Chrysler Repair: Dodge Neon cruise control/horn/air bag fail, dodge neon, steering wheel cover

Question
Hi Roland, I have a 2000 Dodge Neon ES.  A couple of days ago I heard a small click, and shortly thereafter I noticed that my airbag light had come on, my cruise control stopped working, as did my horn too.  Is there a common fuse or connection or something that might need to be reconnected or replaced and where would I locate it.  It's funny that these problems are only related by their location, the steering wheel.  By the way, I would have pulled off the steering wheel cover, but I was afraid the airbag might jump out at me.

Answer
Hi Katriana,
Your hunch is correct. There is a flexible electrical coupling between the steering column and the steering wheel called the 'clockspring' which provides the connections for all those devices positioned on the steering wheel. Because the airbag is a safety essential it may well be the case that this item will be replaced for free under either an original warranty or a federally required recall. Ask at the dealership and/or check with www.NHTSA.gov or the Chrysler corporate headquarters. If not, and you want to replace it yourself, let me know and I can give you the info.
Roland