Saab 9-3 airbag light

[MrGTI6]

I recently bought a 2005 Saab 9-3 Aero convertible. It's a great car but the airbag light is on.

Also, someone has installed a switch on the dash to operate the horn as it doesn't work through the steering wheel. I feel like this could be related to the airbag light.

I was wondering if anyone has any ideas before I start buying bits I don't need!

Thanks in advance!

[CardinalFang]

The steering wheel controls on my 9-3 aero saloon have gradually given up over the years. Computer, volume, calls etc. my local Saab specialist suggested I look for a new wheel on eBay but I’ve let it slide. Recently the airbag warning error started. I’ve noticed it comes on with the ignition & and then goes away until I make a significant turn. I reckon it’s the electrics in the wheel & plan to start with a new wheel. Not sure if that is a massive help, but that’s where I’m going to start, as I understand the airbag error is an MOT fail.
Chs, CF

[MrGTI6]

Thought I would update the thread. I replaced the clock spring this morning and it seems to have fixed the problem. The airbag light has gone out, the horn works, and the buttons on the steering wheel all work.

However, a couple of minutes after driving it, I was greeted with the message "STABILITY CONTROL FAILURE". Also, when I select reverse, it says "PARKING ASSIST MALFUNCTION". Could the two things be related?

I disconnected the battery before replacing the clock spring. I'm wondering if that might have something to do with the new warning messages.

[paulmakin]

Likely steering angle sensor will need recalibrating.

The later clock springs are different from the older generations and it is possible to reassamble the unit with the cogs misaligned which could also cause this. Wheels shoud be dead straight when removing/replacing - common to old and newer versions