Steering Column Repair: Steering Wheel/Turn Signal Issue - 06 Dodge Caravan

Question
Driving my 2006 Dodge Caravan (tilt column) this evening, I had the turn signal on to turn left. When I went to turn, I heard a noise like breaking plastic, and then the steering wheel was very difficult to turn. I managed the turn, and subsequently turned several times in both directions with no further drag on the steering wheel, but now the turn signal won't turn off (either direction) when I complete the turn. Shortly after the initial problem, while turning, I also heard sounds from the steering column that sounded like plastic being crunched. Any ideas on possible problems or costs of repair?

Answer

clockspring   Hello Emily:

Sorry about your van.  It sounds very familiar.  This is a big problem for that design.  My guess is that the airbag light either came on during this episode or has been on for a while.  If so, the part that is breaking is called the clockspring.  It is the wire harness for the airbag and it has been subject to a recall for many years.  I suggest you contact the dealer to see if your vehicle qualifies (even being as old as it is).  If it does not, it's about a $100 part and most shops (especially collision shops) will know how to install it.  The labor time to replace it is about 1 hr, so don;t let anyone tell you it's a major job.  Depending on where you live, the labor cost should be @ $65-$100
As it is now, if the light is on, your airbag will NOT deploy in the event of an accident.
Without alarming you, it is possible however for it do deploy accidentally if the right wires got twisted up together inside the column.

I hope this all helps
Good luck
Doug