Restraints

Driver Airbag Module (DAB) and Clock Spring Repair Procedures

22steps
~132min
4/5difficulty
Done 0 of 22

Removal

  1. Before removing the steering wheel, set the front wheels in the straight-ahead position.
    If the steering wheel and front tires are not aligned straight ahead together, the number of turns of the steering wheel and the cable inside the clock spring may be damaged.
  2. Disconnect the battery negative cable.
  3. Remove the driver airbag module from the steering wheel by pressing the latch stopper.
  4. Remove the wire clip (C) and disconnect the horn connector (A).
  5. Release the connector lock, then disconnect the driver's airbag module connector (B).
    Store the removed airbag module in a clean, dry place with the pad cover facing up.
  6. Remove the steering wheel and steering column shroud. (Refer to Steering System - Steering Column and Shaft group)
  7. Disconnect the clock spring and horn connector, then remove the clock spring.

Inspection

Driver Airbag (DAB)

If any unsuitable parts are found during the following inspection, replace the airbag module with a new one.
Never attempt to measure the resistance of the airbag module circuit (squib), even if you use the specified tester. If the circuit resistance is measured with a tester, accidental airbag deployment will result in serious injury.
  1. Inspect the pad cover for dents, cracks, or deformation.
  2. Inspect the airbag module for dents, cracks, or deformation.
  3. Inspect the hooks and connectors for damage, terminals for deformation, and the harness for pinching.
  4. Inspect the airbag inflator housing for dents, cracks, or deformation.
  5. Install the airbag module on the steering wheel to check its fit or alignment with the wheel.
  6. If at least one abnormal point is found during the following inspections, replace the clock spring with a new one.
  7. Inspect the connectors and protective tube for damage, and terminals for deformation.
Clock Spring

Installation

  1. Before installing the steering wheel, set the front wheels in the straight-ahead position.
    If the steering wheel and front tires are not aligned straight ahead together, the number of turns of the steering wheel and the cable inside the clock spring may be damaged.
  2. Disconnect the battery negative cable.
  3. Center the clock spring before installing it on the steering wheel.
    1. Turn the clock spring clockwise or counterclockwise until it automatically locks in the center with an audible click.
    2. Check the orange indicator on the clock spring.
  4. Connect the clock spring harness connector and the horn harness connector to the clock spring.
  5. Install the steering column shroud and steering wheel. (Refer to Steering System group - Steering Column and Shaft)
  6. Connect the driver airbag module (DAB) connector, then install the driver airbag module (DAB) on the steering wheel.
  7. Connect the negative battery cable.
  8. After installing the airbag, check that the system operates correctly.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Optima Hybrid Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.