Here are some potential reasons for this:
* Low battery voltage: A weak battery might not provide enough power for the horn to sound properly, leading to only a short, weak honk. This is often the most common cause. Check your battery's voltage with a multimeter.
* Faulty horn relay: The relay might be sticking, causing the short burst of sound. Replacing the relay is relatively inexpensive.
* Wiring issues: Corrosion, loose connections, or damaged wires in the horn circuit can cause intermittent problems, including the single-second honk. Inspect the wiring leading to the horn for any damage.
* Failing horn: While less likely to cause only a single honk, a failing horn could be the culprit. The short blast might be all the power it can muster.
* Body control module (BCM) issue: In some vehicles, the BCM controls the self-test routines. A problem with the BCM can manifest in unusual electrical behavior, including the horn issue. This is less likely, but possible.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Check the battery voltage: This is the first and easiest step. A low voltage indicates a charging system problem or a failing battery.
2. Inspect the horn relay: Locate the horn relay (check your owner's manual), and visually inspect it for damage. Try swapping it with another relay (if possible) to see if the problem moves.
3. Examine the horn wiring: Trace the wiring from the relay to the horn itself, looking for any corrosion, loose connections, or broken wires.
4. Test the horn directly: If you're comfortable working with car electrical systems, you can try directly applying power to the horn to see if it works. Be extremely cautious when working with car electrical systems.
If you're not comfortable performing these steps yourself, it's best to take your Intrepid to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Ignoring the problem could lead to a more serious electrical issue.
