This procedure replaces the clock spring assembly in the steering column, which enables electrical connections between the steering wheel controls and vehicle systems including the airbag.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Clock spring assembly × 1 — 84306-0R020 or equivalent OEM
• Steering wheel alignment mark tape × 1 — Use masking tape

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks at rear wheels
3. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
4. Turn steering wheel to center position with front wheels pointing straight ahead
5. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal
6. Wait minimum 90 seconds for airbag system capacitor discharge
7. Verify airbag warning light is off on instrument cluster

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver airbag module
   From the sides of the steering wheel, use T40 Torx driver to remove the two airbag module retaining bolts (accessible through holes in rear of steering wheel). Pull airbag module away from steering wheel and disconnect the electrical connector and horn connector by pressing release tabs. Place airbag module face-up in a safe location away from work area.
   Torque spec

   Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Mark steering wheel position
   Before removing steering wheel, place alignment marks on steering wheel hub and steering shaft using tape or marker. This ensures correct steering wheel position during reinstallation. Verify wheels are still pointing straight ahead.
3. 3

   Remove steering wheel
   Use 14mm socket to remove the steering wheel center nut. Install steering wheel puller and apply even pressure to remove steering wheel from shaft. Do not strike steering wheel or shaft. Remove steering wheel carefully, routing wiring harness through center opening. Support steering wheel to prevent hanging on wiring.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove steering column covers
   Remove the lower steering column cover by releasing plastic clips and removing screws. Then remove upper steering column cover in same manner. Use panel removal tool to carefully release clips without breaking them. Set covers aside in clean area.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect combination switch connectors
   Disconnect electrical connectors from combination switch assembly (turn signal/wiper controls). Note connector positions and routing for reinstallation. Press release tabs fully before pulling connectors to avoid damage.
6. 6

   Mark and document clock spring position
   Before removing clock spring, note the alignment marks on the clock spring housing and steering column. Take photos if needed. The clock spring must be reinstalled in the same rotational position. Mark the neutral/center position with tape if alignment marks are not clearly visible.
7. 7

   Remove old clock spring
   Disconnect the clock spring electrical connectors (typically two: one for airbag, one for steering wheel controls). Remove the clock spring mounting screws using appropriate Torx or Phillips driver. Carefully lift clock spring assembly off steering column shaft. Do not allow steering shaft to rotate.
   Torque spec

   Clock Spring Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Verify new clock spring centering
   New clock spring should arrive in centered/locked position with locking pin or tape. If not locked, center it by turning clockwise to stop, then counterclockwise approximately 2.5-3 turns until arrows or marks align. Do NOT force past stops. Verify wheels are still straight ahead.
9. 9

   Install new clock spring
   Route clock spring wiring properly through column opening. Align clock spring onto steering column shaft, ensuring alignment marks match position documented in step 6. Install and torque clock spring mounting screws evenly in cross pattern. Remove centering lock pin or tape if present. Connect electrical connectors ensuring they click fully into place.
   Torque spec

   Clock Spring Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reinstall combination switch connectors
    Reconnect all combination switch electrical connectors, verifying correct position and secure connection. Ensure wiring harnesses follow original routing and are not pinched or stressed.
11. 11

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Install upper steering column cover first, ensuring all clips align properly. Then install lower cover, engaging all clips and installing screws. Torque cover screws to specification. Verify no gaps between covers.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall steering wheel
    Route clock spring wiring through steering wheel center opening. Align steering wheel to marks made in step 2 and slide onto shaft splines. Install steering wheel nut and torque to specification. Verify steering wheel is centered with wheels pointing straight ahead.
    Torque spec

    Steering Wheel Nut54 Nm (40 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reinstall driver airbag module
    Connect horn connector and airbag connector to back of airbag module. Position airbag module onto steering wheel, aligning mounting holes. Install airbag module retaining bolts through access holes and torque to specification using T40 Torx driver.
    Torque spec

    Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect negative battery terminal. Torque terminal bolt to specification if applicable. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Verify airbag warning light performs bulb check (illuminates then goes out after 6-7 seconds). If light stays on, use scan tool to check for diagnostic codes.
    Torque spec

    Ground Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify steering wheel is properly centered with wheels straight ahead
3. Confirm no wiring is pinched between steering column covers
4. Double-check all fasteners are torqued to specification

Verification

• Start engine and verify airbag warning light goes out and stays out
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock slowly while parked to verify full range without binding
• Test all steering wheel controls (horn, cruise control, audio, phone) for proper operation
• Test turn signal and wiper controls for proper function
• If airbag light remains on, retrieve diagnostic trouble codes with scan tool
• Road test vehicle at low speed to verify steering operates normally without noises or binding

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