Cruise control/horn don't work

[SilverSHO]

The horn and CC both used to work, but now neither does, and I have no idea why. When I push either horn button there is a click from some sort of solenoid or relay somewhere in the dash, and CC just doesn't work. I flipped through the owners' manual and my EVTM, but couldn't find any useful information. I haven't poked around under the hood yet, but I plan to this afternoon; what should I look for (mechanical and electrical)?

And yes, I searched, but came up with very little useful information.

 

[Mr Anonymous]

Click search, type 'clockspring'...

 

[betterman]

maybe its just a couple burnt fuses

 

[TVSHO]

betterman:
maybe its just a couple burnt fuses

No...lots of folks have had this problem...myself included. SHOooo is right. Do a search w/ clockspring and 8-9 posts with the same problem pop up.

Tom
'94 ATX

 

[projectSHO89]

When mine failed with the same symptom, it turned out to be a shorted horn relay and both horns were bad. About 10 bucks at U-Wrench-it to fix. Go figure...

Seriously, check the clockspring first. The horn and the CC buttons share lines in the wiring and a fault in either can affect the other.

Steve

 

[rangerj]

SilverSHO,

You can try a known good horn relay to determine if the relay is bad. The horns get corroded, given their position in life, and the "ground" is often lost due to corrosion.

That having been said, when two or more items that are controlled through the steering column it is frequently the "clockspring". The clockspring is behind the airbag.

Be sure to read, understand, and follow, (in the voice of Norm Abrams) all WARNINGS in the shop manual regarding testing, removing and/or replacing the clockspring. An accidental deployment of the airbag will ruin your whole day!

VERY SERIOUSLY, if you have any doubts about your mechanical skills have this done professionally. rangerj