Clock Spring Replacement
A failed clock spring is the most common cause of an airbag light on the steering wheel. We diagnose and replace clock springs and clear the fault.
The clock spring is a coiled ribbon cable behind the steering wheel. It keeps the driver's airbag, horn and steering wheel buttons connected while the wheel turns. Over time, or after the steering is worked on, the ribbon can crack or tear, and it is one of the most common reasons for an airbag light.
Signs of a failed clock spring
- The airbag light is on with a driver airbag circuit fault
- The horn does not work, or works only at some steering angles
- The steering wheel buttons (cruise control, audio, phone) stop working
- A clicking or rubbing noise when turning the wheel
How we replace it
We confirm the fault by testing the driver airbag circuit first, so you only pay for a clock spring if it is the cause. The airbag is then removed safely, the new clock spring fitted and centred correctly, and the steering angle sensor reset where the vehicle needs it. We finish by clearing the codes and checking the airbag light goes out.
What affects clock spring replacement cost?
- The price of the clock spring for your vehicle. Some are a separate part, others come as part of a steering column switch assembly.
- Whether the steering angle sensor is built into the clock spring and needs calibrating or coding afterwards
- Whether the clock spring is really the cause. We test the driver airbag circuit first, so you do not pay for a clock spring you did not need.
We confirm the cause and give you the price before ordering the part.
Can I replace a clock spring myself?
It involves removing the driver's airbag, which can injure you if it deploys while you are handling it. The new clock spring must also be centred correctly, or it will tear the first time the wheel is turned to full lock, and many modern cars need the steering angle sensor calibrated afterwards. It is a job for someone with the right procedure and equipment.
Same visit, no towing
Clock spring replacement is usually done on site in one visit anywhere across Melbourne. If the airbag light has another cause, we will find it during the SRS diagnosis. See all our airbag and SRS services.
Clock Spring Replacement: common questions
What is a clock spring in a car?
A coiled ribbon cable behind the steering wheel that keeps the driver's airbag, horn and steering wheel buttons connected while the wheel turns. It is also called a clockspring, spiral cable or squib coil.
How much does clock spring replacement cost?
It depends on the vehicle, the price of the part and whether the steering angle sensor needs calibrating afterwards. We test the airbag circuit first and give you the price before ordering the part.
Is it safe to drive with a faulty clock spring?
The driver's airbag may not deploy in a crash, and the horn may not work, so have it fixed as soon as you can.
How long does clock spring replacement take?
It is usually done on site in a single visit, once the correct part is on hand.
Does a new clock spring need coding?
Some vehicles need the steering angle sensor calibrated or coded after a clock spring is replaced, especially where the sensor is built into the clock spring. We do this as part of the job.
Our Service Guarantee
All work comes with our comprehensive warranty on parts and labor. We use quality components and provide factory-quality installations with professional documentation.