1997 Nissan Other Air Bag System

NAGROM

MEMBER
1997 NISSAN
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
54,000 MILES

When making a turn there is something Clunking around in the steering wheel behind the air bag/horn pad. I can also hear&feel it. Sometimes it activates the horn with a couple of beeps. The air bag warning light is Not on in the dashboard. Is there a way I can get inside the system to repair this without damaging the Truck or myself. I cannot afford Dealer costs at this time. Any help will be Greatly appreciated Thanks G. Morgan (504) 494-0562

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,754 POSTS

Based on the combination of observations, the most likely suspect is the clock spring coming apart. That's a wound-up ribbon cable inside a plastic housing under the steering wheel. You can replace it yourself, but while there are protections built in, you should avoid generating static electricity when you unplug the air bag as that can set it off if the connector's shorting bar is defective. Leave the ignition switch off too the whole time to avoid setting any diagnostic fault codes.

It's critical to have the steering system centered during the procedure because the new clock spring comes locked in the centered position. It can't tolerate being turned further in either direction than about half a turn more than the steering system will allow. Installing the steering wheel will unlock the clock spring and allow it to rotate.