Steering Wheel Noise

[Jeff Bridges Genesis]

Hello,

I have had no issues till I adjusted the steering wheel using the adjustment knob for a second and put it back the way it was. Now, when I turn the steering wheel, there is a faint but audible scratching, grinding noise. I was wondering if anyone had any experience with this. Thank you.

2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 base model

 

[Mr. Incredible]

couple of threads on the forum about it, it is the steering wheel clock spring also called the contact assembly or spiral cable. it's a ribbon cable in a plastic housing that winds and unwinds as you turn the steering wheel, it contains all the connections for the steering controls.


I myself have a 2018 G80 sport that makes the grinding noise and when I go in for my 6K service I will be asking to have it replaced. Several others on the forum have indicated the same issue/noise on varying years.

The issue to me, is that I have had two vehicles over the past 18 years that have sprung the clock spring, i.e. the ribbon cable snaps internally. and once that happens nothing connected to the steering wheel or column will function, from wipers and signals, to the airbag and radio controls.

the grinding IMO is an indication that the wound ribbon cable for whatever reason has unwound past the point it was designed to function in and is now rubbing on something.

Denso, the manufacturer of the clock springs for GM and Chrysler (the two I had issues with), had issues with them snapping in cars from Chrysler and GM from 2005-2016, if Denso also makes the ones for Hyundai, then it's no surprise to me at this point.

 

[Jeff Bridges Genesis]

Thank you for your detailed response. I did somer research on the clock spring and that is no question a strong possibility like you stated. I also found another thread that stated the springs on the airbag assembly make noise and can cause issues. I attached a photo of the comment stated.

 

[Jeff Bridges Genesis]

I took apart the airbag and inspected the wire clip and the springs. I cleaned the area with canned air and put it back together. Noise is still there and I am more confident than ever that the clock spring is the culprit.