Many many thanks for your video! After I obtained the o-rings and wrench, I completed the task in about 30mins. Girl Power! The dealer quote was $790 to replace the whole bracket.
Great video. It took me 30 minutes and saved me $300 quoted from a Porsche mechanic. btw, it is the same fix on a Carrera 996. You saved me $300! Thank you!
On the spot, thank you… Fixed my Boxster ’97 today. After reading the comment about adjusting the bolts too much and not being able to fix this problem, I adjusted the 19mm bolts with my fingers. I disconnected the battery and the work took me a bit more than one hour. Great video.
My '99 Carrera horn has been very sensitive lately, but when it went off at 5:30 this morning, and again at 7:30, I figured I needed to do something. Went online, found your video, ran to Home Depot, bought a socket set, torx set (like yours), and the #231 O-rings (in the plumbing section). Came home and fixed the horn in about 20 mins. Thanks so much for the video!
I just did this job today, took it back apart to add my 2 remaining washers on the back of the plate at the bottom (doubled them up at the back). I really do think the correct way to do it is 1 on each at the front and 2 on each at the back. I've owned my Boxster for about 12 years now, this is the second time I've had this problem, first time I've fixed it myself. Going to order more washers and eventually take it back apart but I do think the 10 washers on it now will work. She's my daily driver at the moment so I'll find out very fast ;).
Just did this fix on a 1999 carrera coupe and it was very easy. Went to home depot and got the package of 10 #231 O-rings in the plumbing department and then put 2 of them on the front and back of all four corners. Don't forget to get some loctite blue on the air bag screws when reassembling. Worked like a charm. Thanks!
Many thanks for this helpful video. I have just repaired my horn bracket using O rings bought here in France from my local DIY store in the plumbing section ("Joint torique n°8"). The problem on mine was the lower left rubber joint of the metal plate had sheared and part of it remained on the shaft of the bolt when I removed it. My solution was to put a n°8 and then a n°9 (slightly larger) on the bolt, put the bolt in the hole on the metal plate, then a n°9 on the back of the plate followed by a n°8. I put n°8 on the front and back of the other 3 bolts as in the video. So far all is working fine, time will tell if it holds out. Thanks once again as I was envisaging big bills at a garage and in the end it cost me 5 euros. A new plate is not that expensive, so if the O rings don't hold long term then I'll change the whole thing.
Just did the fix. I didn't bother with the battery, just pulled the 25 amp B3 fuse and didn't unplug any wires at all. Took about 15 minutes. Thanks for the tip on the #31 O-rings, fit like a glove.
THANKS! This video is a gem! The shop I had my Boxster at wanted $400 just to change out the bracket with a new one for this fix. Thanks to you I now have a working horn and only spent $17 (#31 o-rings, torx set from harbor freight, and box of new 25 amp fuses). Awesome!
Hi ! it's Denis from Nice in the south of France. I had the same problem on my 996 Carrera. So when i saw your video, i've decided to fix it myself. I ordered the rings on Amazone and I made the repair this morning by following your video and now it's ok ! I can now brake hard without alerting the poulation around ! :-)) Thanks for your help. Denis.
Thanks for the fix! Works great and saved money. Couldn't find the o-ring at Home Depot but the general measurement of the o-ring mentioned is 9/16" OD x 5/16" ID x 1/8" wall. Took those numbers to HD and found the matching dimensions.
Great video !!! Saved me over $300.00. The instruction is right on, the T30 screws where a pain to unscrew because of the angle, but once unscrewed the airbag pops right off. Other then that no problems. Thank you again for making the video and please keep them coming.
Brilliant, a couple of added tips. In europe I used number 8 o rings approx 14/8 mm. I used a dab of contact adhesive to hold the rings in place. Another UA-cam victory.
OMG!!! GREAT and easy repair. I happen to have the o-rings in my garage and it took less than 20 minutes to do the job. If you wanna make sure the o-rings stay in place when putting back the plate, I used my heat gun to give them a little stick. Cost to me basically ZERO vs the $300 some people here have mentioned.
Great video! used the #31oring from Lowes plumbing area. make sure you have your radio code, you will need it when you re-connect the battery. took 20 minutes to complete.
Great video! A really easy fix to a really annoying problem. I did not disconnect the wire from the bracket and had no problem putting the o-rings in place
my car is a 2000 model lancer, but since i cant find some bushing to replace the old ones. i tried to loosen up the screws and tightened them back.. and it works! thanks you!
Worked for me too. Buy the O rings from Home Depot O ring # 231 you get 10 of em. I didn't listen to the instructions the first time and only put the front ones on. Hooked everything back up and woke my neighbor who works nights, he is very big and was very angry. Had a hard time finding a long enough # 30 Torx but Harbor Freight had the folding wrench like in the video for $7. I drove around for 6 months without a horn very frustrating but now when someone is texting at a stop light in front of me they will know when it turns green. Thanks
Thank You for your video, it worked perfectly! We were trailering my 2000 Porsche Boxter to California, and every time I hit the brakes on my truck the Porsche would honk the horn, and every time I would turn to see who is honking at me, funny!!
Thank you very much for this video, my 1998 Boxster was experiencing the exact same symptoms. I followed your instructions and all is well. Note to other readers: the Torx screws on mine were extremely difficult to break loose, slip a box wrench over the "L" shaped Torx wrench to gain leverage. Thanks again.
My horn kept going off to the point where I had to get the 25 amp fuse out of slot B3. I found your video and it worked like a charm in no time. I will link your video to my UA-cam channel in my next Vlog taking about the horn. Thanks!
If you're using the Harbor Freight metric O-ring set that comes in a 397 piece kit, I had luck with #11/P8, 7.8 id and 11.6 od. I used 2 on the back of the bushing and one on the front, works great! I didn't read through all the comments, so sorry if this has been mentioned. 1998 Boxster w/ 4 spoke steering wheel.
Thanks for making this video...I followed it with the exact same results! Even went to Home Depot and bought the o-rings and thanks for including the size of the o-rings
THANK YOU!!! 5 minutes to watch the video + $3 at Home Depot + 10 minutes to perform the repair = Like new. I can drive my car again without fear of inadvertently honking at strangers every time I hit the brakes.
Ran into this issue and at first was OK with it as if I had to hit the brakes very hard, there was a reason to honk the horn. Thought this should be an option on all cars. But after a while, especially as I am a hard braker anyway, I decided to look into the repair. The business card trick worked beautifully until I was able to make the repair. Thanks for the vid.
THANK YOU!! My mechanic was going to charge me 2 hours labor. I have a 1997 993 Turbo worked on it last night took me 20 minutes that's after disconnecting my battery for 24 hours ago. I bought the #31 from amazon for $2.49
Yes, Yes....thank you. The horn just started going off when braking or going down hill! This fixed it. Took me a bit longer because the torx screw was a bugger to deal with. And I didn't listen carefully to you saying to place the o-rings front "and" back. The video only showed you putting them on the front. So guess what, I only put them on the front and as soon as I hooked up the battery the horn started blaring. Then I unhooked the battery and forgot to wait another 1/2 hour on the airbag....but it didn't deploy, so that was good. Also, the airbag came unplugged when I laid it down on the steering wheel. I moved and it fell off into the seat coming unplugged. Guess it was ok to just plug it back in.....that's what I did. Anyway, now the horn works like it is supposed to!
I just bought my 1997 Porsche Boxster and realized that the horn did not work so I got on youtube and came upon your entry so I watched it and then I looked at my fuse box and it did not have a fuse for the horn I put one in and the horn went off, then I fixed my horn thanks to you! I was confused and did not buy enough gaskets, I did not see you put them on both sides, you mentioned both sides my fault. Thanks looking forward to your other helpfull video's!!
Thanks for the video......I installed the o-rings on both sides of the bracket (front and back)... and the "hypersensitive horn" is fixed...15-20 minutes and done.....I did not have to disconnect anything....just moved the airbag and sat it on top of the steering column..thanks again
Thank you so much. Home Depot has the O-rings as #231 in their plumbing section. Lowes has #31 indicated in small type on a tag above their plumbing selection. the rings are 5/16 ID, 9/16 OD, and 1/8" thickness.
Nice video, very helpful, thanks! But note that on older 996's (mine is a '99) the bolts are 17mm, not 19mm. Other than that, everything else seems the same.
I just wanted to thank you for such a great video. I had the same issue with my 99 986 and your concise instructions were perfect with the amount of detail and tools needed. Home Depot did not have #31 O-rings, but Lowes did. Everything works great now and all for less than $3 and 20 minutes effort. Thanks again!!
Great video! Thanks! You should mention that you will need a long skinny T-30. A T-30 socket or a short T-30 bit in a screw driver socket will not fit through the back of the steering wheel. Also, there is no need to disconnect the horn leads if you have disconnected the battery. It's better to leave old wires alone or you may have another project on your hands.
Previous owner pulled the fuse. Was quoted a ridiculous amount from the dealer. I went to execute this money saving tip and the damn screw heads are stripped. I bet dealer did that shit on purpose. NOW WHAT? Any suggestions?
I had the horn problem...I had to put the o rings on the front AND on the back side of the bracket...just on the front didn't fix it...but the bushings were really worn... works like new again for $2.49 and 15 minutes of work!
I can't believe I waited so long to do this, it is super easy and it works! ANYONE can do this fix! If you are nervous about the airbag, don't be, make sure you disconnect the battery 1 hour before, wear gloves, and keep I foot on the ground for triple the safety. even if you don't have the tools, this fix will cost you maybe $10.00 and a 1/2 hour of your time.
Excellent video. Would you be kind enough to post a video on how to remove center console and change a faulty handbrake switch. It prevents roof mechanism from working and seems to be a common problem. Thanks.
don't do this without thinking about all the implications and consequences… thinking out load here... I might take a tool like a Dremel and fully grind off the head of the screw? just so I could get it apart, and deal with what comes after. how much did they quote?
Thank you for this helpful video! I have a 993 96 and was wondering if this can be done without disconnecting the battery? Having to do the readiness codes is really painful.
You may not need to disconnect battery, it is disconnected for two reasons, 1. if you disconnect the airbag electrical connector you will not get a code (you don't actually need to disconnect the airbag electrical connector to do this repair), and 2. to lessen the chance of the airbag blowing up.
Same problem with my 99 Boxster with 105K miles. Bought the O rings at HD for $2.27 + tax and borrowed the T30 Torx which I had never previously heard of. Had the 19mm socket and ratchet. Disconnect the negative wire from the battery. Next, It's a little tricky loosening the air bag screws but be patient while connecting the T30 torx to the two screws. You'll feel it click into place then you can turn it loose. Be careful not to lose these screws when you pull bag out. They just sit in place loosely and can be easily put back in if they fall out. The removing of the bracket is very easy with the 4 bolts loosened with the 19mm socket. I did not find in necessary to disconnect any wiring. I actually was able to set the air bag on top of the steering wheel while doing the repair which freed up both of my hands. The O rings just need to be pressed on both sides of the bracket and it's not an exact science. Just press them on as best you can and the bolt going through the bracket will pretty much keep them in place. Once the eight O rings are on, make sure that the two screws that attach the air bag are seated in place and slide the air bag back into place over the two screws. You'll be able to eye them up while sliding the air bag into place. Tighten the screws until the air bag is tight in the steering wheel. Tighten the four bolts in the mounting bracket until just snug. NOT too tight. Reconnect negative cable and fire the Boxster back up. The fix works like a charm. Took the car out for a test drive and I can now brake hard and steer hard into corners without the horn going off. I do have to press down harder to honk the horn but that is fine. A sensitive horn is a pain in the ass! Thanks for the video! This was a real money and time saver! Here in Florida, I was sweating my ass off and cursing some but all in all it was a very easy fix. Probably 30 minutes or so. I think my dealer wanted about $500 to replace the bracket. My total out of pocket was $2.42
I have a '95 911 (993). Socket size is 17 mm, Torx screwdriver is #T27. O-ring size is right on, but put it behind the grommet not on the front, as he shows in the video. If you place it in the front or on both sides, the airbag assembly does not seat completely.
thanks for the tool size info for the 993! On the 986/996 if you don't put an o-ring on the front it can be too sensitive. Is horn sensetivity good on your 993 with just on the back side?
Sitting in the driver's seat, I'm suggesting you put it"behind" (towards the front of the car as the bracket is mounted). The honking occurs because as you brake, the heavy airbag "lurches" forward, honking the horn. The rubber gasket, which used to support the airbag is too weak to keep it in place and it contacts the adjacent metal. I originally bought a new bracket. There are at least two different types and the part that was shipped from Pelican Parts was not correct. I elected to try a "quick fix" with the "O" rings and it worked. Pelican parts was great and accepted the return of the incorrect part.
Great Video - I'm going to do this soon. Last time I disconnected the battery I had to find my radio code to get it working again. Does that happen with this procedure
Great video and $$$ saver! Dealer wants $410.00 to replace bracket, on my '96 C4S, just for this fix !!! Before I attempt this tho, quick question: - At about 4:00 min into the vid, after you've added the O rings, and BEFORE replacing the 9mm screws/bolts, you mention "sliding the Torx screws that hold the airbag in" - they appear to be behind/under the mounting bracket... didn't see you removing those - can you tell me what size Torx THOSE are- T-30 as well ?? Thanks much !
Thank you!!! This fix is better and will last longer than buying a new Porsche horn bracket. $2.50 is the total cost. The airbag screws were tighter than expected as they have some thread locker, but everything else is a breeze.
hello, thank you so much for the video! I own a porsche boxster in France, and I asked a question, what is the size of the O-rings do you use? in millimeter? thank you in advance for your reply!
Gabriel mounier #31 O-Rings... 9/16" x 5/16" x 1/8" Inside Diameter: 5/16 in = 7.9 mm, Outside Diameter: 9/16 in = 1.4 cm, Wall Thickness: .125 in = 3.175 mm
Thanks for this vid. I am going to attempt this soon on my 99 996. So, by disconnecting the battery for 30+ minutes we are in no risk of accidentally deploying the airbag? Just want to make sure. Thanks again.
i think i have the same issue on my 99 boxter. The horn became so sensitive that a slight touch would make it go off. Then I garaged the car for 20 days and when I came back it completely stopped working. The fuse was blown and as soon as I put the new fuse it blows up again. Do you think it is the bushings that have created the issue.. I just want to get an opinion before I open it up and put new ones on?
The sensitivity is absolutely the "bushings". Me guessing now... I would wager that when it was garaged, the horn did the continuous blast failure like others have experienced and it cooked the relay and the short is causing the fuse failure. You could pull the relay and test it to make sure.
The relay is located at the fuse panel in driver's footwell. You can test before replace to make sure. If it fails, it has to be replaced, should cost around $6
Thanks for the great video. I've owned lots of Boxster's and never run across this problem before. I did the repair today but ran into 1 little problem. When I put everything back together and reconnected the battery the horn was blowing constantly. I'm going to try again tomorrow. Do you think I tightened the 15mm bolts too much?
Well did you tighten too much? 99' here and this is the second time this has failed, had a dealer fix it 10 years ago and have had the horns unplugged for about half a year now lol. Just ordered amazon o-rings, gunna do it this week.
The code will only appear if you turn the key when the airbag is disconnected and the battery is still connected. In this video, the airbag is left connected and the battery is disconnected... so no airbag light.
SkylersRants Durametic, dealer or independent shop, or you can try disconnecting the battery and let is sit for 30 minutes, which I am fairly certain will not work. report back if it does.
Thank you, for taking time to make this video. I haven't experienced a horn problem with my 2001 but now I'll know what to do when and if. I've had mine for 11 years and I'm about to spend a bunch of money on the car so I intend to keep it for a long time. I have a question about your Boxster. I've been trying to find out the purpose for a particular accessory location (knock out) on the dash. Your car has "something" (green light with red button?) to the left of the headlight switch? I've been trying to figure out what accessories were available for this type of knock out for the passenger's side especially. Any information you or anyone else has would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, again! Jim
Hi jim, those lights are for an alarm system.. I've taken a look at parts diagrams for the 986 and all I see is that area shows only the cover. I don't see any switch options that go there.. www.sunsetporscheparts.com/auto-parts/1997/porsche/boxster/base-trim/2-5l-h6-gas-engine/electrical-cat/instruments-and-gauges-scat
Thank you, for the quick reply. I've talked to the Service Manager at my local Porsche dealer and sent photos of my dash along with a screen shot from your video, which shows the green light/red button. They are using their resources to figure out what might be available. The reason for my request is that I'm planning to install a Sony, IR controlled voice interface (RM-X7BT) to the factory CDR 220 radio AUX input. I intend to attach the small Sony transmitter/ touch control to the removable cover that snaps over the windshield roof/ convertible top release. The Sony receiver must be installed "line of sight". I'm hoping to use the passenger's side oval knock out to mount the receiver. If I can find the right kind of dark red plastic I'm planning to make an oval piece to replace the knockout. With a little luck, the installation will look "clean". I hate having a bunch of stuff stuck to the dash and windshield. My wife has already stuck a cell phone holder and dash cam on the inside of the windshield. I'd upgrade the radio with all of these functions available but they are all too "gaudy", for this car. Jim
I did the ‘repair’ and it went swimmingly well! Took about 15 minutes - surprised even me! Buuuuut, the horn is still SUPER sensitive! Anybody have any suggestions please?!?!?
The porchshe caynne is the safest and best car in the world it has air bags in the seat and curtain air bags and it's a SUV and a sport car that's a fuck load of work isn't it
You can buy the O-rings needed to make the repair here: #31 O-Rings amzn.to/2qYdBgW
buyer beware, its only one O ring for $6
Thanks for catching that, those are the wrong O-rings, they are huge, .. I've updated the link amzn.to/2qYdBgW
Yea, I blew a O ring one time after a night of Taco Bell and Micheloeb ultra.
Great video! Which size would the o-rings be in the UK? Thanks!
@@DanMumford Hi Dan did you find the correct size for the uk o ring in the end ?
Many many thanks for your video! After I obtained the o-rings and wrench, I completed the task in about 30mins. Girl Power! The dealer quote was $790 to replace the whole bracket.
Thanks for posting this easy repair. I'm not getting dirty looks from other drivers for "honking" at them every time I go over a bump anymore.
Thanks for the run through. Took maybe 15 minutes and now drivers will no longer think I'm being an impatient a--ole!
nice. "Why is this honking? He just pulled up to the light... jerk"
Spot on! This was the easiest (and cheapest) Boxster repairs so far. Many thanks!
Great video. It took me 30 minutes and saved me $300 quoted from a Porsche mechanic. btw, it is the same fix on a Carrera 996. You saved me $300! Thank you!
On the spot, thank you… Fixed my Boxster ’97 today. After reading the comment about adjusting the bolts too much and not being able to fix this problem, I adjusted the 19mm bolts with my fingers. I disconnected the battery and the work took me a bit more than one hour. Great video.
My '99 Carrera horn has been very sensitive lately, but when it went off at 5:30 this morning, and again at 7:30, I figured I needed to do something. Went online, found your video, ran to Home Depot, bought a socket set, torx set (like yours), and the #231 O-rings (in the plumbing section). Came home and fixed the horn in about 20 mins. Thanks so much for the video!
Exactly, EXACTLY, what I was looking for. Thanks for taking the time to post this!
2 years and it still works fine???
yes, the O-rings should last for the life of the car.
I just did this job today, took it back apart to add my 2 remaining washers on the back of the plate at the bottom (doubled them up at the back). I really do think the correct way to do it is 1 on each at the front and 2 on each at the back. I've owned my Boxster for about 12 years now, this is the second time I've had this problem, first time I've fixed it myself. Going to order more washers and eventually take it back apart but I do think the 10 washers on it now will work. She's my daily driver at the moment so I'll find out very fast ;).
Just did this fix on a 1999 carrera coupe and it was very easy. Went to home depot and got the package of 10 #231 O-rings in the plumbing department and then put 2 of them on the front and back of all four corners. Don't forget to get some loctite blue on the air bag screws when reassembling. Worked like a charm. Thanks!
Many thanks for this helpful video. I have just repaired my horn bracket using O rings bought here in France from my local DIY store in the plumbing section ("Joint torique n°8"). The problem on mine was the lower left rubber joint of the metal plate had sheared and part of it remained on the shaft of the bolt when I removed it. My solution was to put a n°8 and then a n°9 (slightly larger) on the bolt, put the bolt in the hole on the metal plate, then a n°9 on the back of the plate followed by a n°8. I put n°8 on the front and back of the other 3 bolts as in the video. So far all is working fine, time will tell if it holds out. Thanks once again as I was envisaging big bills at a garage and in the end it cost me 5 euros. A new plate is not that expensive, so if the O rings don't hold long term then I'll change the whole thing.
Just did the fix. I didn't bother with the battery, just pulled the 25 amp B3 fuse and didn't unplug any wires at all. Took about 15 minutes. Thanks for the tip on the #31 O-rings, fit like a glove.
THANKS! This video is a gem! The shop I had my Boxster at wanted $400 just to change out the bracket with a new one for this fix. Thanks to you I now have a working horn and only spent $17 (#31 o-rings, torx set from harbor freight, and box of new 25 amp fuses). Awesome!
nice!
Hi ! it's Denis from Nice in the south of France. I had the same problem on my 996 Carrera. So when i saw your video, i've decided to fix it myself. I ordered the rings on Amazone and I made the repair this morning by following your video and now it's ok ! I can now brake hard without alerting the poulation around ! :-))
Thanks for your help.
Denis.
You're welcome! Happy to help!
Thanks! Just did this today to my 1999 986, and it worked like a charm!
Thanks for the fix! Works great and saved money.
Couldn't find the o-ring at Home Depot but the general measurement of the o-ring mentioned is 9/16" OD x 5/16" ID x 1/8" wall. Took those numbers to HD and found the matching dimensions.
Great video !!! Saved me over $300.00. The instruction is right on, the T30 screws where a pain to unscrew because of the angle, but once unscrewed the airbag pops right off. Other then that no problems. Thank you again for making the video and please keep them coming.
TheMorales003 Thanks!
Thank you! I did this today and would never have known what to do if it wasn’t for your incredible vid. HUGELY appreciated! 👍
Brilliant, a couple of added tips. In europe I used number 8 o rings approx 14/8 mm. I used a dab of contact adhesive to hold the rings in place.
Another UA-cam victory.
Can you show me which ones you ordered? need also (i am in germany)
OMG!!! GREAT and easy repair. I happen to have the o-rings in my garage and it took less than 20 minutes to do the job.
If you wanna make sure the o-rings stay in place when putting back the plate, I used my heat gun to give them a little stick.
Cost to me basically ZERO vs the $300 some people here have mentioned.
is this steering wheel identical to that in the 993?
Great video! used the #31oring from Lowes plumbing area. make sure you have your radio code, you will need it when you re-connect the battery. took 20 minutes to complete.
Great video! A really easy fix to a really annoying problem. I did not disconnect the wire from the bracket and had no problem putting the o-rings in place
my car is a 2000 model lancer, but since i cant find some bushing to replace the old ones. i tried to loosen up the screws and tightened them back.. and it works! thanks you!
dude thank you!!!!!!! my horn wasn't working and now it does, i seriously appreciate it!!!!!
good news!
Worked for me too. Buy the O rings from Home Depot O ring # 231 you get 10 of em. I didn't listen to the instructions the first time and only put the front ones on. Hooked everything back up and woke my neighbor who works nights, he is very big and was very angry. Had a hard time finding a long enough # 30 Torx but Harbor Freight had the folding wrench like in the video for $7. I drove around for 6 months without a horn very frustrating but now when someone is texting at a stop light in front of me they will know when it turns green.
Thanks
Thank You for your video, it worked perfectly!
We were trailering my 2000 Porsche Boxter to California, and every time I hit the brakes on my truck the Porsche would honk the horn, and every time I would turn to see who is honking at me, funny!!
Thank you very much for this video, my 1998 Boxster was experiencing the exact same symptoms. I followed your instructions and all is well. Note to other readers: the Torx screws on mine were extremely difficult to break loose, slip a box wrench over the "L" shaped Torx wrench to gain leverage.
Thanks again.
Yes, those torx can be tough! happy to help!
My horn kept going off to the point where I had to get the 25 amp fuse out of slot B3. I found your video and it worked like a charm in no time. I will link your video to my UA-cam channel in my next Vlog taking about the horn. Thanks!
I did it! As someone who is not particularly handy I had a go and it is sorted! Thanks for this video
Other then the torx screws being very hard to remove this video was spot on and worked great.
Thanks, you just saved me $800 (that was the quote I got from a mechanic), it's an easy job anyone can do it!
wow. happy to hear about the savings!
I just bought the o-rings from the amazon link. I hope you enjoy the huge profits! It cost me $3.12 so I'm assuming you're a millionaire now.
If you're using the Harbor Freight metric O-ring set that comes in a 397 piece kit, I had luck with #11/P8, 7.8 id and 11.6 od. I used 2 on the back of the bushing and one on the front, works great! I didn't read through all the comments, so sorry if this has been mentioned. 1998 Boxster w/ 4 spoke steering wheel.
Thanks for making this video...I followed it with the exact same results! Even went to Home Depot and bought the o-rings and thanks for including the size of the o-rings
Elliott Morales excellent, you're welcome
THANK YOU!!! 5 minutes to watch the video + $3 at Home Depot + 10 minutes to perform the repair = Like new. I can drive my car again without fear of inadvertently honking at strangers every time I hit the brakes.
Ran into this issue and at first was OK with it as if I had to hit the brakes very hard, there was a reason to honk the horn. Thought this should be an option on all cars.
But after a while, especially as I am a hard braker anyway, I decided to look into the repair. The business card trick worked beautifully until I was able to make the repair. Thanks for the vid.
Thank you so much! It worked perfectly. The only challenge was unscrewing the T30 screws.😀
I could not for the life of me get that horn switch to unfasten. Thank you for the video, very helpful!
THANK YOU!! My mechanic was going to charge me 2 hours labor. I have a 1997 993 Turbo worked on it last night took me 20 minutes that's after disconnecting my battery for 24 hours ago. I bought the #31 from amazon for $2.49
sweet..
Yes, Yes....thank you. The horn just started going off when braking or going down hill! This fixed it. Took me a bit longer because the torx screw was a bugger to deal with. And I didn't listen carefully to you saying to place the o-rings front "and" back. The video only showed you putting them on the front. So guess what, I only put them on the front and as soon as I hooked up the battery the horn started blaring. Then I unhooked the battery and forgot to wait another 1/2 hour on the airbag....but it didn't deploy, so that was good. Also, the airbag came unplugged when I laid it down on the steering wheel. I moved and it fell off into the seat coming unplugged. Guess it was ok to just plug it back in.....that's what I did. Anyway, now the horn works like it is supposed to!
Thank you so much for this video! I followed it exactly and now my horn works only when I want it to!
I just bought my 1997 Porsche Boxster and realized that the horn did not work so I got on youtube and came upon your entry so I watched it and then I looked at my fuse box and it did not have a fuse for the horn I put one in and the horn went off, then I fixed my horn thanks to you! I was confused and did not buy enough gaskets, I did not see you put them on both sides, you mentioned both sides my fault. Thanks looking forward to your other helpfull video's!!
Glad to hear you got the horn fixed!
Thanks for the video......I installed the o-rings on both sides of the bracket (front and back)... and the "hypersensitive horn" is fixed...15-20 minutes and done.....I did not have to disconnect anything....just moved the airbag and sat it on top of the steering column..thanks again
Thanks so much! Worked perfectly…saved me $300 of dealer charges.
Thank you for this great video! I added the o-rings last week and it worked like a charm.
You're welcome, and a charm it is! I wish every Porsche repair was as cheap as this one!
Well done, thanks for the effort. Saved me a lot of time and aggravation.
Thank you so much. Home Depot has the O-rings as #231 in their plumbing section. Lowes has #31 indicated in small type on a tag above their plumbing selection. the rings are 5/16 ID, 9/16 OD, and 1/8" thickness.
Nice video, very helpful, thanks! But note that on older 996's (mine is a '99) the bolts are 17mm, not 19mm. Other than that, everything else seems the same.
I just wanted to thank you for such a great video. I had the same issue with my 99 986 and your concise instructions were perfect with the amount of detail and tools needed. Home Depot did not have #31 O-rings, but Lowes did. Everything works great now and all for less than $3 and 20 minutes effort. Thanks again!!
I'm happy to hear that!
Great video! Thanks! You should mention that you will need a long skinny T-30. A T-30 socket or a short T-30 bit in a screw driver socket will not fit through the back of the steering wheel. Also, there is no need to disconnect the horn leads if you have disconnected the battery. It's better to leave old wires alone or you may have another project on your hands.
Previous owner pulled the fuse. Was quoted a ridiculous amount from the dealer. I went to execute this money saving tip and the damn screw heads are stripped. I bet dealer did that shit on purpose.
NOW WHAT? Any suggestions?
Thank you for posting this solution. Very easy fix. Home Depot had everything I needed just as you recommended.
Nice.
I had the horn problem...I had to put the o rings on the front AND on the back side of the bracket...just on the front didn't fix it...but the bushings were really worn... works like new again for $2.49 and 15 minutes of work!
Thanks for the guidance. I just completed the repair and the horn works perfectly.
Right on.
I can't believe I waited so long to do this, it is super easy and it works! ANYONE can do this fix! If you are nervous about the airbag, don't be, make sure you disconnect the battery 1 hour before, wear gloves, and keep I foot on the ground for triple the safety. even if you don't have the tools, this fix will cost you maybe $10.00 and a 1/2 hour of your time.
Going to try this! Read about it on a forum, looks easy!!!
Thank you for sharing. I had a same problem with my 1999 Baxter. I used your instruction. using 8, 231 O-rings. The horn now is working properly.
Sweetness!
Would you fix this exactly the same for a 97 Carrera S?
Absolutely fantastic video. I just did it and it works perfectly. Thank you so much for this. MUCH appreciated!
Excellent video.
Would you be kind enough to post a video on how to remove center console and change a faulty handbrake switch. It prevents roof mechanism from working and seems to be a common problem.
Thanks.
Saeed Nejatali Thx, When the need arises I will make the video.
Thank you so much for posting this !! I used the 'business card' fix - for now. Thank you!!
I am having this issue right now....I was hoping someone posted about it...THANK YOU!!!
I think I'll go with the business card fix and hope it works. Thanks!
Torx screws in the back are stripped! 😤 now what? Previous owner git a quote at dealer. Probably stripped them on purpose! HELP? Sugestions?
don't do this without thinking about all the implications and consequences… thinking out load here... I might take a tool like a Dremel and fully grind off the head of the screw? just so I could get it apart, and deal with what comes after. how much did they quote?
what rims are those please
Thank you for this helpful video! I have a 993 96 and was wondering if this can be done without disconnecting the battery? Having to do the readiness codes is really painful.
You may not need to disconnect battery, it is disconnected for two reasons, 1. if you disconnect the airbag electrical connector you will not get a code (you don't actually need to disconnect the airbag electrical connector to do this repair), and 2. to lessen the chance of the airbag blowing up.
Same problem with my 99 Boxster with 105K miles. Bought the O rings at HD for $2.27 + tax and borrowed the T30 Torx which I had never previously heard of. Had the 19mm socket and ratchet. Disconnect the negative wire from the battery. Next, It's a little tricky loosening the air bag screws but be patient while connecting the T30 torx to the two screws. You'll feel it click into place then you can turn it loose. Be careful not to lose these screws when you pull bag out. They just sit in place loosely and can be easily put back in if they fall out. The removing of the bracket is very easy with the 4 bolts loosened with the 19mm socket. I did not find in necessary to disconnect any wiring. I actually was able to set the air bag on top of the steering wheel while doing the repair which freed up both of my hands. The O rings just need to be pressed on both sides of the bracket and it's not an exact science. Just press them on as best you can and the bolt going through the bracket will pretty much keep them in place. Once the eight O rings are on, make sure that the two screws that attach the air bag are seated in place and slide the air bag back into place over the two screws. You'll be able to eye them up while sliding the air bag into place. Tighten the screws until the air bag is tight in the steering wheel. Tighten the four bolts in the mounting bracket until just snug. NOT too tight. Reconnect negative cable and fire the Boxster back up. The fix works like a charm. Took the car out for a test drive and I can now brake hard and steer hard into corners without the horn going off. I do have to press down harder to honk the horn but that is fine. A sensitive horn is a pain in the ass! Thanks for the video! This was a real money and time saver! Here in Florida, I was sweating my ass off and cursing some but all in all it was a very easy fix. Probably 30 minutes or so. I think my dealer wanted about $500 to replace the bracket. My total out of pocket was $2.42
thanks!
I have a '95 911 (993). Socket size is 17 mm, Torx screwdriver is #T27. O-ring size is right on, but put it behind the grommet not on the front, as he shows in the video. If you place it in the front or on both sides, the airbag assembly does not seat completely.
thanks for the tool size info for the 993! On the 986/996 if you don't put an o-ring on the front it can be too sensitive. Is horn sensetivity good on your 993 with just on the back side?
No issues.
Sitting in the driver's seat, I'm suggesting you put it"behind" (towards the front of the car as the bracket is mounted). The honking occurs because as you brake, the heavy airbag "lurches" forward, honking the horn. The rubber gasket, which used to support the airbag is too weak to keep it in place and it contacts the adjacent metal. I originally bought a new bracket. There are at least two different types and the part that was shipped from Pelican Parts was not correct. I elected to try a "quick fix" with the "O" rings and it worked. Pelican parts was great and accepted the return of the incorrect part.
works fine.
Wow! I learned a lot from you today.THANK YOU!!
Great Video - I'm going to do this soon. Last time I disconnected the battery I had to find my radio code to get it working again. Does that happen with this procedure
+powerwiseinkpump You will need your radio code.
+ZipZapDIY - This worked well. Thanks for the video
Big thanks, my 996 is honking like hell and neigbors are calling 😅Im just 2 days from home👍
ha!
How deep in are the bolts? I'm not connecting with them?
What is hold the bracket to the wheel?
The part with the T30 Torx. Screws ain't turning.
They can be stubborn. It may make take some effort to break them loose
Do you have to do front and back?
you need to put O-rings on the front and back side.
Great video and $$$ saver! Dealer wants $410.00 to replace bracket, on my '96 C4S, just for this fix !!! Before I attempt this tho, quick question: - At about 4:00 min into the vid, after you've added the O rings, and BEFORE replacing the 9mm screws/bolts, you mention "sliding the Torx screws that hold the airbag in" - they appear to be behind/under the mounting bracket... didn't see you removing those - can you tell me what size Torx THOSE are- T-30 as well ?? Thanks much !
$410, LOL... 99% cost savings with the 0-rings! The only torx are the ones removed at 2:10. You're welcome, happy to help.
Sorry -meant before the 19 mm bolts, not 9mm!
Thank you!!! This fix is better and will last longer than buying a new Porsche horn bracket. $2.50 is the total cost. The airbag screws were tighter than expected as they have some thread locker, but everything else is a breeze.
hello,
thank you so much for the video!
I own a porsche boxster in France, and I asked a question, what is the size of the O-rings do you use? in millimeter?
thank you in advance for your reply!
Gabriel mounier #31 O-Rings... 9/16" x 5/16" x 1/8" Inside Diameter: 5/16 in = 7.9 mm, Outside Diameter: 9/16 in = 1.4 cm, Wall Thickness: .125 in = 3.175 mm
Thanks for this vid. I am going to attempt this soon on my 99 996. So, by disconnecting the battery for 30+ minutes we are in no risk of accidentally deploying the airbag? Just want to make sure. Thanks again.
Is this fix compatible with a 99 Carrera???
Thanks
cbuechner1 As far as I know, it should be 100% identical on the 996
i think i have the same issue on my 99 boxter. The horn became so sensitive that a slight touch would make it go off. Then I garaged the car for 20 days and when I came back it completely stopped working. The fuse was blown and as soon as I put the new fuse it blows up again. Do you think it is the bushings that have created the issue.. I just want to get an opinion before I open it up and put new ones on?
The sensitivity is absolutely the "bushings". Me guessing now... I would wager that when it was garaged, the horn did the continuous blast failure like others have experienced and it cooked the relay and the short is causing the fuse failure. You could pull the relay and test it to make sure.
OK thanks.. so if the relay is burnt would mean I will have to buy it. And does it go in the steering wheel?
The relay is located at the fuse panel in driver's footwell. You can test before replace to make sure. If it fails, it has to be replaced, should cost around $6
OK yes I see there. Thanks again
Thanks for the great video. I've owned lots of Boxster's and never run across this problem before. I did the repair today but ran into 1 little problem. When I put everything back together and reconnected the battery the horn was blowing constantly. I'm going to try again tomorrow. Do you think I tightened the 15mm bolts too much?
Well did you tighten too much? 99' here and this is the second time this has failed, had a dealer fix it 10 years ago and have had the horns unplugged for about half a year now lol. Just ordered amazon o-rings, gunna do it this week.
Amazing….got it fixed 1998 Box👍
but one thing when disconnecting air bag a air bag code appears which needs resetting be prepared to encounter that.
The code will only appear if you turn the key when the airbag is disconnected and the battery is still connected. In this video, the airbag is left connected and the battery is disconnected... so no airbag light.
ZipZapDIY Oops, should have read that first. How do you reset the airbag light?
SkylersRants Durametic, dealer or independent shop, or you can try disconnecting the battery and let is sit for 30 minutes, which I am fairly certain will not work. report back if it does.
Thanks, worked well...wish I would have UA-cam it before I bought the replacement part, the o ring fix was a lot cheaper
you're welcome. How nice would it be if every repair was this cheap...
Thank you, for taking time to make this video. I haven't experienced a horn problem with my 2001 but now I'll know what to do when and if. I've had mine for 11 years and I'm about to spend a bunch of money on the car so I intend to keep it for a long time.
I have a question about your Boxster. I've been trying to find out the purpose for a particular accessory location (knock out) on the dash. Your car has "something" (green light with red button?) to the left of the headlight switch? I've been trying to figure out what accessories were available for this type of knock out for the passenger's side especially.
Any information you or anyone else has would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, again!
Jim
Hi jim,
those lights are for an alarm system.. I've taken a look at parts diagrams for the 986 and all I see is that area shows only the cover. I don't see any switch options that go there.. www.sunsetporscheparts.com/auto-parts/1997/porsche/boxster/base-trim/2-5l-h6-gas-engine/electrical-cat/instruments-and-gauges-scat
Thank you, for the quick reply.
I've talked to the Service Manager at my local Porsche dealer and sent photos of my dash along with a screen shot from your video, which shows the green light/red button. They are using their resources to figure out what might be available.
The reason for my request is that I'm planning to install a Sony, IR controlled voice interface (RM-X7BT) to the factory CDR 220 radio AUX input. I intend to attach the small Sony transmitter/ touch control to the removable cover that snaps over the windshield roof/ convertible top release. The Sony receiver must be installed "line of sight". I'm hoping to use the passenger's side oval knock out to mount the receiver. If I can find the right kind of dark red plastic I'm planning to make an oval piece to replace the knockout. With a little luck, the installation will look "clean". I hate having a bunch of stuff stuck to the dash and windshield.
My wife has already stuck a cell phone holder and dash cam on the inside of the windshield. I'd upgrade the radio with all of these functions available but they are all too "gaudy", for this car.
Jim
Good video hope it sorts my horn fault.
o-ring by 31mm ???
thanks!
Edoardo Bramato #31 O-rings, not 31mm.
I did the ‘repair’ and it went swimmingly well! Took about 15 minutes - surprised even me! Buuuuut, the horn is still SUPER sensitive! Anybody have any suggestions please?!?!?
My horn now works Thanks a bunch
Many thanks for posting this.
James Webster You're welcome.
Very helpful thanks
Sounds like you H tone horn is bad, Mine had to be replaced....the only way is I had to remove the bumper. Less than $25 for the OEM horn from Ebay.
card trick didn't work, which fuse is for the horn. (its not online or in owners man
located in fuse box in drivers footwell, Row B Position 3
Great video. Saved me a bunch of time.
Can't wait to fix mine on my 99
Thanks dude!
Nice video. Well done.
Thank you.
Nice video, thanks for the effort. Straight forward repair. True Value, Ace Hardware or Home Depot, cost for #4 "O" rings app. $3.
The porchshe caynne is the safest and best car in the world it has air bags in the seat and curtain air bags and it's a SUV and a sport car that's a fuck load of work isn't it
Posted this video and more details on my website: zipzapdiy.com/porsche-horn-honks-repair/
abeilles et ruches
Ahaha thats so funny, a porsche that honk when you brake ahahah