Horn Relay

This procedure covers the replacement of the horn relay in the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) located in the engine compartment of a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK with the 3.6L V6 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Horn relay × 1 — Use OEM specification or verify relay type from TIPM cover diagram

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Ensure front wheels are pointed straight ahead

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Locate the battery in the engine compartment. Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (-) battery terminal bolt. Remove the cable from the terminal and position it away from the battery post to prevent accidental contact.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Locate the TIPM
   The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is located on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near the battery. It is a black rectangular module with a removable cover.
3. 3

   Remove TIPM cover
   Release the cover retaining tabs on both sides of the TIPM cover using a flathead screwdriver or trim tool. Carefully lift the cover upward and away from the module. Note the relay and fuse diagram printed on the inside of the cover for reference.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Identify horn relay location
   Using the diagram on the TIPM cover, locate the horn relay. On 2012-2018 JK Wranglers, the horn relay is typically located in the upper portion of the relay array. The relay will be labeled on the TIPM body or shown on the cover diagram. Verify the relay number matches your vehicle's specifications.
5. 5

   Remove horn relay
   Firmly grasp the horn relay by its sides and pull straight upward with steady, even pressure. The relay should release from its socket. Avoid rocking or twisting the relay during removal to prevent damage to the socket terminals. Inspect the socket for corrosion or damage.
6. 6

   Install new horn relay
   Verify the new relay matches the configuration of the old relay (pin count and arrangement). Align the relay pins with the TIPM socket, ensuring correct orientation. Press the relay firmly into the socket until it seats fully and is flush with adjacent relays. The relay should click into place.
7. 7

   Reinstall TIPM cover
   Position the TIPM cover over the module, ensuring it is properly aligned. Press down on the cover until the retaining tabs on both sides click into place. Verify the cover is fully seated and secure.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect battery negative terminal
   Position the negative battery cable onto the negative battery post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench and 10mm socket. Ensure the connection is clean and secure.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify TIPM cover is fully secured with all retaining tabs engaged
2. Ensure no tools or parts are left in the engine compartment
3. Close hood securely

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify no warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster beyond normal startup indicators
• Press the horn button on the steering wheel and verify the horn sounds properly
• Test horn operation multiple times to confirm consistent function
• If horn does not operate, verify relay is fully seated and check horn fuse in TIPM
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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