GMC Yukon Horn Replacement Guide for 2016-2020 Models
If the horn on your GMC Yukon has gone silent, this guide will help you diagnose the problem and choose the right replacement part.
- Always check the horn fuse and relay in the underhood fuse box before assuming the horn itself has failed.
- The 2016-2020 Yukon uses a dual-tone horn system; a weak sound often means one of the two has failed.
- ACDelco is a reliable aftermarket choice as it is GM's own parts brand, ensuring good fit and quality.
- Replacement requires removing the front grille to access the horn assembly located behind it.
Is Your Yukon Horn Really Broken?
Before you spend money on a new horn, it's important to check the simple things first. A horn that doesn't work is often caused by a blown fuse or a bad relay, not a failed horn assembly. These are easy and inexpensive to check yourself.
- Check the Horn Fuse: Open the underhood fuse box, located on the driver's side of the engine compartment. Use the diagram on the fuse box lid to find the horn fuse, which is typically a 15-amp fuse. 🎬 Watch: How to find your horn fuse and relay Pull it out and see if the metal strip inside is broken. If it is, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
- Check the Horn Relay: The horn relay is also in the underhood fuse box. You can test it by swapping it with an identical relay from a non-essential system, like the fog lights. If the horn works with the swapped relay, you've found your problem.
If you can hear a 'click' from the fuse box when you press the horn but the horn doesn't sound, it's a good sign that the fuse, relay, and steering wheel switch are working correctly. This points to a problem with the horn assembly itself or the wiring leading to it.
Symptoms of a Failing Horn
- No Sound: The most obvious symptom is the horn not making any noise when you press the button. After checking the fuse and relay, this usually points to a failed horn or a wiring issue. 🎬 Watch: Troubleshooting common causes for a silent horn
- Weak or Altered Sound: Your Yukon has two horns (high and low tone). If one fails, the horn will sound weak, quiet, or just 'off'. This is a clear sign that at least one of the horn assemblies needs to be replaced.
- Intermittent Operation: A horn that works some of the time but not others often points to a loose electrical connection, corrosion in the connector, or a failing horn contact inside the steering wheel.
A Note on Steering Wheel Issues
While less common, problems inside the steering column, like a faulty clock spring or horn contact, can also prevent the horn from working. These repairs are more complex and involve removing the airbag. If you've confirmed the fuse, relay, and horn assembly are good, the problem may lie in the steering wheel, which is a job best left to a professional mechanic.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Horn
When it comes to replacement parts for your GMC, using a brand with a strong reputation for quality and fit is essential. For the 2016-2020 Yukon, ACDelco is a leading option for aftermarket horns.
ACDelco: As General Motors' own parts brand, ACDelco offers parts that are manufactured to meet original equipment (OE) specifications for fit, form, and function. Choosing an ACDelco horn, whether it's a "GM Genuine Part" or an "ACDelco Gold (Professional)" part, ensures a high level of quality and compatibility with your Yukon's electrical system. While some universal horns might be cheaper, they may require cutting and splicing wires, whereas an ACDelco part is designed to be a direct-fit replacement.
Pro Tip: High Note vs. Low Note
Your Yukon uses two separate horns to create its distinct sound. When ordering a replacement, make sure you are getting the correct one (high note or low note) if you are only replacing one. Often, they are sold as a set or a complete assembly with the bracket included.
Replacement Cost
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (ACDelco) | $63.25 |
| New OEM (GM Genuine) | $45 - $90 |
| Shop Labor | $85 - $125 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $144 - $184 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How difficult is it to replace the horn on my Yukon?
The replacement itself is simple—usually a single bolt and an electrical connector. However, accessing the horn requires removing the large front grille, which can be intimidating for beginners. It involves removing several clips and bolts. For someone with basic tools and confidence, it's a manageable DIY job that takes about an hour. Difficulty: 2/5.
🎬 See this walkthrough on removing the grille and hornsDo I need to replace both horns if only one is broken?
You can replace just the single failed horn (either high or low note). However, they are often sold as a complete assembly with a bracket. Since you've already done the work of removing the grille, and both horns are the same age, many owners choose to replace them as a set to avoid having to do the job again in the near future.
Is there a recall for the horn on the 2016-2020 GMC Yukon?
No, as of late 2024, there are no active recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from GM or the NHTSA for horn failure on the 2016-2020 GMC Yukon. Horn failure is typically considered a standard wear-and-tear repair.
What's the difference between a GM Genuine horn and an ACDelco aftermarket horn?
GM Genuine Parts are the exact same components your Yukon was built with at the factory. ACDelco Gold (Professional) parts are ACDelco's premium aftermarket line, designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications. For a part like a horn, both are excellent choices, with the primary difference often being price and warranty terms.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 84594590 84594588 84566359 85130075 85587715 84501930
Typically a 12V, dual-horn system (high and low note) mounted on a bracket behind the front grille.
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.
- GMC Yukon: