Subaru Brat Horn Replacement Guide (1978-1987)
If your Brat's horn has gone silent, the fix might be simpler and cheaper than you think.
- Always diagnose the electrical system before buying a new horn; the problem is often a fuse, relay, or bad connection.
- The horn unit itself is a simple part and is less likely to fail than the components that power it.
- Standard Ignition is a reputable aftermarket brand for a quality replacement, while 'Replacement' branded parts are a more economical option.
- A direct test of the horn with a 12V source is the fastest way to confirm if the unit has failed.
Is Your Subaru Brat Horn Really Broken?
When the horn stops working on a 1978-1987 Subaru Brat, the horn unit itself is often not the problem. These are simple, tough parts. The issue is usually somewhere else in the electrical circuit. Before you buy a new horn, do these checks first. It could save you time and money.
Diagnose Before You Buy
- Check the Fuse: The horn shares a fuse with other components. Based on owner experiences with first-generation Brats, the horn may be on a 15-amp fuse shared with the clock, hazard lights, stop lights, and wipers. Check your fuse box for any blown fuses and replace as needed. Be careful not to use a fuse with a higher amperage rating, as this can cause wiring damage.
- Check the Relay: You should hear a 'click' from the relay when you press the horn button. If you don't hear a click, the relay could be bad. If you do hear a click but the horn doesn't sound, the problem is likely the horn itself or the wiring to it. Finding the relay can be a challenge; it is typically located under the dashboard.
- Test the Horn Directly: The horn is usually located in the front of the vehicle, behind the grille. Disconnect its wires and use a set of jumper wires to connect it directly to the car's 12V battery. If the horn honks, the horn is good and the problem is in your vehicle's wiring, relay, or horn button.
- Inspect the Wiring: On older vehicles like the Brat, wiring can become corroded or damaged. Pay special attention to the ground wire for the horn and the connections at the steering column.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Horn
If you've confirmed your horn has failed, aftermarket replacements are readily available and are a cost-effective choice, as original OEM parts are likely no longer produced. Aftermarket parts are not necessarily lower quality than original parts. There are two main tiers of brands to consider.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Standard Ignition (Good): Standard Motor Products (SMP) is a well-respected manufacturer known for producing parts that meet or exceed original equipment quality. Their horns are described as durable, direct-fit replacements with a reputation for good performance. Choosing this brand gives you a higher assurance of quality and longevity.
- Replacement (Economy): "Replacement" is a common brand for budget-friendly parts. These parts are designed to function like the original and offer significant savings. While they are a viable option to get your horn working again, the long-term durability may not be on par with a premium aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition.
Cost to Replace a Subaru Brat Horn
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Horn | $36.29 - $77.37 |
| Shop Labor | $60 - $120 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $96 - $197 |
Cost estimates are for the part and typical labor charges, and do not include diagnostic time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the horn located on a 1978-1987 Subaru Brat?
The horn is almost always located at the front of the vehicle to project sound forward. Look behind the front grille, mounted to the radiator support or a similar structural component. You will see a small, typically round or snail-shaped device with one or two wires connected to it.
Why did my horn work sometimes and then stop completely?
Intermittent operation that leads to total failure often points to a failing relay, a loose electrical connection, or a problem in the steering column's horn switch. Corrosion on electrical contacts can also cause this symptom, as the connection may work sometimes and not others.
Can I install a louder, custom horn on my Brat?
Yes, but be careful. Adding a more powerful horn, like a large air horn, may draw more electrical current than the factory wiring and fuse are designed for. This can lead to blown fuses or, in a worst-case scenario, an electrical fire. If you upgrade to a high-power horn, you must use a dedicated wiring harness with an appropriate relay and fuse connected directly to the battery.
Is there a recall on the Subaru Brat horn?
No, there are no known recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Subaru or the NHTSA related to the horn on the 1978-1987 Subaru Brat. Issues with this part are handled on a case-by-case basis as a standard repair.
Technical Specifications
Voltage: 12V
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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.