I have a car that has thrown an SRS light. Neither the horn or the Cruise Control works so I am 99% sure it is the clock spring/cable reel without even scanning it. My question is, do I need to purchase one through the dealer and if not how can I ensure that an e-bay or 3rd party version is still in good working order. Is there anyway to fix the current one that is in there by winding it back and possibly setting it to center again? I am not very familiar with SRS and Airbag's as I usually stick to EF's. Any input on clock springs/ cable reels, whatever you choose to call it is appreciated.

Dealer wants 200$
Ebay wants $40-$80
I just want it fixed!

 

Eh, I'd eBay it and grab a used OEM one.

 

How do I know the used ebay one is any better than what I have here?!?

 

How would you know an aftermarket one won't break in 5 days after installation?

You could try an aftermarket one but then you don't know the quality control on it.

 

I wasnt talking aftermarket in the sense of a lesser-quality auto-zone part.. I see they have "used" reels on ebay for half the price of the dealer, still a Honda unit, just used. If I am to purchase one of those how do I even know its in normal working order?

meaning.. my reel looks fine, but the code comes up.. I am basically wondering if I can service the cable reel and just roll it back to center if it was over-spun. or if once it was spun too far, thats it. and how can I ensure buying one used that it has not been overspun as well.

Thank you!

 

Ahhh gotca, I see what you mean. Yeah probably going to be a crap shoot. I've never seen/heard of someone recoiling one. You could try doing it - not like it is going to get any worse?

 

Good point.. Not much info on them anywhere. Do you know if it is a common thing on Accords? or would only an airbag going off or spinning the wheel without the rack in wreck it?

 

I'll be honest, I've removed my reel without any issues when I installed the NRG QR and Nardi wheel. While it was plastic casing and stuff - there really was not much to it. Have you actually taken out the steering wheel yet? It is literally just that little plastic disc with two cables coming out if I recall.

The Helms guide has a good how to as does the Honda OEM one - that you can find in the internets - I followed and didn't have issues.

Spinning the wheel without PS I guess could cause issue - but did it with my Accord (no ps) with 170k miles without damaging it. The airbag deploying it may screw it up - haven't had personal experience with that though

 

Hate to chime in but just add a thought. Usually if there is a design issue with something like that you will find it in the aftermarket pretty easy-try looking/searching on Dorman Products website...I didn't look so take the rest of this for what it is. If they have it then I would guess there is some sort of flaw in the OE design, which would be rare for our Honda designers. If some place like that has it then I would worry about used ones...if not then I'd go for e-bay used or a bone yard...again my 2 cents. Sorry for butting in.

 

Thank you both!

 

I checked later, Dorman 525-600-used an LX 4cyl on Dorman's web catalog-Airbag Clockspring. Then serached a few parts stores ~ $100. Still up to you.