What to Do If the Steering Wheel Clock Spring Gets Twisted?
2 Answers
Straighten the steering wheel, remove the airbag, and then take off the steering wheel. At this point, you can freely rotate the clock spring. Count how many full turns it can make, and then rotate it back to the middle position. Ensure that when the steering wheel is turned to the full left or right lock, the wiring harness is not pulled to the point of breaking. Therefore, leave some slack in the wiring harness to prevent it from being pulled apart when the steering wheel is turned to its limits.
I've encountered the issue of a misaligned steering wheel clock spring several times. It's best not to tamper with it, as the clock spring is that coiled ribbon cable beneath the steering wheel, connecting critical systems like the airbag and audio controls. If you keep turning the steering wheel, you might twist or snap the wires—minor issues could lead to button failures, while major ones might disable the airbag, making driving extremely dangerous. My advice is to stop the car immediately and contact a professional auto repair shop. Mechanics typically disassemble the steering wheel for inspection, and in most cases, the entire clock spring assembly needs replacement, costing a few hundred bucks and done quickly. For prevention, avoid removing the steering wheel unnecessarily or have it installed by experienced technicians. During regular maintenance, ask the staff to check the cable tension. Most importantly, don’t cut corners by going to roadside stalls—safety comes first. Attempting DIY fixes is a big no-no and often makes things worse. I’ve seen people damage more components, ending up paying extra. In short, seeking professional help promptly is the smartest move—don’t delay.
