2011 clockspring question

My horn stopped working. I took my 2011 Tundra in for inspection, and the mechanic discovered the horn wouldn’t activate by pressing on the steering wheel. Using a tablet via the OBD connection (I am assuming TechStream), he was able to activate the horn, so he suggested replacing the clockspring. After consulting Dr Youtube, it looks like something that I can do myself for less than going through a shop.

Though I do have a couple of questions. Should I stick with the OEM part from Toyota, or can I go with an aftermarket version. If aftermarket is okay, any suggestions on a manufacturer?

Also, does this part have any functional relation to the stereo controls on the steering wheel? (My controls work properly, but I don’t want to mess them up if the part is related to their functionality).

Any advice and/or input is appreciated.

 

I would absolutely buy an OEM clock spring. Yes, the buttons on the steering wheel (horn included) pass through the clock spring.

 

go oem.
I did it on my nissan pathfinder. Was a bit more involved than toyota and you have to disconnect airbag etc..not something you want to do again if the aftermarket part craps on you in one year. There is a tilting sensor in the clock spring that is matched to your truck, you usually port it over to the new clock spring.

in my case the stereo settings stopped working then eventually the horn.

 

also this is usually an expensive job from the dealership but you will save $$ if DIY. Not complicated just take your time and watch a lot of YT..lol

 

https://www.tundras.com/threads/diy-replace-clockspring-spiral-cable-remove-steering-wheel.26741/

 

Now THAT is how to document a process. Very nice! Thank you.


It seems the OEM part through a Toyota dealership is about $225. The mechanic that did my inspection told me to expect a bill for around $600-$800 (including the part) for a shop to install, which is why he encouraged me to look into DIY’ing it if I wanted to save quite a bit of money.

I greatly appreciate all of the replies and advice. Y’all are awesome! Thank you!

 

@csuviper

You can find the OEM part cheaper on Amazon or eBay, but to avoid dirt cheap Chinese fakes, order only from sellers that are listed as Toyota dealers. Any spiral cable under $100 should be suspect as not being OEM.

 

I paid $210.00 for mine at McGeorge, my dealer installed it and a new steering wheel that I bought from a forum member for another $150.00 or so.

 

The big question is whether the shop would be willing to roll the dice and use an aftermarket clock spring instead of an OE clock spring. That's a big advantage to doing the work yourself.