Fixed airbag /horn problem for 20 cents!

[kevakasper]

I just fixed the horn on my new to me 02. It has the dreaded air bag cover shrinking and causing the horn contact in between the cover and air bag to stay closed. I wasn't going to replace the airbag, I knew there should be an easy fix. I disassembled the cover being very carful with the air bag. Inside the cover is a flat " sandwich style pressure switch. The air bag cover as it ages shrinks and causes too much pressure on the switch. There is a void in the center of the contact about 2-3 inches in diameter. I cut 2 pieces of foam ( like upholstery foam ) and sanwiched them between the cover and airbag. It put just enough pressure on the cover to release the switch. I tested with my ohm meter and it worked like a charm. Total cost .20 cents!
Even if the airbag deploys it is going to send foam at me, much softer than the hard vinyl switch inside!

 

[fiero67]

Thanks for this info... That is my problem too. Ive been searching for alternate horn locations to get my 2000 Alero through inspection. But with your info ... Ill give that a try. I removed the airbag as well and plugged it back in and it got stuck on and all i did was tap the "plate" and it stopped.... so Im assuming that what you did will fix it! thanks.. can you give me an exact placement of the foam...please. i appreciate it!