Section 1019 (Horn System): Inspection

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lexus IS 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. INSPECT HORN SWITCH 
    1. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal from the battery.
    2. Remove the left and right covers from the steering wheel.
    3. Using a torx socket wrench, loosen the 2 bolts.
    4. Pull up the horn pad and place it on the steering column, as shown in Fig 1 .
      Fig 1: Pulling Horn Pad & Placing On Steering Column
      G03494514Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

      HINT:

      Do not disconnect the connector from the horn pad.

    5. Disconnect the connector from the slip ring.
    6. Check that no continuity exists between terminal 6 of the connector and body ground.
    7. Check that continuity exists between terminal 6 of the connector and body ground when the horn contact plate is pressed against the steering spoke assembly.

      If continuity is not as specified, repair or replace the steering wheel or wire harness as necessary.

      Fig 2: Checking Continuity Exists Between Terminal 6 & Body Ground
      G03494515Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    8. Install the horn pad in place and using a torx socket wrench, torque the 2 bolts.

      Torque: 7.1 N.m (72 kgf.cm, 62 in.lbf) 

    9. Install the left and right covers.
    10. Connect the negative (-) terminal to the battery.
  2. INSPECT HORN OPERATION 

    Connect the positive (+) lead from the battery to the terminal and negative (-) lead to the horn body and check that the horn blows.

    If operation is not as specified, replace the horn.

    Fig 3: Inspecting Horn Operation
    G03494516Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  3. INSPECT HORN SWITCH CIRCUIT (See  HORN RELAY CIRCUIT  ) 
  4. INSPECT HORN RELAY CONTINUITY 
    CONDITION AND TESTER CONNECTION

    Condition Tester connection Specified condition
    Always 1 - 2 Continuity
    Apply B+ between terminals 1 and 2. 3 - 5 Continuity

    If continuity is not as specified, replace the relay.

  5. INSPECT HORN RELAY CIRCUIT (See  HORN RELAY CIRCUIT  ) 
    Fig 4: Inspecting Horn Relay Circuit
    G03494517Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.