Airbag System: CLOCKSPRING: Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan, 2003 Dodge Caravan, 2003 Chrysler Voyager, and 2003 Chrysler Town & Country. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The clockspring is mounted on the steering column behind the steering wheel. This assembly consist of a plastic housing which contains a flat, ribbon-like, electrically conductive tape that winds and unwinds with the steering wheel rotation. The clockspring is used to maintain a continuous electrical circuit between the instrument panel wiring and the driver airbag, the horn, and the vehicle speed control switches if equipped. The clockspring must be properly centered when it is reinstalled on the steering column following any service procedure, or it could be damaged. The clockspring cannot be repaired and it must be replaced.
CAUTION:
Deployed Front Air Bags may or may not have live pyrotechnic material within the air bag inflator. Do not dispose of 2003 Model Year Driver and Passenger Airbags unless you are sure of complete deployment. Please refer to the Hazardous Substance Control System for Proper Disposal. Dispose of deployed air bags in a manner consistent with state, provincial, local, and federal regulations. Use the following table to identify the status of the Airbag Squib.