The Car Care Clinic with the Dr John

97 Chevrolet Malibu - Clock spring is broken

Earl in Acton

Question

Doc, I own a ‘97 Chevrolet Malibu, I just found out that the clock spring is broken. I would like to know if there is any danger of the air bag going off on its own? And also is it possible to deactivate both air bags? How can it be done?

Answer

Joel, I will not be the one to tell someone how to bypass a safety device. Though there are concerns regarding air bags, from what I’ve seen at accidents they are an effective safety device. Like any safety device it does have to be used correctly. I have not heard of a failed clock spring causing an air bag to deploy. But the potential does exist if the wrong wires make contact. Clock spring is a name used to describe the winding of wires from the steering column to the steering wheel. These group of wires wind-up and unwind, much like a clock spring as the steering wheel is turned. Thus the name clock spring. My suggestion is to install a new clock spring. In the event of an accident I would want every bit of technology performing correctly. Being able to walk away is a good thing.

Good Luck!
Dr. John