Information on Clock Spring Alignment

The purpose of this bulletin is to inform dealers of the correct clock spring alignment procedure in order to avoid misalignment of the clock spring when it is installed.

An analysis of returned parts from vehicles indicates that the cable of the clock spring may have broken due to improper alignment of the clock spring when the steering wheel is installed after repairs.

If the clock spring cable is broken, the airbag warning indicator may illuminate and the driver airbag and horn may be inoperative. The root cause of broken clock spring cables may be improper alignment of the clock spring when the steering wheel is installed.

To prevent the clock spring from being improperly aligned, perform the following clock spring alignment procedure whenever installing a steering wheel.

Clock Spring Alignment Procedure

Caution: If the clock spring is not properly aligned, the steering wheel may not be able to rotate completely during a turn. Restricted turning ability can cause the vehicle to crash, which may result in personal injury.

Caution: Improper alignment of the clock spring may also render the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) inoperative, preventing the airbag from deploying during crash, which may result in personal injury.

1. Turn the front wheels straight ahead.
2. Turn the lobe of the clock spring clockwise to lock. Do not force it.
3. Turn the lobe of the clock spring counterclockwise approximately two and half turns to the neutral position with the front of the wheels straight ahead.



4. Properly align the pointed neutral position marks (light and dark triangles in the illustration) on the components of the clock spring.