Clockspring

It provides the electrical connection between the steering column and the steering wheel.

It consists of a ribbon with conductive tracks (airbag) whose length allows 2.5 turns of the steering wheel (steering lock plus safety) in each direction.

REMOVAL - REFITTING

WARNING: Do not handle pyrotechnic systems (airbags and pretensioners) near a heat source or flame; there is a risk of deployment.

IMPORTANT: Whenever the steering wheel is removed, the airbag connector (D) must be disconnected. The airbag is fitted with a connector that short-circuits when disconnected, to prevent accidental deployment.

Disconnect the battery.

Remove:

• the driver airbag by its two T30 Torx screws (tightening torque: 0.5 daN.m) located behind the steering wheel, and disconnect its connector (D),

• the horn connector, if fitted,

• the steering wheel bolt,

• the steering wheel after setting the wheels straight,

• the half-covers (3 screws).

Disconnect the rotary switch connector and remove it after removing its three fixing screws (E).

When removing it, it is essential to mark its position, either:

• by making sure the wheels are straight during dismantling in order to position the tape length at the centre,

• by locking the clockspring rotor in place with adhesive tape.

When replacing, the new part is supplied centred, held by a tear-off adhesive label that is removed at the first turn of the steering wheel (to be fitted with wheels straight).

Refitting - Specific points

Make sure the wheels are always straight.

Check that the clockspring is still immobilised before refitting.

If this is not the case, follow the centring method described in chapter 88 "Driver airbag".

Replace the steering wheel bolt after each removal (pre-coated bolt).

Observe the tightening torque: 4.5 daN.m.

IMPORTANT: Before reconnecting the driver airbag, the system operation check procedure must be carried out:

• Check that the airbag warning light on the instrument panel comes on with the ignition on.

• Connect an inert igniter to the driver airbag connector and check that the warning light goes off.

• Switch off the ignition, connect the airbag in place of the inert igniter and fit the airbag to the steering wheel.

• Switch on the ignition, check that the warning light comes on for three seconds when the ignition is switched on, then goes off and stays off.

If the warning light does not operate as described above, consult the diagnosis chapter and check the system using the XRBAG tool (Elé. 1288).

WARNING: Failure to observe these instructions could result in the systems not operating normally, or even accidental deployment.