Four problems related to air bag on-off switch have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Clockspring unit fails to provide power to airbag, horn and cruise control switches in steering wheel. This unit can fail in an accident and prevent airbag from being deployed. Dc has sold over 150,000 replacement clocksprings at over $250 a piece. This is an obvious manufactures defect. I was unable to blow my horn at another driver to get his attention. Luckily no accident occurred. However unit has to be replaced as I am with no horn, no cruise control controls, and an airbag malfunction light.
Airbag light intermittently comes on and off. Cruise control off switch doesn't disengage vehicle, only if brakes are applied cruise control shuts off. Steering wheel makes a squeaky noise, but doesn't seem to affect consumer's steering ability. Dealer advised consumer to bring vehicle in to be inspected.
The airbag warning light on the dash has been activated. The horn and speed control are also inoperable which occurred about the same time the airbag light went on. Also, the windshield wipers activate occasionally even though the switch is in the off position. The outside mirrors also move when the automatic door locks are activated. It is my understanding that the air bag, horn and speed control problems are currently being investigated by NHTSA. A faulty clockspring assembly is the possible culprit.
After starting vehicle, air bag light stayed on. Would go off and on by itself. Problem was consistent. Vehicle at dealership, informed by mechanic that air bag will not deploy if light was on. Ran a diagnostic check and nothing was found. The consumer wants an off switch for the air bag or have it removed because it is not working properly.