Does the horn work

[Palindrome]

. . . if the key is not on?

I'm troubleshooting my non-op horn and want to know if I can do so without leaving the ignition in the on position.

[flyingjolly]

at least not in mine

[SteveJ]

No, but the luckily the finger still does.

[bills2002]

No, but the luckily the finger still does.

Way to start my weekend with a good laugh. Thanks.

[bzuva]

Hahah that was a nice one Steve!

Anyway, mine works without the key.

[Kpeters]

All BMW's I've had only work with the key on acc or above!

Good luck troubleshooting.

[Chris_B]

The horn relay solenoid receives its power from the ignition switch.

[roadhog0]

Key must me on Acc or On.

[Chris_B]

A useful clarification.

[Cameron]

. . . if the key is not on?

I'm troubleshooting my non-op horn and want to know if I can do so without leaving the ignition in the on position.

Key on for me (never tried acc.)

Someone correct me if I'm wrong - but you can unplug the coil primary side to avoid burning up the coil and points to safely keep the key in the on position during trouble shooting.

[Kpeters]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong - but you can unplug the coil primary side to avoid burning up the coil and points to safely keep the key in the on position during trouble shooting.

Should work I don't see why it shouldn't.

[SteveJ]

Now a useful tip-

Unplug the wire going from the relay to the horn(s). Plug in a simple 12v lightbulb instead. This allows you to test the horn circuitry without pissing off your spouse or neighbors.

Should be a simple system to trace- horn button, relay, +12v, horn, grounds. Half-split the circuit. See if you are getting continuity at the relay between the horn switch wire and ground. Then see if the relay closes when you press the horn button.