Switch, Horn: Operation

The horn switch allows the vehicle operator to actuate the horns by pressing anywhere on the upper surface of the Driver AirBag (DAB) trim cover in the center of the steering wheel. The four sets of horn switch contacts are wired in parallel so they perform as a single switch. One wire for each pair of contacts is connected to a path to ground at all times connected through the clockspring.

When the DAB trim cover is pressed, the DAB housing compresses the coil springs isolating the floating horn switch contacts causing at least one of the four sets of electrically conductive horn switch contacts to close the horn switch circuits. When the DAB trim cover is released, the coil springs between the contacts and the mounting plate return the DAB to its at rest position and open the horn switch circuit. The closed horn switch circuit provides a ground signal to the control coil of the horn relay located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC). The horn relay in the PDC then controls the output to the horn accordingly.

The hardwired circuits between components related to the horn switch may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring information includes wiring diagrams, details of wire harness routing and retention, connector pin-out information and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds. For proper wire repair, and connector repair procedures. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE , or REMOVAL , or INSTALLATION .