1995 Eagle Talon Steering Wheel Airbag: SRS Lights, Clock Springs, and Replacement Risks

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION IS REQUIRED

The steering wheel airbag is a pyrotechnic explosive device. Improper handling, installation, or disposal can result in accidental deployment, causing serious injury or death. Federal and state regulations may apply to the sale and installation of SRS components. Replacement of any SRS component, including the airbag and clock spring, MUST be performed by a qualified, certified technician. This guide is for informational purposes only.

Symptoms of a Failing Steering Wheel Airbag or SRS System

The signs of a problem within the SRS system are usually clear, but they don't always point directly to the airbag itself. The most common failure point on an aging vehicle like the 1995 Talon is often a related component called the clock spring.

1. SRS Warning Light is On

This is the most common and serious symptom. When you start your Talon, the 'SRS' or airbag symbol on the dashboard should light up for a few seconds for a system self-test and then turn off. If the light stays on, it means the SRS control module has detected a fault and has disabled the entire airbag system. This means the driver's airbag, passenger airbag, and seatbelt pre-tensioners will NOT deploy in a crash.

2. Horn, Cruise Control, or Steering Wheel Buttons Don't Work

If your horn and other steering wheel-mounted controls fail at the same time your SRS light comes on, the problem is almost certainly a bad clock spring, not the airbag module itself. The clock spring is a special coiled ribbon of wires that maintains the electrical connection for all these components as the steering wheel turns. When the wires inside break from age and use, it cuts the connection to the airbag and other functions.

3. Clicking or Grinding Noise When Turning the Wheel

An audible clicking, rubbing, or grinding sound coming from the steering column as you turn the wheel can be a sign of a physically broken clock spring inside. The sound is caused by the broken ribbon cable catching or rubbing inside its housing.

Diagnosing the SRS Fault

An illuminated SRS light means that a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored in the SRS control module. However, reading these codes is not straightforward.

• Specialized Scan Tool Required: Standard OBD-II code readers used for check engine lights cannot communicate with the SRS module on a 1995 Talon. A professional-level scan tool, such as the dealership's MUT-II tool, is required to read the specific SRS fault code.
• Common Causes: A technician with the right tool can determine if the fault is with the driver's airbag module, the clock spring, one of the front impact sensors, the passenger airbag, or the SRS control module itself. On these cars, a faulty clock spring is a very common culprit.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

As of mid-2024, there are no active recalls issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the steering wheel airbag on the 1995 Eagle Talon. While there was a massive series of recalls for Takata-brand airbags, they primarily affected different vehicles and model years. However, it is always wise to check for any new recalls using your vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website.

Forum discussions among owners confirm that the SRS system on 1995 models, the first year of the second generation, has some differences from the 1996-1999 models, particularly concerning the front impact sensors. This reinforces the importance of using year-specific parts.

Buying a Used 1995 Eagle Talon Steering Wheel Airbag

For a vehicle of this age, a new OEM airbag (Part No. MR171461) is no longer available from the manufacturer. A used, non-deployed OEM airbag is the only practical option. Aftermarket airbags for this specific model are not produced and should not be trusted.

Inspection Checklist for a Used Airbag:

• Verify Compatibility: Ensure the airbag is from a 1995 Eagle Talon or a 1995 Mitsubishi Eclipse. Airbags from 1996-1999 models will not work correctly with the 1995 SRS system.
• Check the Part Number: If possible, verify the OEM part number on the unit is MR171461.
• Inspect the Cover: The vinyl cover should be free of any cuts, tears, scuffs, or sun damage. A brittle or damaged cover is a red flag.
• Examine the Connector: The yellow electrical connector on the back must be intact, with no broken plastic or corroded pins. Do not buy an airbag with a damaged connector.
• Ask About the Donor Vehicle: Ask the seller if the airbag came from a flood-damaged vehicle. Moisture can ruin the internal components and render the airbag useless and dangerous. Reputable recyclers will not sell parts from flood cars.
• Look for Deployment Signs: Never buy an airbag that shows any signs of being tampered with or repacked.

Legal and Safety Considerations for Used Airbags

While Federal law does not prohibit the sale or installation of a used, non-deployed airbag, some states have specific regulations. For example, New York has laws that make it functionally illegal to sell a used airbag within the state. It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure compliance with all local and state laws. NHTSA strongly recommends that any replacement be properly completed by a professional to ensure the entire system, including sensors and electronics, is correct.

Replacement and System Reset

This is not a DIY job. The process involves disconnecting the battery, disabling the system, removing the airbag module (which is an explosive), removing the steering wheel, replacing the clock spring (highly recommended at the same time), and then reassembling everything.

The Clock Spring

The clock spring is the vital link between the steering column and the steering wheel. Because it is a common failure point that produces the exact same primary symptom (SRS light) as a bad airbag, it is highly recommended to replace the clock spring whenever the airbag is being serviced. It is a relatively inexpensive part compared to the labor involved in accessing it.

Post-Installation System Reset

Simply replacing the faulty part will not turn off the SRS light. The fault code must be cleared from the SRS control module's memory using a compatible professional scan tool. Disconnecting the battery will not reset the SRS light. After clearing the code, the system will run its self-test again, and if no other faults are present, the light will turn off and the system will be active.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)