Eagle Talon Horn Replacement and Upgrade Guide (1990-1998)
A no-nonsense guide to fixing your silent or weak Eagle Talon horn.
- Horn failure is common due to their exposed location in the front bumper.
- Your Talon has two horns (high and low tone); a weak sound usually means one has failed.
- Always check the fuse and relay before assuming the horn itself is broken.
- Aftermarket replacements are readily available and can offer a louder, more robust sound than the original.
Is Your Horn Sounding Weak or Not Working at All?
A common complaint among Eagle Talon owners is a horn that sounds weak, often described as a "sick cow," or one that stops working entirely. This is a frequent issue on first and second-generation DSM cars due to the location of the horns. Mounted low in the front bumper, they are exposed to water, road salt, and debris, which can cause corrosion and failure over time. While the horn itself is often the culprit, the problem can also stem from a blown fuse, a bad relay, or issues with the wiring or horn button in the steering wheel.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Horn
The original factory horns on the Eagle Talon are often considered wimpy even when new. Replacing them with aftermarket units is a popular choice for a more authoritative sound. When choosing a new horn, you have a few options.
| Brand Tier | Available Brands | Quality & Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Replacement | Replacement, Standard Ignition | These brands offer direct-fit, OE-style replacements that are designed to install easily and function like the original parts. They are a cost-effective way to get your horn working again for safety inspections. However, be aware that the sound may not be an upgrade. Some owners report that basic replacements can have a "toylike tinny sound." If you just need a functional horn and aren't concerned with tone, these are a solid choice. |
| Upgrade Options | Hella, Stebel, Wolo, etc. | Though not listed in the standard inventory, many Talon owners upgrade to louder, dual-tone horns from brands like Hella or Stebel for a much more noticeable sound. These often require minor wiring modifications, such as crimping on new connectors, but provide a significant improvement in volume and tone over the stock units. |
Pro Tip: Check the Whole Circuit
Before buying new horns, it's wise to do some quick troubleshooting. Check the 10-amp horn fuse in the kick-panel fuse box. You can also listen for a 'click' from the horn relay when the horn button is pressed; this usually indicates the steering wheel button and relay are working. Finally, you can use a multimeter to check for 12-volt power at the horn's electrical connector when a friend presses the horn button. If you have power at the connector, the horn itself has failed.
Aftermarket Horn Cost for 1990-1998 Eagle Talon
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Horn (Single) | $36.29 - $57.52 |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $55 - $110 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does my horn sound so weak or like a sick animal?
This is a very common symptom. Your Talon has a high-tone and a low-tone horn. When one of the two fails, you are only hearing the remaining horn, which results in a weak, strange sound. It's best to replace them in pairs.
Where are the horns located on my Eagle Talon?
You will find two horns, one on the driver's side and one on the passenger's side. They are mounted in the front bumper area, often near the fog lights and ahead of the front wheels. Removing the front bumper or the fender liners may be necessary for easy access.
My horn doesn't work at all. What should I check first?
Start with the easiest things. First, check the horn fuse located in the interior fuse panel. If the fuse is good, listen for a clicking sound from the relay when you press the horn button. If you hear a click, the problem is likely the wiring to the horns or the horns themselves. If you don't hear a click, the problem could be the horn switch in the steering wheel or the relay.
Do I need to do any special wiring to install an aftermarket horn?
For direct OE replacements like those from Standard Ignition, you should be able to plug them right in. For some universal or upgrade horns, you may need to cut off the factory plastic connector and crimp on new female spade connectors to attach to the terminals on the new horn. This is a simple modification that many owners perform.
Technical Specifications
Voltage: 12V. System Type: Dual Horn (High and Low Tone).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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