Horn Switch: Testing and Inspection

WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS, REFER TO AIR BAGS AND SEAT BELTS/AIR BAGS BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

For additional testing and inspection information please refer to Powertrain Management/Computers and Control Systems/ Body Control Module

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable. Remove the steering column opening cover and knee blocker from the instrument panel.
2. Check for continuity between the metal steering column jacket and a good ground. There should be continuity.
3. Remove the driver side airbag module from the steering wheel. Refer to Air Bags and Seat Belts/Air Bags/Airbag Module Replacement for the procedures. Unplug the horn switch wire harness connectors from the airbag module.
4. Unplug the horn relay from the Power Distribution Center (PDC). Check for continuity between the steering column half of the horn switch feed wire harness connector and a good ground. There should be no continuity If OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the short circuit as required.
5. Check for continuity between the steering column half of the horn switch feed wire harness connector and the horn relay control circuit cavity for the horn relay in the PDC. There should be continuity. If OK, go to Step 6. If not OK, repair the open circuit as required.
6. Check for continuity between the horn switch feed wire and the horn switch ground wire on the airbag module. There should be no continuity. If OK, go to Step 7. If not OK, replace the faulty horn switch.
7. Depress the center of the airbag module trim cover and check for continuity between the horn switch feed wire and the horn switch ground wire on the airbag module. There should now be continuity. If not OK, replace the faulty horn switch.