That's usually because one of your other keys sticks into the slot where
the horn contacts are under the steering wheel and shorts them.  Most cars
have the horn always live, but the VW switches with the key, so you don't
notice until you turn the key on.

At 23:39 1/11/00 , Michael S. Nichols wrote:
>Hello from Atlanta.  On three times in the last 6 months, our '81 has
>"beeped" the horn  when we insert the key into the column switch and turn
>"on" the ignition.  What gives???  Indications of future problems???  Thanks!
>
>Regards, Christina and Mike NIchols, Atlanta, Ga.  '81 Weekender

David Beierl - Providence, RI
  http://pws.prserv.net/synergy/Vanagon/
'84 Westy "Dutiful Passage"
'85 GL "Poor Relation"