replaced clock spring now air bag light won't turn off?

274 MILES • 5.3L • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
DJMALDONADO
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have replaced the crash sensor on the front of the truck and the clock spring but the air bag light still remains on.
Oct 20, 2026 at 6:40 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 34,407 POSTS
First, there's going to be a diagnostic fault code set in the Air Bag Computer. The starting point is to have that code read and recorded. The people at most auto parts stores will read them for you for free, but not all may be able to access more than just the Engine Computer. Once you know the code number, I can look up the definition for you.

A common problem competent do-it-yourselfers run into with clock springs is they come locked in the centered orientation, then the wheels have to be straight ahead when the new part is installed. The internal ribbon able is just long enough for it to be able to wind up and unwind just a little more than the steering wheel can be rotated lock to lock, and no more. If the steering system isn't centered when the clock spring is installed, it will either be too short in one direction and tear off on one end, or it will unwind too far in the other direction, fold over on itself repeatedly, until it breaks. In the first condition, the failure occurs the instant the steering wheel is turned fully one way. In the second condition, the failure can take days or weeks to show up.

Another possibility is there's not actually a defect now, but you didn't erase the previous fault code(s). Codes in most Engine Computers get erased by disconnecting the battery, or they self-erase if the problem doesn't occur again after, typically, 50 to 100 engine starts. Not so with a lot of Air Bag Computers. On many models those codes stay in memory, even when the battery is disconnected, until they are manually erased with a scanner. That memory is designed that way to allow data to be retrieved during a crash investigation.

Let me know when you find that fault code number.
Oct 20, 2026 at 5:29 PM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle