If you’ve ever experienced strange issues with your steering wheel controls, airbag light, or even unusual horn behavior, you might be dealing with a bad clock spring. This small yet crucial component is often overlooked, but when it fails, it can compromise your vehicle’s safety and functionality.
At Aus Auto Store, we know that spotting the common signs of a bad clock spring early can save you from bigger, costlier repairs later.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the symptoms, causes, and solutions for a failing clock spring, so you’ll know exactly what to look for and when it’s time for a replacement.
What is a Clock Spring and Why is It Important?
Before diving into the signs of failure, it’s essential to understand what a clock spring actually does.
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Definition: A clock spring, also called a spiral cable or coil spring, is a wound electrical connector located inside your steering wheel assembly.
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Function: It maintains the electrical connection between the steering wheel and the vehicle’s systems, allowing you to use the horn, airbag, and steering wheel controls while still being able to turn the wheel freely.
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Importance: Without it, critical safety features like airbags won’t deploy properly, and convenience features like audio or cruise control may stop functioning.
Think of the clock spring as the “lifeline” between your steering wheel and the car’s electronics.
Common Signs of a Bad Clock Spring
When a clock spring starts to fail, it doesn’t always go unnoticed. Here are the most common symptoms of a bad clock spring to keep an eye on:
1. Airbag Warning Light on the Dashboard
One of the first red flags is often the airbag light.
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The airbag system relies on the clock spring for electrical connectivity.
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A broken or damaged clock spring disrupts this connection, causing the airbag warning light to illuminate.
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This isn’t something you can ignore—your airbags may not deploy during a collision, putting you at risk.
Pro tip: If your airbag light turns on right after you hear a clicking noise from your steering wheel, there’s a strong chance your clock spring is the culprit.
2. Non-Functional Steering Wheel Buttons
Modern cars are equipped with steering wheel buttons for audio, cruise control, Bluetooth, and other features.
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If these buttons suddenly stop working, the clock spring could be broken.
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Sometimes the failure is partial (e.g., only audio buttons fail), but often multiple controls will stop responding.
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This is especially frustrating on long drives when you rely on these controls for convenience and safety.
3. Horn Issues
A faulty clock spring often leads to horn problems:
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Horn doesn’t work at all: This is the most common issue.
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Horn works intermittently: Sometimes it works when the wheel is straight but not when turned.
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Horn blows continuously: In rare cases, a short inside the clock spring can cause the horn to sound non-stop.
Since the horn is a vital safety tool, this symptom should never be ignored.
4. Strange Noises When Turning the Wheel
A damaged or worn clock spring can cause:
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Clicking, grinding, or rubbing noises when you turn the wheel.
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Resistance in the wheel when turning, which feels unnatural.
These noises are the physical result of the clock spring’s internal ribbon cable being twisted or broken.
5. Airbag Deployment Failure
Perhaps the most serious sign of all is when the airbag fails to deploy in a crash.
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This is typically due to a completely severed connection in the clock spring.
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Unfortunately, you won’t know about this failure until it’s too late, which is why paying attention to earlier warning signs is critical.
6. Illumination or Electrical Malfunctions
In some vehicles, a failing clock spring can cause issues such as:
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Dashboard lights flickering.
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Unusual error codes when scanned with a diagnostic tool.
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Steering wheel-mounted illumination failing.
These may not seem directly connected, but the clock spring plays a major role in electrical continuity.
Causes of a Bad Clock Spring
Knowing why a clock spring goes bad can help you prevent it from happening prematurely:
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Wear and tear: Over time, the ribbon cable inside the clock spring simply wears out due to repeated wheel turns.
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Improper installation: If the steering wheel is removed and the clock spring isn’t re-centered, it can break.
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Accidents or impacts: Even minor collisions can damage the delicate wiring inside the spring.
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Moisture or dirt contamination: Exposure to elements can corrode the internal components.
How to Diagnose a Faulty Clock Spring
If you suspect your clock spring is faulty, here’s how you can confirm it:
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Visual Inspection
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Remove the steering wheel cover and inspect for visible damage.
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Look for frayed cables or broken plastic housing.
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Check with a Scan Tool
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Many vehicles will store diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to airbag or steering controls.
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Codes like “B1801” or “Airbag squib circuit open” often indicate a bad clock spring.
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Test Steering Wheel Functions
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Check horn, buttons, and controls systematically.
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Note which ones fail—it often helps pinpoint the break in continuity.
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What Happens If You Ignore a Bad Clock Spring?
Driving with a bad clock spring is risky. Here’s why:
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Compromised safety: Airbags may not deploy in an accident.
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Loss of essential controls: Horn and steering wheel buttons stop working.
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Worsening damage: Ignoring the issue can lead to further electrical failures.
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Legal and compliance issues: In some regions, a faulty airbag system will fail roadworthy inspections.
Replacing a Bad Clock Spring
The good news is that replacing a clock spring is usually straightforward:
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Cost: Depending on your vehicle, parts can range from $100–$500 AUD.
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DIY vs. Professional: While some car owners replace it themselves, professional installation ensures proper re-centering and avoids airbag mishandling.
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Where to Buy: At Aus Auto Store, you’ll find a wide range of replacement parts, including Clock Springs for Toyota models. These are engineered to meet OEM standards and guarantee both safety and durability.
💡 Tip: Always disconnect your car’s battery before attempting any work on the clock spring to avoid accidental airbag deployment.
Aus Auto Store: Your Trusted Source for Clock Springs
At Aus Auto Store, we specialize in OEM-quality clock springs and other auto parts at competitive prices.
Whether you need Clock Springs for Nissan, steering wheel components for another make, or any other automotive part, we provide vehicle-specific options to ensure the perfect fit. With fast shipping across Australia and excellent customer service, you can shop with confidence.
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore the Signs of a Bad Clock Spring
The common signs of a bad clock spring—such as airbag lights, non-functional buttons, horn issues, and strange noises—are more than just annoyances. They’re clear warnings that your safety systems may be compromised.
If you notice any of these symptoms, get your car inspected immediately and replace the faulty clock spring without delay. At Aus Auto Store, we stock reliable parts including Clock Spring for Mitsubishi, Toyota, Nissan, and many more makes. That way, you can get back on the road safely and affordably.
FAQs About Bad Clock Springs
1. Can I drive with a bad clock spring?
Technically, yes—but it’s unsafe. Your airbags may not deploy, and you may lose access to essential steering wheel functions.
2. How long does a clock spring last?
Most clock springs last the lifetime of the vehicle, but frequent use, improper installation, or accidents can shorten their lifespan.
3. How do I know if my clock spring is bad or if it’s another issue?
Use a diagnostic scanner. Airbag-related error codes combined with failed steering wheel functions often point directly to a faulty clock spring.
4. Is replacing a clock spring expensive?
Not necessarily. While dealership prices can be high, aftermarket or OEM-equivalent replacements from suppliers like Aus Auto Store are much more affordable.
5. Can I replace a clock spring myself?
If you have experience with steering wheel removal and airbag systems, yes. However, most drivers prefer professional replacement to avoid mistakes.