If you own a 2016 Subaru Outback and have been facing issues with your horn not working, you’re not alone. Many owners have reported problems with the horn not functioning properly or not working at all. In this article, we will explore some possible reasons for this issue and discuss potential solutions to get your horn working again in no time. So, if you’re tired of being unable to rely on your horn for safety purposes or to alert other drivers, keep reading to find out how to fix this problem.
Possible Causes for a 2016 Subaru Outback Horn Not Working
Blown Fuse
One possible cause for your 2016 Subaru Outback horn not working could be a blown fuse. The horn is connected to the fuse box through a dedicated fuse. If this fuse is blown, it can interrupt the circuit and prevent the horn from functioning properly.
Damaged Horn Button
Another potential cause for the horn not working is a damaged horn button. The horn button, located on the steering wheel, can become worn out or damaged over time. If this happens, it may not be able to properly activate the horn when pressed.
Faulty Wiring Connections
Faulty wiring connections can also be to blame for the horn not working. Over time, the wiring connections that supply power to the horn can become loose or corroded, leading to a poor electrical connection. This can prevent the horn from receiving the necessary power to sound.
Malfunctioning Horn Relay
The horn relay is responsible for supplying power to the horn when the horn button is pressed. If the horn relay malfunctions, it may not properly transmit the electrical signal, resulting in the horn not working.
Faulty Horn
A faulty horn itself can also be the culprit behind the issue. The horn may have worn out over time or been damaged, rendering it unable to produce sound. In this case, the horn will need to be replaced to restore its functionality.
Faulty Clockspring
The clockspring is a vital component in the steering column that allows electrical connections to be made between the steering wheel and the vehicle’s electrical system. If the clockspring becomes faulty or damaged, it can disrupt the circuit for the horn and cause it to stop working.
Dead Battery
A dead or low battery could be a potential cause for the horn not working. If the battery does not have enough power to supply the electrical system, it may not be able to activate the horn when the horn button is pressed.
Faulty Steering Wheel Control Module
The steering wheel control module is responsible for interpreting the signals from the horn button and transmitting them to the horn relay. If this module becomes faulty, it may not be able to properly activate the horn, resulting in the horn not working.
Faulty Combination Switch
The combination switch, located on the steering column, controls various functions including the horn. If this switch becomes faulty, it may not be able to activate the horn when the horn button is pressed, leading to the horn not working.
Faulty Body Control Module
The body control module is responsible for managing various electrical functions in the vehicle, including the horn. If this module becomes faulty, it may not be able to properly activate the horn, resulting in the horn not working.
Troubleshooting Steps for a 2016 Subaru Outback Horn Not Working
Check the Fuse Box
To start troubleshooting the horn issue, begin by checking the fuse box. Locate the fuse that controls the horn and visually inspect it to see if it is blown. If the fuse appears to be blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating.
Inspect the Horn Button
Next, inspect the horn button on the steering wheel. Check for any visible signs of damage or wear. If the horn button appears to be damaged, it may need to be replaced to restore proper functionality.
Inspect the Wiring Connections
Inspect the wiring connections that supply power to the horn. Look for any loose or corroded connections. If any issues are found, clean the connections and ensure they are properly secured.
Test the Horn Relay
Use a multimeter to test the horn relay. Set the multimeter to the appropriate setting for testing continuity and check if the relay is transmitting power when the horn button is pressed. If the relay does not transmit power, it may be faulty and need to be replaced.
Test the Horn
Disconnect the horn from its wiring and use a separate power source, such as a battery, to directly test the horn. Apply power to the horn and listen for a sound. If the horn does not produce any sound, it is likely faulty and should be replaced.
Check the Clockspring
Inspect the clockspring in the steering column for any visible damage or signs of wear. If the clockspring appears to be damaged, it should be replaced to restore proper electrical connections.
Check the Battery
Ensure that the vehicle’s battery is fully charged and functioning properly. Test the battery with a multimeter to check its voltage. If the battery is low or not holding a charge, it may need to be recharged or replaced.
Test the Steering Wheel Control Module
Use a multimeter to test the steering wheel control module. Check if it is properly receiving and transmitting signals when the horn button is pressed. If the module is not functioning correctly, it may need to be replaced.
Test the Combination Switch
Test the combination switch on the steering column to ensure it is properly activating the horn. If the switch is not working correctly, it may need to be replaced to restore horn functionality.
Inspect the Body Control Module
Lastly, inspect the body control module for any visible signs of damage or malfunction. If the module is not functioning properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced to restore proper horn operation.
Possible Solutions for a 2016 Subaru Outback Horn Not Working
Replace Blown Fuse
If the fuse controlling the horn is blown, it should be replaced with a new fuse of the same amperage rating.
Replace Damaged Horn Button
If the horn button on the steering wheel is damaged, it should be replaced to ensure proper activation of the horn.
Repair Faulty Wiring Connections
If any faulty wiring connections are found, they should be repaired or replaced to ensure a proper electrical connection for the horn.
Replace Malfunctioning Horn Relay
A faulty horn relay should be replaced to restore power transmission to the horn.
Replace Faulty Horn
If the horn itself is faulty and not producing sound, it should be replaced with a new horn.
Replace Faulty Clockspring
A damaged or faulty clockspring should be replaced to restore proper electrical connections in the steering column.
Recharge or Replace Dead Battery
If the battery is dead or not holding a charge, it should be recharged or replaced to ensure sufficient power for the horn.
Replace Faulty Steering Wheel Control Module
A faulty steering wheel control module should be replaced to restore proper activation of the horn.
Replace Faulty Combination Switch
If the combination switch on the steering column is not working correctly, it should be replaced to ensure proper horn activation.
Repair or Replace Faulty Body Control Module
A faulty body control module should be repaired or replaced to restore proper management of the horn function.
Preventive Maintenance for Subaru Outback Horn System
Regularly Check the Fuse
Make it a habit to regularly check the fuse that controls the horn. Check for any signs of damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.
Keep the Horn Button Clean and Functional
Keep the horn button on the steering wheel clean and free from dust or debris. Regularly check its functionality by pressing it to ensure it activates the horn.
Check and Clean Wiring Connections
Periodically inspect the wiring connections that supply power to the horn. Clean any corrosion and ensure the connections are secure.
Regularly Test the Horn
Test the horn on a regular basis to ensure it is producing sound. Press the horn button and listen for a clear and audible sound.
Monitor the Clockspring’s Condition
Keep an eye on the condition of the clockspring in the steering column. Look for any signs of damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.
Ensure the Battery is Fully Charged
Regularly check the vehicle’s battery to ensure it is fully charged and functioning properly. A healthy battery is crucial for the horn to work effectively.
Maintain the Steering Wheel Control Module
Keep the steering wheel control module in good condition by regularly checking its functionality. Ensure it properly receives and transmits signals when the horn button is pressed.
Keep the Combination Switch in Good Condition
Regularly inspect the combination switch on the steering column to ensure it is functioning correctly. Replace it if any issues are found.
Monitor the Body Control Module’s Performance
Monitor the performance of the body control module, particularly its management of the horn function. If any issues arise, have it repaired or replaced.
Conclusion
If your 2016 Subaru Outback horn is not working, there are several possible causes and troubleshooting steps to consider. By systematically checking the fuse, horn button, wiring connections, horn relay, horn itself, clockspring, battery, steering wheel control module, combination switch, and body control module, you can identify the problem and determine the appropriate solution. Remember to also perform preventive maintenance on the horn system to ensure ongoing functionality. By regularly checking the fuse, horn button, wiring connections, horn, clockspring, battery, steering wheel control module, combination switch, and body control module, you can prevent potential issues and maintain a properly functioning horn system in your Subaru Outback.