How to Replace a Clockspring in a Geo Tracker

The clockspring in your Geo Tracker, also referred to as the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil, provides a steady electrical connection to the airbag, horn and any steering wheel speed controls, even while the steering wheel turns. When the airbag light stays on steadily or you notice a malfunction in the horn or speed controls, replacement of the clockspring may solve the problem.

Instructions

1

Disconnect the negative battery cable from your Geo Tracker and ensure that it stays out of contact with the battery terminal throughout the replacement of the clockspring. Allow the capacitor to discharge for at least two minutes before beginning the repair.

2

Disengage the fuse marked AIR BAG from the fuse box of your Geo Tracker. Disconnect the driver's side airbag connection located at the base of the steering wheel. Lift off the yellow locking mechanism over the connection and pull apart the two pieces at the connection.

3

Remove the glove box from your Geo Tracker to expose the connection to the passenger side airbag. Lift off the locking mechanism at the connection for this airbag and gently pull the two sides of the connection apart.

4

Align the tires of your Geo Tracker so they point straight ahead. Remove the screws at the back of the steering wheel in order to remove the airbag module from the face of the steering wheel. Separate the airbag from the steering wheel and set it aside for later installation.

5

Take out the nut that holds the steering wheel onto the steering shaft of your Geo Tracker. Mark the steering wheel and the shaft to ensure proper replacement of the steering wheel upon completion of the clockspring replacement.

6

Pull the steering wheel off of the steering shaft with a steering wheel puller tool. Locate the clockspring and disconnect any wires connecting it to the steering column. Replace the clockspring with a new mechanism and center the clockspring in its position. Reconnect all the wires leading to the clockspring to ensure proper airbag deployment, horn use and use of steering wheel speed controls.

7

Fit the two tabs on the clockspring into the spaces at the back of the steering wheel and tighten the steering wheel to 23 1/2 foot pounds. Reattach the airbag module and reconnect the airbag connections for both sides of your Geo Tracker. Reconnect the negative battery cable.