Section 1 (Body Control Modules): Operation: CLOCKSPRING
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Dodge Ram Wagon, 2002 Dodge Ram Van, 2001 Dodge Ram Wagon, and 2001 Dodge Ram Van. 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 consists 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 wire harness and the driver side air bag module, the horn switch, and the vehicle control switches on vehicles that are so equipped. The clockspring must be properly centered when it is installed on the steering column following any service removal, or it will be damaged. The clockspring cannot be repaired, it must be replaced.