I've read a number of threads about steering wheel noise related to power steering, but my x308 has begun making a very different sort of noise as I turn the wheel. If anybody remembers the 70s TV show "The Waltons", it sounds kind of like the old screen door on the Walton's home. I figure it must be the clock spring mechanism. Anybody ever taken one apart and repaired it or lubricated it as opposed to just replacing it?

 

Nobody replied but turns out it wasn't the clock spring after all but the horn contact springs instead. The airbag unit is your horn button. It's supported on four small springs. After removing the airbag I discovered the noise was no longer there while turning the wheel. Apparently the springs get weak and corrode a little and the weight of the airbag shifts on the springs as the wheel is rotated making a noise like an old screen door. The dead simple fix was to lubricate the four horn contact springs and pins with dielectric grease. Now it's a luxury car again!

 

I have the same issue, any tips for this airbag novice ?!

 

Wow! I've slept a few nights since then and hardly remember any details. But as I recall, there's only like two screws and it falls off in your lap. I read the official repair manual but think one of those threads on the steering noise included a description how to disassemble the steering column including removing the airbag.

 

What are saying to lube, is it in the pic below ?!





Pic Credit : https://clockspring.shutterfly.com/pictures/8

 

Its been so long I'd have to go take it apart again to remember. But vaguely I recall there were four dainty little springs that floated loosely around some kind of centering pins. As the weight of the air bag shifted, they would rub on the seats and the pins and perhaps even coil on coil, sounding like an old screen door. They may be underneath those large, flat-headed screws. I just don't remember the details. The good news is the dielectric grease trick is still holding up after two years, whereever I put it

 

Sounds like I have a fun weekend ahead of me ! Tequila & air bag exploration.