ABS, airbag and electrical
Airbag clockspring replacement: what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $70 | $300 |
| Labor: 1.5 to 2.2 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $165 | $330 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $40 |
| Total, rounded | $230 | $670 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
The clockspring is a coiled ribbon in the steering column that keeps the airbag, horn and controls connected as the wheel turns. A bad one turns on the airbag light.
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What is usually included
- New clockspring
- Steering wheel and airbag removal
- Reset and align
- Clear airbag codes
- Test steering controls
What moves the price
- OEM versus aftermarket clockspring
- Steering wheel controls
- Scan-tool reset
- Steering wheel design and how hard the airbag is to remove
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is the code confirmed to be the clockspring?
- Who handles the airbag safely?
- Is a reset included?
- Is there a warranty on the clockspring and the airbag light reset?
Can you do it yourself?
Not recommended as a DIY because of airbag safety risks.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
What are signs of a bad clockspring?
The airbag light turns on, the horn or steering wheel buttons stop working, or cruise control controls fail. A clicking in the wheel can also be a sign.
Is the airbag safe to drive with when the light is on?
Treat it as not safe. With the light on, the airbag may not deploy in a crash. Get it checked soon.
Why is it done by a shop?
The airbag must be disconnected safely, and the wheel must be centered when the part is installed. A mistake can damage the part or set off the airbag.
How much does airbag clockspring replacement cost?
A typical range across the US is $230 to $670. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $250 to $730 |
| New York City area | $250 to $710 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $250 to $720 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $240 to $690 |
| Houston area, Texas | $220 to $660 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $220 to $660 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $230 to $670 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $240 to $690 |
| Miami area, Florida | $220 to $670 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $250 to $720 |