Thread: Intermittent horn / CC buttons - rotary coupler ("clock spring")?

I had a similar problem with my volume buttons doing the opposite than requested. It’s to do with the connectors from the wheel to the clock spring getting a little tarnished over time and the various resistances that correspond to the buttons being out of spec. In my case simply using a electronic contact cleaner and lubricant resolved it. It might be the same for you.

Removing the airbag requires either buying the removal tool or making one. I fashioned my own from some stiff wire with the right end on it.

Originally Posted by DiscoJeffster

Removing the airbag requires either buying the removal tool or making one. I fashioned my own from some stiff wire with the right end on it.

I adapted my tool from a cheap door card / sound system tools. They often come with hooks and levers that will do the trick.

I don’t know if the D4 and D3 clock spring / looms are different or not but I have a spare used D3 spring and 2 x looms if you want to try them

Cheers all for the advice. I'll see how it progresses from here. So far today it's been okay.

Originally Posted by Redtail

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And perhaps unrelated, but I do get a slight whine - not quite a squeal - from the steering wheel on low speed 90 degree turns, like it needs a lube or something.

Is it an easy and cheap fix, or a complete PITA to sort it out?

Yes, what is that noise, I get it too? I also thought it would disappear when the clock spring was changed, due to bringing up an airbag fault IIRC, but it didn't.

Originally Posted by Redtail

And perhaps unrelated, but I do get a slight whine - not quite a squeal - from the steering wheel on low speed 90 degree turns, like it needs a lube or something.

When you say 90 degrees, are you trying to turn the car 90 degrees or have you rotated the wheel 90 degrees?

To clarify, are you at the end of the rack (maximum lock)?

Originally Posted by BradC

When you say 90 degrees, are you trying to turn the car 90 degrees or have you rotated the wheel 90 degrees?

To clarify, are you at the end of the rack (maximum lock)?

On slow, regular left or right hand turns. Nowhere near full lock.

Originally Posted by Redtail

The horn doesn't always work on my D4 (2011 HSE). And I think the cruise control buttons sometimes do same...…...

I also thought I'd noticed the CC buttons not working once or twice, I've since discovered they don't work in Sand Mode or pro'ly any off road programme for good reason. However earlier tonight I had to use the buttons in a panicky fashion after a clown in front of me slowed down after some roadworks, and then they wouldn't work again, even after playing with them for a few k's, but after re-starting the car they work fine, so I think I just confused the computer.

Connector will be slightly unseated in the steering wheel.