Q: Car horn honking by itself

asked by on February 21, 2016

The car horn honks by itself whenever I turn the steering wheel.

Your clock spring is likely faulty and shorting. The clock spring is the device between the steering wheel, and steering column. It allows you to control the functions of the steering wheel, and turn the steering wheel, while holding all the wires in one place. Removal of the steering wheel and reprogramming will be required in your case, as will the use of a scan tool and other special tools. I recommend having a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, run a diagnostic inspection of your car horn issue, and recommend the best path to repair.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Can a faulty sensor keep the engine from starting?
Today's automobiles use many different sensors to signal engine controls and computer circuits to start a vehicle's engine and run all the programing for fuel, timing, and emissions control. Bearing this in mind, it is critical for the vehicle's main...
How do you use the turn signals?
You need to signal any time you change direction or change lanes while driving. This information is needed for other drivers to stay safe on the road. All you need to do is use your turn signals. Here’s what you...
Exhaust smoke smells like gas or burning oil.
Hi there. The smoke coming out of your exhaust is most likely oil being burned through your engine. The oil gets into the cylinder by a few ways. The first way is for the oil to get by the oil...
Engine cuts off
Unfortunately, with the information given for your Nissan Maxima, it is difficult to give a proper diagnosis at this time. From this description, I see that you in fact have replaced some components related to this issue already. I feel...
Keyless Entry Security system problem
Hi, thanks for writing in. This is likely related to the anti-theft system in the car going into safe mode. This can be caused for a variety of reasons such as dead or weak battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-battery) or a short in...
Bad smell in AC vent
Hi there. This is a concern I have had a lot of experience with. Has the AC drain grommet been updated or removed? The original grommet was designed with a small slit style opening and was found to not be...
Why does it only go 20 to 30 mph?
Hi there, thanks for writing in. First off, take your Nissan to a different mechanic. Yes; changing the motor would fix the issue, but if they are guessing that the timing chain is the reason why you're consuming as much...
How do I remove the radiator core support on my 2013 Nissan Juke?
I believe you are referring to the upper radiator core support. To remove this component, you'll need to do the following: 1.) Remove the front fascia 2.) Remove the front combination lamp 3.) Remove the headlamps 4.) Disconnect the crash...
Code P2135-Error codes read - Throttle position sensor circuit range/performance. Is this something a regular mechanic can report
Hi there. The P2135 is one of most misdiagnosed trouble codes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p2135-obd-ii-trouble-code-throttle-pedal-position-sensor-switch-a-b-voltage-correlation-by-blake-griffin) for mechanics. This particular trouble code indicates that the Power Control Module (PCM) has detected an erroneous reading regarding the voltages transmitted by throttle position sensor A or...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a Cold Climate
If If you live in a cold climate, likely one of your biggest concerns when you are considering which used vehicle you should buy is how well it will perform in snowy, icy conditions. We have evaluated a number of...
Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Shopping Shopping for a used Mercedes-Benz vehicle often leads many drivers to consider certified pre-owned options. Mercedes-Benz is one of many manufacturers that have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program. Each car manufacturer structures their CPO program differently; read on to...
How to Get Mercedes-Benz Dealership Certified
Mercedes Benz dealerships offer automotive technician jobs to those certified through Mercedes-Benz's Automotive Systems Technical & ELITE programs.