Acura Integra Horn Replacement and Diagnosis Guide (1990-2001)
Your complete guide to diagnosing and replacing the horn on your 1990-2001 Acura Integra.
- Always check the fuse and relay before buying a new horn; it's the most common cause of failure.
- The horn is located behind the front bumper, and while removing the bumper makes access easy, it's not always required.
- Aftermarket horns from brands like Standard Ignition are reliable, and this is a good opportunity to upgrade to a louder horn for better safety.
- A clicking sound when you press the horn button usually means the problem is the horn itself or its wiring, not the switch in the steering wheel.
Is Your Horn Really Broken?
Before you buy a new horn for your Integra, it's important to know that the horn itself is often the last part of the system to fail. Owners frequently find that the problem lies elsewhere in the electrical circuit. If your horn doesn't work at all, do these checks first:
- Check the Fuse: On many Integras, the horn fuse is shared with the brake lights. If your brake lights work, the fuse is likely okay. If not, check the fuse box under the hood.
- Listen for the Relay: Have a friend press the horn button while you listen for a 'click' from the fuse box area under the dash. If you hear a click, the relay is getting power, which means the problem is likely the horn itself or the wiring to it. If there's no click, the problem could be the relay or the horn switch in the steering wheel.
- Consider the Clock Spring: A common failure point in the steering column is the 'clock spring' or cable reel. This part allows the steering wheel to turn while maintaining an electrical connection for the airbag and horn. A faulty clock spring can prevent the horn button from working. 🎬 Watch: How to troubleshoot horn electrical issues and clock springs.
Symptoms of a Failing Horn
When the horn unit itself begins to fail, the signs are usually straightforward. You might notice the sound getting weaker or changing pitch over time. Sometimes only one of the two horns (high or low tone) will stop working, resulting in a wimpy or unusual sound. In other cases, physical damage from road debris can cause the horn to stop working suddenly.
No Recalls for This Part
There are no active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Acura or the NHTSA for the horn assembly on any 1990-2001 Acura Integra. Recalls you may see online for the "Acura Integra" are for much newer 2023-2025 models and relate to the steering system, not the horn.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Horn
The original factory horns on the Integra are known for being adequate, but not very loud. Because of this, replacing a broken horn with an aftermarket part is a very common and practical choice. You have a couple of quality tiers to consider.
Brand Tiers
- Standard Ignition: This is a well-regarded brand in the aftermarket industry, known for producing parts that meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications. A horn from Standard Ignition will be a direct-fit replacement that offers reliable performance and a factory-like sound. This is a solid choice for an owner who wants a dependable, no-fuss repair.
- Replacement Brand: This category represents more budget-friendly, often unbranded parts. They are designed to be a direct fit and will get the job done at a lower cost. While they are a functional option, they may not have the same level of quality control or long-term durability as a named brand like Standard Ignition.
Pro Tip: An Opportunity to Upgrade
Since you are already replacing the horn, many owners use this as a chance to upgrade to a louder set. Aftermarket horn kits from brands like Hella are popular in the Integra community for their increased volume and more aggressive tone, which can be a significant safety improvement. These kits often require minor wiring modifications.
🎬 See how to install a louder Hella horn kit yourself.Cost of Replacing an Acura Integra Horn
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $100 - $160 |
| New Aftermarket (Replacement, Standard Ignition) | $36 - $58 |
| Used OEM | $20 - $50 |
| Shop Labor | $60 - $120 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the horn located on a 1990-2001 Acura Integra?
The horn (or horns) are located at the front of the car, behind the bumper and in front of the radiator. They are typically mounted on the passenger side of the radiator support.
Is it difficult to replace the horn myself?
No, it is a relatively easy job for a DIY mechanic. The main challenge is accessing the horn. While removing the front bumper makes the job very easy, it is often possible to reach the horn from underneath the car. The replacement itself is just one bolt and one electrical connector.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to testing and replacing your Integra horn.My horn just makes a clicking sound. What does that mean?
A clicking sound from the relay when you press the horn button is a good sign. It means the switch in your steering wheel and the relay are working. The problem is likely a bad horn, a corroded connector at the horn, or a broken wire between the relay and the horn.
Do I need to buy a special tool to replace my horn?
You will only need basic hand tools, such as a socket set and wrenches (typically 10mm or 12mm). If you choose an aftermarket horn that doesn't have a factory-style plug, you may also need wire strippers and crimpers to attach new connectors.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 38100-SH3-G02 38150-SH3-G02 38100-SCP-W02 38150-SH3-G01 38100-SH3-G01
Voltage: 12V, Configuration: High and Low Tone Pair
We Have This Part in Stock
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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