DODGE

Safely Connect Cables Between the Steering Wheel and Steering Column

Because the cables for the cruise control, airbag system, horn, and other functions are often found on a steering wheel, something has to connect those cables from the steering column to the steering wheel.

Enables The Horn to Function

You should never drive without certain things, and a working horn is one of them. Because the clock spring is responsible for transmitting signals from the steering wheel buttons to the car’s computer, it is the part that allows you to beep the horn.

Enables the Airbag

While the horn is one of the essential parts of any vehicle for safety reasons, the airbag is equally essential, and a clock spring allows an airbag to deploy. Because the clock spring transmits signals from the steering wheel to the car computer, if it ever breaks, the computer will not know to deploy the airbag when the situation calls for it.

Allows the Steering Wheel to Turn Smoothly

A clock spring does not directly affect the actual turning of a steering wheel to a serious degree, but it does still play a factor. If a clock spring is going bad or breaks, you will sometimes experience a rubbing or clicking sound when you turn the steering wheel.

Sends Signal to the Throttle Position Sensor

The throttle position sensor is responsible for maintaining the appropriate amount of airflow to the engine’s intake manifold by checking the throttle valve. A clock spring plays a role in this process, and if it goes bad, there is a chance that it will send electrical spikes to the throttle position sensor and cause problems.