Audi S6 Horn Replacement Guide (1995-2004)
Diagnosing and replacing the weak or silent horn on your C4 or C5 Audi S6.
- The most common failure is a weak or raspy sound, which means one of the two horns has failed.
- Accessing the horns requires removing the front bumper cover, making replacement a labor-intensive job.
- Before buying parts, check the horn fuse and listen for a relay click to rule out simpler electrical issues.
- If the airbag light is on and the horn is dead, the problem is likely the clock spring, not the horn itself.
Is Your Audi S6 Horn Not Working?
A common issue on the 1995-2004 Audi S6 is a horn that sounds weak, strange, or stops working completely. Because your car has two horns (high-tone and low-tone), the most common failure is one of the two units failing. This leaves the remaining horn to sound by itself, which results in a weak or 'raspy' tone. Before buying parts, a few simple checks can help you find the real problem.
Simple Diagnostic Checks
- Check the Fuse: The easiest first step. A blown fuse will cause the horn to be completely silent. On C5 models (1998-2004), this is typically fuse number 40 in the fuse panel on the driver's side of the dashboard.
- Listen for the Relay Click: Have a friend press the horn button while you listen for a 'click' sound from the fuse box area. If you hear a click, the steering wheel button and relay are likely working, and the problem is probably the horn itself or the wiring to it.
- Check for an Airbag Light: If your horn is completely silent AND your airbag warning light is on, the problem is almost certainly a failed 'clock spring' in the steering column. This part requires a more involved repair.
- Water Intrusion: An official Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) notes that water can get into the horn, causing a distorted sound. Sometimes, simply letting it dry out or shaking the water out can fix the issue, but often the damage is permanent.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Horn
When replacing your S6 horn, you have several quality tiers of aftermarket parts available. Since accessing the horns requires significant labor, choosing a quality part is recommended to avoid doing the job twice.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
| Brand | Quality Tier | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hella | Premium Aftermarket / OEM Supplier | Hella is a German company that supplies parts to many European car makers, including Audi. Their aftermarket horns are known for excellent quality, durability, and often a louder, more authoritative tone than stock horns. This is a top choice for a long-lasting replacement or an upgrade. |
| Standard Ignition (SMP) | Quality Aftermarket | Standard Ignition is a well-respected brand that produces reliable replacement parts that meet or exceed original specifications. Their horns are designed to be a direct, factory-style replacement, offering a dependable, no-frills solution. |
| Replacement | Value / Economy | This is a generic category for budget-friendly horns. While they will get the job done and pass a safety inspection, their sound quality and lifespan may not match that of premium brands. Given the labor involved in replacement, this is often a short-term solution. |
Installation Notes
Difficulty: Moderate to High. Replacing the horns on both the C4 (1995-1997) and C5 (1998-2004) Audi S6 requires removing the front bumper cover to access the horns, which are mounted to the radiator support. This involves removing screws in the wheel wells and under the bumper. While not technically complex, it is labor-intensive and requires care to avoid scratching the paint.
Cost of Replacing an Audi S6 Horn
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Horn | $36 - $72 |
| Shop Labor Cost | $150 - $300 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $186 - $372 |
Cost estimates are for a single horn replacement and can vary by location and shop rates. Labor costs are high due to the need to remove the front bumper for access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I need the high-tone or low-tone horn?
The easiest way is to have someone press the horn while you listen carefully at the front of the car to see which side is silent. The low-tone horn is typically on the driver's side, and the high-tone is on the passenger's side. Alternatively, you can access the horns and test each one directly with a 12V power source to see which one has failed.
Can I replace just one horn?
Yes, you only need to replace the failed unit. However, since they are the same age and have been exposed to the same conditions, the other horn may fail soon after. Because the replacement is labor-intensive, many owners choose to replace both horns at the same time to save on future labor costs.
Is the driving horn the same as the alarm horn?
No. The driving horns are activated by the steering wheel. The anti-theft alarm system uses a separate, often battery-powered, siren located elsewhere in the car, such as the trunk area or plenum. A fault code for the alarm horn (H12) does not relate to the driving horns.
Can I install a louder aftermarket horn?
Yes. Brands like Hella offer horns that are significantly louder than factory units. As long as the horn uses a standard 12V connection, it can be installed. Ensure it is mounted securely to prevent vibration and damage.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4A0951223C 4A0951221C
System Type: Dual Horn (High-Tone & Low-Tone) Voltage: 12V
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.
- Audi S6: