--- title: How to test the Clockspring for continuity. description: Testing a clockspring (also known as a spiral cable or coil spring) for continuity ensures that the electrical connections to steering wheel-mounted components (e.g., airbag, horn, or steering wheel c --- [Skip to content](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/how-to-test-the-clockspring-for-continuity#main-content) English Show submenu for translations ![MAB Logo white.png\]](https://info.myairbags.com/hs-fs/hubfs/MAB%20Logo%20white.png?height=40&name=MAB%20Logo%20white.png) Open main navigation Close main navigation - English Show submenu for translations - KB Home KB Home Internal MAB Tech Support - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [MAB TS](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts?hsLang=en) 2. [Other Parts](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en) 3. [Clockspring](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#clockspring) # How to test the Clockspring for continuity. Testing a clockspring (also known as a spiral cable or coil spring) for continuity ensures that the electrical connections to steering wheel-mounted components (e.g., airbag, horn, or steering wheel controls) are intact. **We have a video demonstrating how to test resistance. In the video, a belt is used for the demonstration, but the same testing method can be applied to seat belts, anchors, buckles, collapsible steering columns, roll-over bars, and positive battery terminals or cables.** Please click [**here**](https://youtu.be/2BxfEtHGyLk) for the video.   Here's a step-by-step guide: ### **Safety Precautions** 1. **Disconnect the Battery:** - Turn off the ignition and disconnect the negative battery cable. - Wait at least 10–15 minutes to ensure the airbag system is de-energized. 2. **Remove the Airbag Module:** - Follow manufacturer-specific instructions to remove the airbag safely. This often involves unbolting or unclipping it from the steering wheel. --- ### **Tools Needed** - Multimeter (with continuity testing function) - Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, etc.) --- ### **Steps to Test the Clockspring** 1. **Access the Clockspring:** - Remove the steering wheel to access the clockspring. Be careful not to damage the steering column or connectors. 2. **Set Up the Multimeter:** - Turn the multimeter to the continuity (or ohms) setting. - Test the multimeter by touching its probes together to confirm it emits a tone or displays near-zero resistance. 3. **Identify the Clockspring Pins:** - Locate the clockspring's electrical connector(s). - Refer to the vehicle's service manual for the pinout diagram to identify the appropriate pins for the circuits you’re testing (e.g., airbag, horn, or control switches). 4. **Test Continuity for Each Circuit:** - Place one probe of the multimeter on a pin at the clockspring's connector. - Place the other probe on the corresponding pin at the other side of the clockspring. - Check for continuity: - **Good Clockspring:** A tone from the multimeter (or near-zero resistance) indicates a continuous circuit. - **Faulty Clockspring:** No tone (or infinite resistance) indicates an open circuit or broken wire. 5. **Test Through the Full Range of Motion:** - Slowly turn the clockspring to simulate steering wheel movement. - Observe the multimeter reading for any interruption in continuity, which would indicate an internal fault. --- ### **Results Interpretation** - **Normal:** Continuous tone or stable resistance reading across all tested pins throughout the turning range. - **Faulty:** Intermittent or no continuity in one or more circuits, even at a specific steering angle. --- ### **Additional Notes** - **Reinstallation:** If the clockspring is functional, ensure it is reinstalled in its centered position to avoid damage when the steering wheel is turned. - **Replacement:** If a fault is found, the clockspring must be replaced. It cannot be repaired due to its delicate internal construction. - **Professional Calibration:** Some vehicles require clockspring recalibration after replacement or removal. --- Testing the clockspring for continuity ensures safety-critical systems, such as the airbag and horn, are functioning correctly. Always refer to the vehicle-specific service manual for detailed procedures and precautions. - [Airbag Module](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/airbag-module?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Codes](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/airbag-module?hsLang=en#codes) - [Seat Belt](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/seat-belt?hsLang=en) - [Other Parts](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Steering Column Sensor](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#steering-column-sensor) - [Plugs](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#plugs) - [Rollover Bars](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#rollover-bars) - [Occupant Weight Sensor (OPDS)](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#occupant-weight-sensor-opds) - [Airbags](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#airbags) - [Impact Sensors](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#impact-sensors) - [Clockspring](https://info.myairbags.com/migration/internal-mab-ts/other-parts?hsLang=en#clockspring) [![MyAirbags Round Logo](https://info.myairbags.com/hs-fs/hubfs/logo%20(3).png?width=221&height=58&name=logo%20(3).png "MyAirbags Round Logo")](http://upfix.com) upfix.com Help Center Copyright © 2026, MyAirbags