Jeep Wrangler JK: How to Replace Clockspring

Replacing the clockspring in your Jeep Wrangler JK can seem like an intimidating task, but it's actually a pretty straightforward task that anyone can complete themselves.

By Brett Foote - November 16, 2015
Contributors: Chili

This article applies to the Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-Present).

A faulty clockspring is relatively easy to spot, because they generally cause the airbag light and warning chime to intermittently come on. Clockspring failure is also a common problem with the JK model Wranglers, to the point where a recall was issued for 2007 models. For those who have a 2008 and up, you're basically on your own. Dealerships are known to charge upwards of $550 for clockspring replacement, but the part itself is readily available online for as little as $80. This means that you can save a ton of money by replacing the clockspring yourself, and it isn't a terribly complicated job. Keep reading and we'll walk you through the process.

Materials Needed

T20 driver
Flat head screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
13mm socket and ratchet
Dental pick (optional)
Torque wrench

Step 1 – Remove the steering column shroud

One of the first and most important steps is to disconnect the negative (black) battery cable and wait 15 minutes before proceeding. This allows the airbag system capacitor to discharge, which will prevent any "surprises" from happening once you start messing with the airbag components. Use a T20 driver to remove the screws from the bottom of the steering column shroud and pull the shroud off.

Figure 1. Remove screws from the bottom of the column shroud.
Figure 2. Remove the steering column shroud.

Step 2 – Remove the airbag module

To remove the airbag module, you must release three clips that hold it in place on the back of the module. The easiest way to do this is to turn the steering wheel so that the opening on the wheel is positioned above that particular clip. Use a flat head screwdriver or dental pick to release the three clips and pull the module out. Disconnect the two electrical connectors on the back of the module and remove it.

Figure 3. Release the three clips that hold the airbag module in place.
Figure 4. Disconnect electrical connectors on back of module.

Step 3 – Remove the clockspring

Remove the electrical connectors for the cruise control and the clockspring. Remove the 13mm steering wheel bolt and pull the steering wheel off. Remove the three T20 screws that hold the clockspring in place and disconnect the electrical connectors going into it. Remove the windshield wiper stalk and the turn signal stalk from the clockspring with a Phillips screwdriver. Discard the old clockspring.

Figure 5. Remove the electrical connector for the cruise control.
Figure 6. Remove the connector for the clockspring.
Figure 7. Remove the steering wheel bolt.
Figure 8. Remove the clockspring screws.
Figure 9. Remove the windshield wiper stalk.
Figure 10. Remove the turn signal stalk.

Step 4 – Install the new clockspring

Install the turn signal stalk and the windshield wiper stalk on the new clockspring. Set the new clockspring in place and reinstall the three screws. Reinstall the steering wheel and pull the yellow protector on the new clockspring out. Reinstall the two electrical connectors and the steering wheel bolt, which should be torqued to 40 lb/ft if you have a torque wrench. Reconnect the airbag electrical connectors and push the airbag module back in place until you hear the clips snap together. Reconnect the negative battery cable.