Chrysler Repair: Chrysler 2000 Sebring Horn Problems, chrysler sebring, horn buttons

Question
We have a Chrysler Sebring 2000 Convertible with a horn problem! It all started one day when the horn came on and stayed on by itself. Dealer said it was alarm problem and replaced the trunk solenoid, but the problem continues. Kept it there for almost 4 days and they couldn't figure it out. The horn stops when the fuse is removed. But after much experimentation, it appears that the horn can be stopped by tapping on the steering wheel horn pad. The dealer says they can do a temporary fix by removing the horn pad and installing double stick foam or tape in between to increase the distance between the contacts, est. cost $100-125. Otherwise, a new horn pad comes only with a new airbag! Rippoff time: over $500 here. Does this sound like the problem to you and if so, can I remove the horn pad myself to make the fix? How is it removed without damaging it? And, doesn't his sound like a design error/recall fix that the dealer should be responsible for? They seem very aware of the problem ...

Answer
Hi Mike,
As my 'profile' states, my expertise runs out around 1996. So I don't have a 2000 Sebring steering wheel drawing to look at.  But in 1996 the horn buttons were accessed after removing the air bag module. To do that you have to begin by disconnecting the - post of the battery and waiting for a couple of minutes for capacitors to drain, etc. Then there are a couple or four Torx type screws on the rear of the steering wheel that when unscrewed allow removal of the airbag. Detach the wire from the bag. Then you should have access to the horn buttons. If your vehicle is within warranty, of course, then try to get Chrysler to pay for it. You could inquire at corporate headquarters in Detroit if there has been a recall and/or a technical service bulletin issued for this problem. Good luck on resolving this.
Roland