Mini F56 - signal horn not functioning

With the above-mentioned vehicle type, the signal horn may be temporarily or permanently out of action. Operating the signal horn sometimes only works on one side and not via all four possible push buttons on the steering wheel. In addition, the signal horn may have a delayed reaction and more force may be required to activate it.

Incorrect routing of the connecting cables in the steering wheel or an unfavourable material pairing on the signal horn contacts between the steering wheel and the airbag unit may be responsible for this defect. Both problems can also occur simultaneously. An error memory entry that indicates a defect is not stored.

If the above-mentioned fault is present and no defect can be found in the fuses of the signal horns or in the other peripherals, special attention should be paid to the contacts in the steering wheel and to the routing of the steering wheel cable. The airbag unit has to be dismantled in order to check the contact surfaces and the connecting cable more closely. Such work is only to be carried out by qualified, specialised staff.

If the connecting cable is not laid correctly (see illustration), this has to be rectified. If the cable is visibly damaged, it must be replaced. If contamination is detected on the contact surfaces, a steering wheel with optimised contacts must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. The problem has been identified by the vehicle manufacturer and rectified by means of a service solution using modified components.

As a fundamental principle, work on the airbag system must only be carried out by qualified specialised personnel. All legal and manufacturer-specific regulations must be observed. Once the cause of the fault has been rectified, delete the error memory and then carry out a test drive. 

This defect may also occur in other identical vehicle models.