Horn Switch: Testing and Inspection

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, SIDE AIRBAG, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIR BAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.





The horn switch is comprised of two separate contact plates suspended by pre-loaded springs. It may be tested in the following manner:

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

2. Remove the driver airbag.

3. Disconnect the horn switch harness connectors (1) and (2).

4. Using an ohmmeter, connect one lead to the ground wire terminal (1) and the other lead to the positive wire terminal (2). No continuity should be present.

5. Depress the horn switch outer plate and check for continuity. If no continuity is present between the terminals, replace the switch contact plates.

NOTE: For complete horn system diagnostics, see Horn Electrical Diagnostics.