Peugeot Citroen

A: In vehicle steering systems, a clock spring or clockspring is a spiral-wound special rotary electrical conductor which allows a vehicle's steering wheel to turn while maintaining the connection between the airbag mounted in the wheel and/or the vehicle's horn and other devices, and the vehicle's electrical system.

A: The airbag clock spring is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle. On some older models, the wiring inside the clock spring can become brittle and break over time, causing failure.

A: Tools required for removal and installation of clock spring: Small flat-blade screwdriver • Pick • 21mm socket or driver • Pliers • Phillips head screwdriver PLEASE WEAR SAFETY GLASSES!

A: A clock spring goes bad primarily due to normal wear and tear from repeated steering wheel rotations, which damages the ribbon of wires inside. Other causes include steering wheel over-rotation (often from a damaged steering linkage), which exceeds the spring's limits and snaps the internal components. Less common factors are a vehicle accident that can overheat and damage connectors, or manufacturing defects.

A: Replacing a clock spring may seem daunting, but it's not overly complicated. If you have all the necessary tools, including a steering wheel puller, I believe it can be completed in a few hours.

A: Power steering issues are another sign of a broken clock spring. This is because the power steering system relies on hydraulic fluid delivered to the steering rack through a pump. Crucially, this pump is powered via a current through the clock spring.