A Guide to Replacing the Horn on Your 1998-2000 Volvo S70
A silent horn is a safety risk; here’s how to diagnose the problem and choose the right replacement for your S70.
- Before buying a new horn, always test the fuse and relay first; they are the most common failure points.
- A non-working horn combined with an SRS airbag light strongly suggests a failed clock spring in the steering column.
- Your S70 has two horns (high and low tone); identify which one failed before ordering a replacement.
- Aftermarket horns from brands like Standard Ignition are a cost-effective and reliable alternative to OEM parts.
Is Your Volvo S70 Horn Silent?
When you press the horn on your S70 and nothing happens, the issue might not be the horn itself. Based on owner experiences, the problem often lies with other components in the system. Before you replace the horns, it's wise to check the simple things first.
Common Failure Points
- Fuse & Relay: The most common culprits are a blown fuse or a failed horn relay. Swapping the horn relay with an identical one from the fuse box is a quick and free diagnostic test.
- Clock Spring: This part, also called a contact reel, is inside the steering column. It allows the horn and airbag to stay connected while the steering wheel turns. If it breaks, the horn will stop working, and you will likely also see an SRS airbag warning light on your dashboard.
- Horn Stuck On: If your horn won't turn off, the problem is almost certainly the small plastic contact tabs inside the steering wheel hub that have broken.
- The Horns: The horns themselves can fail from age, corrosion, or water damage, but they are generally reliable. Your S70 has two horns—a high tone and a low tone—and it's unusual for both to fail at the same time.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Horn
If you've confirmed the horn itself is the problem, aftermarket options offer a reliable and affordable solution. Your Volvo has two separate horns for high and low tones. You can replace just the failed one, but replacing them as a pair is often a good idea for a balanced sound.
Brand Quality
- Standard Ignition: This is a well-known and respected brand in the aftermarket world. Their horns are designed to be direct-fit replacements that meet or exceed original factory specifications for sound and durability. Owners generally report a loud, quality sound from Standard Ignition horns.
- Replacement: This brand offers a direct-fit, budget-friendly alternative. If you need to get your horn working again without spending much, this is a practical choice that will function correctly and pass a safety inspection.
Pro Tip: High Tone vs. Low Tone
The two horns on your S70 are not interchangeable; one is for the high note (marked 'H') and one for the low note (marked 'L'). Before ordering, identify which one has failed. You can do this by having a helper press the horn while you listen close to each one. If only one is working, its sound will be noticeably weaker and higher or lower than normal.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Horns (per pair) | $36.29 - $77.37 |
| Shop Labor | $60 - $120 |
Note: Costs are estimates and may vary based on your location and the specific repair shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my horn fuse is blown?
Locate the fuse box (refer to your owner's manual). Find the fuse for the horn and pull it out. Look at the thin metal strip inside. If that strip is broken, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced with one of the same amperage. A blown fuse can sometimes indicate a deeper electrical problem.
Where are the horns located on my S70?
The horns are located at the front of the car, behind the grille. Some owners have successfully replaced them by only removing the grille, which is held on by clips. However, the official procedure often involves removing the front bumper cover for full access.
Is replacing the horn a difficult job?
For a DIYer with basic tools, this is a manageable job. It involves removing either the grille or the bumper, unplugging the electrical connector, and undoing a single 10mm bolt for each horn. The difficulty is low (if accessing through the grille) to moderate (if removing the bumper). It should take about an hour.
Will an aftermarket horn sound different?
It might. Quality aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition aim to replicate the factory sound. However, very low-cost universal horns may sound tinnier or different from the original Volvo tone. Replacing both the high and low tone horns at the same time with a matched set will ensure a proper, blended sound.
Technical Specifications
System consists of one high-tone horn and one low-tone horn.
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.
- Volvo S70: