Electrical - Horn Sounds When Turning

11-009

April 6, 2011

Applies To:
2009 MDX - From VIN 2HNYD2...9H500001 thru 2HNYD2...9H525188

Horn Sounds While Driving or Turning the Steering Wheel

SYMPTOM

The horn intermittently sounds when driving or while turning the steering wheel.

PROBABLE CAUSE

There is metal contamination, often a sliver of metal, inside the spring bolt horn plate that intermittently conducts electricity and sounds the horn.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Remove the metal contamination and, if needed, replace the driver's airbag.

PARTS INFORMATION

Driver's Airbag:

P/N 77810-STX-A8OZB (gray)
P/N 77810-STX-A8OZC (beige)
P/N 77810-STX-A8OZA (black)

Airbag Bolt: P/N 90134-S6A-A80

(If you reuse the original airbag, each vehicle requires two bolts. If you replace the airbag, the new airbag comes with new bolts.)

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION





The normal warranty applies.

Failed Part: P/N 77810-SNA-A82ZA

Defect Code: 03214

Symptom Code: 06401

Skill Level: Repair Technician

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Disconnect the battery, then wait at least 3 minutes before starting work.





2. Remove the steering wheel access panel.

3. Remove the driver's airbag:





^ Disconnect the cable reel 4P connector from the driver's airbag 4P connector.

^ Disconnect the horn switch 1P connector, then remove the driver's airbag.





^ Remove the two TORX bolts using a TORX T30 bit.





4. Inspect the driver's airbag for any signs of metal contamination; pay close attention to the horn plate. Carefully remove any metal contamination.





5. Blow air on the bottom of the airbag and on the steering wheel where the airbag mounts to remove any potentially unseen contaminants.

6. Reinstall the airbag:





^ Place the driver's airbag in the steering wheel, and secure it with the original TORX bolts.





^ Connect the horn switch 1P connector to the driver's airbag. Make sure the connector is properly seated in its holder.

^ Connect the cable reel 4P connector to the driver's airbag 4P connector, then reinstall the access panel on the steering wheel. Make sure the connector is properly seated in its holders.

^ Reconnect the battery.

^ Clear any DTCs.

7. Retest the horn.

Does the horn sound intermittently when you turn the steering wheel?

Yes - Replace the driver's airbag.

No - The vehicle is OK. Remove the original TORX bolts, and replace them with new ones.





Disclaimer