1979 Subaru FE Horn Replacement and Troubleshooting Guide
If your classic Subaru FE's horn has gone silent, this guide will help you diagnose the problem and choose the right new part.
- For the 1979 Subaru FE, new aftermarket horns are the only practical option as OEM parts are no longer available.
- Always check the fuse and relay before deciding to replace the horn unit itself.
- Brands like 'Replacement' offer a cost-effective solution, while 'Standard Ignition' provides a higher-quality, durable option.
- Replacing the horn is a simple, beginner-friendly DIY task that requires basic tools and less than an hour.
Is Your Subaru FE's Horn Failing?
For a classic car like the 1979 Subaru FE, horn failures are almost always due to age. The internal components can corrode or the electrical connections can fail. Before you assume the horn itself is broken, there are a few simple checks you can do.
Common Failure Symptoms
- No Sound: The most common symptom. Pressing the horn button does nothing. This could be the horn, the fuse, the relay, or the wiring.
- Weak or "Tinny" Sound: If the horn sounds quiet or different than it used to, the horn unit itself is likely failing internally. Sometimes, vehicles have two horns (a high and low tone), and one has failed.
- Horn Works Intermittently: This often points to a loose connection, a failing relay, or a problem in the steering column's clock spring.
- Horn Stays On: This is less common and usually indicates a short circuit in the horn button or relay. 🎬 Learn more about why car horns fail and how they work.
Diagnosing the Issue: Fuse, Relay, or Horn?
Don't buy a new horn until you've checked the basics. It can save you time and money.
- Check the Fuse: The first and easiest step. Locate the fuse box and find the fuse for the horn. If it's blown, replace it and test the horn. If it blows again, you have a short circuit that needs professional diagnosis.
- Check the Relay: The horn relay is a small electrical switch. You can often hear it 'click' when you press the horn button. If you don't hear a click, the relay might be the problem.
- Test the Horn Directly: If the fuse and relay are good, the horn itself is the next suspect. 🎬 Watch this full diagnostic walkthrough for a non-working Subaru horn. You can carefully use a jumper wire from the car battery to the terminals on the horn to see if it makes a sound. If it does, the problem is in the wiring or switch. If it doesn't, the horn is dead.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Horn
Original Equipment (OEM) horns for a 1979 Subaru FE are no longer produced. Your only option for a new part is the aftermarket. Fortunately, aftermarket horns are affordable and reliable. For your vehicle, you'll find direct-fit options that make installation simple.
🎬 See how to install a new aftermarket horn on your Subaru.Aftermarket Brand Comparison
| Brand | Tier | Our Take |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement | Standard Replacement | This brand offers a budget-friendly, direct-fit horn. It's designed to meet the basic specifications of the original part and get your horn working again without a fuss. It's a practical choice for a daily driver or a restoration on a budget. |
| Standard Ignition (SMP) | Premium Aftermarket | Standard Motor Products is a well-respected name in automotive electrical parts with a long history. Their horns are known for being robust and reliable, often meeting or exceeding OE specifications. While it may cost a little more, it's a solid investment for long-term durability. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the horn located on a 1979 Subaru FE?
On most Subarus from this era, the horn is located at the very front of the engine bay, typically mounted to the radiator support or a nearby bracket. You may need to look behind the grille to spot it. It will be a small, round, or trumpet-shaped component with a wire connected to it.
Is replacing the horn a difficult job?
No, this is a great DIY job for a beginner. It usually involves unplugging one electrical connector and removing a single bolt. The entire process should take less than 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
Do I need a specific high or low tone horn?
While some cars use two horns for a blended tone, the 1979 FE likely used a single horn. Aftermarket replacements are generally sold as a single-tone unit that will work perfectly. You can choose a high or low tone based on personal preference, but either will function correctly.
Why are OEM parts not an option?
Automakers typically only produce replacement parts for a certain number of years after a vehicle is sold. For a 1979 model, the supply of new original parts from Subaru has long been exhausted. The only way to get an OEM horn would be to find a used one from a salvage yard.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Voltage: 12V, Terminal Quantity: 1 or 2, Tone: High or Low
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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.