Chrysler LHS 1994-2001 Horn: A Guide to Diagnosis and Replacement
If your Chrysler LHS horn has gone silent, this guide will help you figure out why and choose the right replacement part.
- Diagnose before you buy; a silent horn is often a bad fuse, relay, or clockspring, not the horn itself.
- If your airbag light is also on, the problem is almost certainly the clockspring.
- The LHS uses a dual-horn system (high and low tone); you can replace just the failed unit or both.
- Standard Ignition is a reputable aftermarket brand for this part, offering OE-style fit and quality.
Is Your Horn Really Broken? Diagnosing the Silence
Before you buy a new horn, it's important to know that the horn itself isn't always the problem. On Chrysler vehicles from this era, a few different parts in the system can fail. A little diagnosis can save you from buying a part you don't need.
Check These First!
🎬 See a breakdown of the top 8 reasons car horns fail.A silent horn is often caused by a less expensive part than the horn itself. Here’s what to check:
- Horn Fuse: The easiest check. A blown fuse will cut power to the entire circuit. If the new fuse blows immediately, you have a short circuit that needs to be found.
- Horn Relay: This small electrical switch can fail, preventing power from reaching the horn. 🎬 Learn how to fix the 6 most common horn problems yourself. You might hear a clicking sound from the fuse box area when you press the horn button, which can indicate a faulty relay.
- Clockspring: This part is inside the steering column and is a very common failure point. It allows the steering wheel buttons to stay connected while the wheel turns. If your airbag light is on or your cruise control has also stopped working, a bad clockspring is the most likely culprit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Horn
If you've confirmed the horn itself has failed, you have a couple of good aftermarket options. Your LHS uses a dual-tone system, meaning it has two separate horns (high and low pitch) that sound together. You can often replace just the one that has failed.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Standard Ignition (SMP): Often considered a higher-quality aftermarket brand, Standard Motor Products manufactures parts that are designed to be direct-fit OE replacements. They use quality materials and are known for their reliability in the professional repair community. Customer reviews for their horns are generally positive, citing good sound and quality construction.
- Replacement: This category typically includes private-label brands. While more budget-friendly, quality can sometimes be inconsistent. However, for a simple part like a horn, they often provide good value and function correctly. They are designed to meet the original fit and function.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Horn | $36.29 - $57.52 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Horn | $50 - $90+ |
| Shop Labor for Horn Replacement | $75 - $150 |
| Shop Labor for Clockspring Replacement | $400 - $600+ |
Pro Tip: Test Before You Install
Before going through the trouble of mounting the new horn, you can test it by connecting it directly to your car's 12V battery with a pair of jumper wires. If it sounds, you know the new part is good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the horns located on my Chrysler LHS?
The horns are located at the front of the vehicle, typically mounted together on a bracket behind the front bumper cover or grille. On the similar Chrysler 300M, there is one on each side at the bottom front of the car. Access may require removing the front grille or splash shields.
My airbag light is on and my horn doesn't work. What's the problem?
This combination of symptoms almost always points to a failed clockspring in the steering column. The clockspring contains the wiring for both the driver's airbag and the horn switch. When it breaks, both systems can fail. Do not buy a new horn until you have had the clockspring checked.
Can I replace the horn myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-friendly job for most home mechanics. It usually involves removing the front grille or a splash shield, unplugging the electrical connector, and removing a single bolt that holds the horn to its bracket. The most important step is correctly diagnosing that the horn is the faulty part 🎬 Watch a professional diagnosis and repair of a Chrysler horn system. before you begin.
Do I need to buy a high-note or low-note horn?
The Chrysler LHS uses two horns to create its signature sound. One is a high-note and the other is a low-note. If only one has failed, your horn may just sound weak or strange. You only need to replace the one that is broken, but it's often a good idea to replace them in pairs, as the other may not be far behind.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Voltage: 12V, Dual Tone (High and Low Note)
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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