Having issues with your turn signals is annoying and dangerous. Not being able to properly signal your turns or lane changes can lead to accidents or getting pulled over. Luckily, there are several common issues that cause faulty turn signals, and many can be fixed yourself. Here's how to diagnose and repair the most common turn signal problems.
Checking the Turn Signal Bulbs
The first thing to check is the bulb itself. A burnt-out bulb is the most common cause of a turn signal not working properly.
Locating the Bulbs
- Your turn signal bulbs can be found at the front and rear of your car.
- At the front, bulbs are housed in the headlight assembly.
- At the rear, they are in the taillight assembly.
- Consult your owner's manual to locate the exact position of the turn signal bulb in your car model.
Testing the Bulbs
- Have someone watch the turn signals while you switch them on.
- Check that the front and rear bulbs on the affected side are lighting up.
- Tap lightly on bulbs that are not illuminating to test if they are loose.
- If a bulb is not lighting at all, it likely needs to be replaced.
Replacing Burnt-Out Bulbs
- Purchase a replacement bulb that matches your car's make and model.
- Consult the manual to remove housing assemblies if needed to access the bulb.
- Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket and push the new bulb in.
- Re-install any housing assemblies and test that the new bulb works.
Checking the Fuse
If your blinker lights work but the blinker sound doesn't, a fuse may be blown.
Locating the Turn Signal Fuse
- The turn signal fuse will be located in the fuse box, under the steering column or in the engine bay.
- Check your owner's manual for the exact location and fuse number.
- Fuses are often labeled with text or color-coded.
Testing and Replacing the Fuse
- Use a fuse tester to check if the turn signal fuse is blown.
- If blown, remove the fuse and replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
- Retest the turn signals. If the fuse blows again, there may be an underlying electrical issue.
Testing the Flasher Relay
The flasher relay controls the blinking of the turn signals. A bad relay can cause issues like:
- Fast blinking
- Turn signals not blinking at all
- Only one side blinking
Locating the Flasher Relay
- The flasher relay is often found under the dashboard near the steering column.
- Check your manual for the specific location in your car model.
- Look for a small cylindrical or rectangular relay.
Testing the Flasher Relay
- Remove the relay and shake it, listening for a clicking sound.
- If no sound, it likely needs to be replaced.
- You can also swap the relay with an identical functioning one from something else in your car, like the hazards.
Replacing the Bad Flasher Relay
- Purchase a replacement relay that is an exact match for your vehicle.
- Swap the old relay for the new one in the socket.
- Retest turn signals to confirm the new relay is working properly.
Diagnosing Electrical Issues
If the turn signals still aren't functioning properly after bulb, fuse, and relay checks, there may be an electrical issue:
Possible Causes
- Bad wiring or disconnected wires
- Faulty turn signal switch
- Issues with turn signal control unit
Diagnosing the Issue
- Inspect wires and connectors for damage. Repair or replace damaged wiring.
- Use a multimeter to check for power at turn signal electrical components.
- Have the control unit scanned for trouble codes pointing to the issue.
Seeking Professional Help
In case of complex electrical issues:
- Seek professional diagnosis and repair from an auto electrician.
- For problems with control units, you may need to visit the dealership.
Getting the right diagnostic testing can save time and avoid unnecessary replacement of components.
Summary
Here are some final tips for getting your turn signals working again:
- Start simple - check bulbs and fuses first before electrical issues.
- When replacing components, always use exact replacement parts.
- Seek professional help for complex electrical problems.
- Refer to your owner's manual to locate components and guides.
- Re-test after each repair to isolate the faulty component.
With diligence and by methodically testing components, you can often fix faulty turn signals yourself and get your blinkers signaling properly again.