This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the clock spring assembly on a 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L, which is necessary when experiencing airbag warning lights or non-functioning steering wheel controls.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Clock spring assembly × 1 — Kia OEM 93490-A7000 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
2. Turn front wheels to straight-ahead position and verify alignment
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal, then positive terminal
4. Wait minimum 3 minutes for SRS system capacitors to discharge
5. Secure steering wheel in straight position using wire tie through wheel and seat rail to prevent rotation
6. Lower steering column to lowest position for better access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove upper and lower steering column covers
   Locate and remove the screws securing the upper and lower steering column covers. There are typically 3-4 screws on the underside of the lower cover. Gently separate the covers by releasing the plastic retaining clips using a panel tool. Remove both covers and set aside.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove driver airbag module
   From the rear of the steering wheel, locate the two Torx bolts securing the airbag module (one on each side). Use a T40 Torx driver to remove both bolts. Carefully pull the airbag module straight back from the steering wheel. Disconnect the airbag electrical connector by pressing the release tab. Disconnect the horn connector if equipped. Place airbag module face-up on a clean, padded surface away from work area.
   ⚠️Keep hands and body clear of airbag deployment zone while removing module.
   Torque spec

   Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Mark and remove steering wheel
   Before removal, use masking tape or paint marker to mark the steering wheel position relative to the steering shaft for proper alignment during reinstallation. Disconnect any remaining electrical connectors for cruise control or other steering wheel controls. Remove the steering wheel retaining nut using appropriate socket. Thread the nut back on 2-3 turns to protect threads. Use a steering wheel puller to separate wheel from shaft. Remove nut completely and remove steering wheel, feeding wiring through center opening.
   ⚠Do not strike steering wheel or shaft with hammer. Use proper steering wheel puller to prevent damage.
   Torque spec

   Steering Wheel Nut54 Nm (40 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect clock spring electrical connectors
   Locate the clock spring electrical connectors. There are typically two connectors: one for the airbag circuit and one for steering wheel controls. Press the release tabs and carefully disconnect both connectors. Note the routing and position of wiring for reassembly.
5. 5

   Mark clock spring alignment
   Before removing the clock spring, verify the front wheels are still straight and the clock spring is centered. The clock spring should have visible alignment marks (typically arrows or dots on the rotor and housing). Use masking tape to mark the current rotational position between the clock spring housing and the steering column. Take a photo for reference if possible.
   ⚠Accurate alignment marking is critical. Misaligned clock spring will cause premature failure or incorrect operation.
6. 6

   Remove clock spring assembly
   Remove the screws securing the clock spring to the steering column. These are typically 3-4 small screws around the perimeter of the clock spring housing. Carefully pull the clock spring assembly straight off the steering column shaft, keeping it level to avoid binding. Note the position of any locating pins or tabs.
   Torque spec

   Clock Spring Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Prepare and install new clock spring
   Remove new clock spring from packaging. Verify it is in the centered position (most come with a locking pin or tape holding center position). If not locked, carefully center it by rotating gently until it stops in both directions, then return to center. Remove any shipping locks or tape. Align the clock spring with the locating pins on the steering column and slide it onto the shaft, ensuring proper engagement with the column.
   ⚠️Do not remove centering lock or tape from new clock spring until after installation is complete and steering wheel is installed.
8. 8

   Secure clock spring to column
   Align the clock spring screw holes with the column mounting points. Install all clock spring mounting screws and tighten in a cross pattern to specified torque. Ensure the clock spring sits flush against the column with no gaps. Verify alignment marks still match and wheels are straight.
   Torque spec

   Clock Spring Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect clock spring electrical connectors
   Route the wiring harness connectors to their proper positions. Connect both electrical connectors to the clock spring, ensuring they click fully into place. Verify connectors are secure by gently tugging on them. Route wiring away from moving parts and ensure no pinch points.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering wheel
    Remove centering lock or tape from clock spring if still present. Feed the airbag and control wiring through the center of the steering wheel. Align the steering wheel with the marks made during disassembly and with the shaft splines. Slide the wheel onto the shaft ensuring proper spline engagement. Install the steering wheel nut and torque to specification. Connect all steering wheel electrical connectors for cruise control and other functions.
    Torque spec

    Steering Wheel Nut54 Nm (40 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall airbag module
    Connect the horn connector if equipped, then connect the airbag electrical connector to the back of the airbag module. Ensure connector locks securely. Position the airbag module into the steering wheel, aligning the mounting holes. Install both Torx mounting bolts and torque to specification in an even, alternating pattern. Verify module sits flush in wheel with even gaps all around.
    Torque spec

    Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the lower steering column cover and engage the mounting clips. Place the upper cover and align all tabs and clips. Install all cover screws and tighten to specification. Verify covers are secure and properly aligned with no gaps.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Remove steering wheel securing device. Verify wheels are still straight. Reconnect positive battery terminal first, then negative terminal. Torque battery terminal bolts to specification if equipped. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. The airbag warning light should illuminate for 6-8 seconds then extinguish. If light remains on or flashes, there may be a fault requiring scan tool diagnosis.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall components in reverse order of removal, following torque specifications exactly
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Verify steering wheel is centered with wheels straight before final tightening
4. Do not rotate steering wheel beyond normal lock-to-lock range until all components are installed

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify airbag warning light illuminates briefly then extinguishes (6-8 seconds)
• Start engine and turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary to verify no binding or unusual noises from clock spring
• Test all steering wheel controls including horn, cruise control, audio controls, and any other buttons
• With engine running, turn steering wheel to verify power steering operates normally
• Test drive vehicle and verify no airbag warning light, all steering wheel functions work correctly
• If airbag light remains illuminated, use scan tool to retrieve codes and verify clock spring circuit resistance is within specification (typically 2-3 ohms)

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