Turn signal problems; question is about air bag.

[DrPizza]

2001 Dodge Grand Caravan

Left hand turn signal - when heading straight again, it wasn't clicking back off. No big deal, I thought, and I quickly got into the habit of turning it off half way around the turn.

Fast forward to tonight... I had it one while turning left. But, when I went to straighten the wheel out, something kept it from turning. Kinda freaked me out for a very very brief moment, but with a minimal amount of force, I could feel something give suddenly. The best comparison I could make is imagine expecting something to turn freely, but then you're stopped by the amount of resistance that could be given by a wooden match stick; a little force and it snaps in half.

This problem repeated itself at random when turning left.


My biggest question: Is there a chance of setting the airbag off if I screw around with it to see if I can figure out what's wrong? Lesser concern: will it be really simple to repair, need adjustment/replacement part?

 

[Pacfanweb]

You likely can't set the airbag off. If you want to be sure, unplug the battery for awhile before you work on it. They'll retain some power briefly, but you can step on the brake to bleed that off before you start working.

Other than having to possibly remove the steering wheel, at least turn signal part of this repair should be easy to fix. Sounds like you need a turn signal switch...question is, does it simply require removal of the steering column cover, or do you have to pull the steering wheel.

 

[DrPizza]

Thanks. Bro-in-law laughed about it and said I'd probably set of the airbag. I knew enough to disconnect the power for a while, thanks. I was thinking ahead in terms of "and when I reconnect the battery, what happens then? Pooooof?" If I can just take off the cover and repair it, I'll do that. If not, then my wife will have to live with it.


Thanks again!

 

[ValValline]

Most likely the problem is the turn signal cam. There is a tab on the base of your steering wheel that will push the turn signal lever back to center as the wheel completes the turn. My guess is a piece of plastic associated with this broke off and interferes with the wheel when it "sticks".

You can work on it yourself, but like already mentioned be sure to disconnect the battery for a few minutes first. You may also need a steering wheel puller once you get the air bag off and have access to the retaining nut.