Acura CL Horn Replacement Guide for 1997-2001 Models
If your Acura CL's horn has gone silent or sounds weak, this guide will help you fix it.
- Your Acura CL has two horns (high and low tone); a weak sound often means one has failed.
- Always check the horn fuse and relay in the under-hood fuse box before buying parts.
- Replacement requires accessing the area behind the front bumper, which may need to be removed.
- Aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition offer a quality, cost-effective alternative to expensive OEM parts.
Is Your Acura CL Horn Failing?
A problem with your horn is usually easy to notice. Before you assume the horn itself is bad, always check the simple things first. Your car's under-hood fuse box contains a fuse and a relay for the horn circuit. Check your owner's manual for the exact location and test or swap them with known good ones to rule them out. If the fuse and relay are fine, the horn itself is likely the problem. Common symptoms include:
- No Sound: The most obvious symptom. When you press the horn pad, nothing happens.
- Weak or Altered Tone: If your horn suddenly sounds quiet, high-pitched, or just "sick," it often means one of the two horns has failed. The remaining horn isn't loud enough on its own.
- Intermittent Function: The horn works some of the time but not others. This can be due to a loose connection or internal failure of the horn.
- Horn Stays On: In rare cases, a faulty horn relay or a problem with the steering wheel's horn switch can cause the horn to get stuck on.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Horn
For the 1997-2001 Acura CL, you don't need to pay high dealership prices for an OEM horn. Aftermarket horns offer excellent value and quality, often meeting or exceeding original specifications. The key is choosing a brand that fits your budget and quality expectations.
Your vehicle has two separate horns, a high-tone and a low-tone. If only one has failed, you can replace just that one. However, they are sold individually, and it is often a good idea to replace them in pairs to ensure a matched tone and longevity, especially given the age of the vehicle.
Brand Options
- Standard Ignition: This is a well-respected brand in the aftermarket for electrical components. Standard Ignition horns are designed as direct OE replacements, ensuring proper fit and a sound that is very close to the original factory tone. They are a reliable choice for owners who want a quality part that will last.
- Replacement: This is a budget-friendly option. These horns are designed to function correctly and get your car to pass a safety inspection without the higher cost of a premium brand. While they may not have the same long-term durability or precise tone as a brand like Standard Ignition, they are an effective and economical solution.
Cost of Horn Replacement (1997-2001 Acura CL)
| Part Type | Price Range (Per Horn) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Horn | $36 - $58 |
| New OEM Horn | $70 - $120 |
| Used OEM Horn | $20 - $40 |
| Shop Labor | $180 - $270 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the horn myself?
Yes, this is a manageable DIY job for someone with basic tools. The main challenge is accessing the horns, which may require removing the front bumper cover. The horns themselves are only held on by a single bolt and have a simple electrical connector.
Where are the horns located on my Acura CL?
The two horns are located behind the front bumper cover, in front of each front wheel. There is one on the driver's side and one on the passenger's side, typically mounted to the frame.
Could a bad clock spring be the problem?
Yes. The clock spring is a special electrical connector in your steering column that allows the steering wheel to turn while maintaining connections for the airbag and horn. If your horn doesn't work but the fuse is good, and you also have an airbag warning light on, the clock spring is a likely culprit. However, if only the horn is failing, the problem is more likely the horn itself or the relay.
Are there any recalls on the horn for my Acura CL?
No, there are no specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the horn on the 1997-2001 Acura CL. There are, however, several important airbag recalls for this vehicle. If you are working near the steering wheel, it is critical to disconnect the battery and wait at least 10 minutes to avoid accidental airbag deployment.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 38100-SV4-A02 38100-S82-G01 38100-SM4-A01 38150-SF1-003 38150-SM4-A11
System includes one high-tone and one low-tone horn. Each horn uses a 12V electrical connection and grounds through its mounting bracket to the chassis.
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.
- Acura CL: