen and remove the round bolt that holds the steering wheel. 
8. Mark the steering column and shaft to reinstall the steering wheel in the same location.
9. Remove the steering wheel from the steering column by pulling it towards you. 
10. Remove the lower plastic trim that covers the steering column. Remove the three Torx bit screws that secure the lower trim. 
11. Remove the screws that hold the clock spring. 
12. Unplug the electrical connector from the clock spring. Make sure to press on the connector tab to be able to release, then pull the connector out.
13. Remove the clock spring from the steering column by pulling it out. 
14. Install the new clock spring in reverse order. Before you reinstall the clock spring, find the center of the new clock spring. Turn the clock spring to the left, then turn it to the right and count the revolutions. Typically, you will have five revolutions. Come back 2.5 revolutions to set the clock spring on center.
15. Install the steering wheel in reverse order. Fit a new steering wheel bolt if your model calls for one (many later VWs use a single use bolt), otherwise use thread lock, and tighten it to the service manual torque.
16. Reconnect the airbag and press it on the steering wheel to install it.
17. Reconnect the battery.
18. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel to the left and right several times to reset the stability control or any other warning lights that may have come on.

In most cases, turning the steering to the left and right will reset the steering angle sensor. If this procedure fails, you must reset the VW steering angle sensor with a VW scanner.

The YOUCANIC UCAN-II Pro can read and clear fault codes in the engine and other control modules on supported vehicles.

Even though the pictures are from a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta, the instructions will help you change the clock spring on the VW Golf, Eos, Passat, Rabit, GTI, Routan, Tiguan, etc. The procedure is very similar to all Volkswagens. The main difference will be the step on how to release the airbag.

Torque Specs

• Steering wheel bolt to the steering column: 50 Nm

How much does replacing a VW clock spring/steering angle sensor cost?

The average price to change a clock spring and steering angle sensor at an auto repair shop ranges between $300 and $500. The average price to change a VW clock spring (excluding tools) is between $40 and $100.

How do I know my VW clock spring is bad?

Your airbag light may have a code for the driver’s airbag. The horn won’t work; the steering wheel buttons won’t work.

Can I drive with a bad VW clock spring?

You can, but we wouldn’t recommend it because the driver’s airbag may not deploy if you get involved in an accident.

Does a VW clock spring have to be replaced?

It can be reused if faulty, and the clock spring is still good.

Does a VW clock spring need programming?

No. After you install a VW clock spring, it will work. You need to set the clock spring properly, and steering angle calibration may be done to reset the steering angle sensor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a new VW clock spring need centering?

Yes. Center it by counting the total turns from lock to lock and setting it halfway, unless the new part is locked in the center position.

Does the VW steering angle sensor need calibration?

Yes. After replacing the clock spring or steering angle sensor, or after an alignment, calibrate the sensor with a scan tool so stability control works correctly.

What are signs of a bad VW clock spring?

An airbag light, a horn that does not work and steering wheel buttons that stop responding are common signs.

Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Volkswagen.

---

Related Products

---