How to replace the horn switch
Auto repair

How to replace the horn switch

09.11.2022 /

Your car horn works through the horn button. A faulty button can be dangerous and should usually be replaced by a professional.

Car horn switches or buttons are usually mounted on the steering wheel. Some steering wheel buttons are mounted on the side of the steering wheel, but most of them are located right in the middle of the wheel.

Most horn switches are normally open, which means they only close when the button is pressed. Typically, when the horn switch is pressed, the horn relay is grounded, allowing power to flow through the relay to the horn assembly.

When the horn switch does not work properly, the horn may not sound and it may be dangerous. This is why faulty horn switches should be replaced as soon as possible.

  • A warning: In most modern vehicles, the horn switch is attached to the top of the airbag housing. If mishandled, the airbag can deploy with lethal force. For this reason, repairs to the horn switch on vehicles equipped with airbags should only be carried out by trained personnel. Do not attempt this yourself if this applies to your vehicle.

Part 1 of 2: Removing the old horn switch

To safely and effectively replace your horn switch, you'll need a few basic tools.

Necessary materials

  • New horn switch
  • crosshead screwdriver
  • Protective gloves
  • Repair manuals (optional) you can buy them through Chilton, or Autozone provides them online for free for certain makes and models.
  • Safety glasses
  • Small flat screwdriver

Step 1: Disconnect the battery. Disconnect the negative battery cable and set it aside.

Step 2: Remove the screws on the sides of the steering wheel.. They are usually behind plastic covers that need to be removed with a small flathead screwdriver.

Step 3: Disconnect the wires. Partially remove the horn button from the steering wheel and disconnect the wires.

Step 4: Remove the horn button. After disconnecting the wires, completely remove the horn button from the steering wheel.

Part 2 of 2: Installing the new horn switch

Step 1: Install the new horn switch. Loosely place the new horn switch on the steering wheel.

Step 2: Reconnect the wires. Connect all electrical connections to the horn switch and fully install the switch to the steering wheel.

Step 3: Replace screws. Using a suitable screwdriver, reinstall the screws on each side of the steering wheel.

Step 4 Connect the battery. Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten it.

You should now have a nice new horn switch installed. If you feel like you'd rather leave it to a professional, AvtoTachki certified mechanics offer a qualified horn switch replacement service.

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