The Turn Signal Mystery (Turn Signal Problems)
October 8, 2023
Some problems are easy to diagnose on a vehicle; others aren't. Figuring out what's wrong with a malfunctioning turn signal sometimes fits into both categories. By the way, if your tempted to just leave your broken blinker broken, remember you can get a ticket for not using them, not to mention you are missing a great chance to communicate your intentions to other drivers on the road.
There can be lots of signals that your signals are on the blink. Does only the driver's side signal not work or the passenger's side? Do your hazard signals work? Do the lights illuminate but not flash? Can you see the indicators on the dash blinking? Do your turn signals turn off after you've finished your turn or do they stay on? These are all great clues for the technician.
Here's one common symptom to take note of. Your signal all of a sudden starts blinking much more quickly than it used to. It could be a simple as a burned out bulb. But there are many different parts that go into the turn signal system. There are fuses that blow, switches that can fail, flasher modules that go bad and light bulb sockets that can simply get corroded or dirty. When that happens, it's possible there's no contact between the bulb and the socket.
So it's understandable how tracking down the source of the problem can involve some detective work. Your service facility has equipment that can nail down the cause of your problems. They may also consult the repair manual. One thing to be aware of: if your vehicle has airbags, they may have to be disabled so they don't accidentally go off.
You can make sure your turn signals are working correctly by having them checked by a trained technician. Other drivers will thank you for showing them the courtesy of signaling your intentions. It's a courteous and considerate thing to do, not to mention it makes the road a safer place.
Auto Lab Livonia
36251 Five Miles Rd
Livonia, MI 48154
734-432-6000
http://www.autolablivonia.com
Need Service?
More articles from Auto Lab Livonia
Timing Cover Replacement
June 14, 2026
Your engine has a lot of parts that need to work in harmony in order to keep you powering down the road. Some of those parts need to be protected in order to keep things running smoothly, and one that does the job is called a timing cover. It is in the front of your engine and shields components... More
Out of Joint (CV Joint and Boot Replacement)
June 7, 2026
If you have a front-wheel-drive vehicle, it has components called CV joints which enable you to turn your wheels smoothly. The CV stands for constant velocity. In essence, its a set of gears that connect a shaft that allows power from the transmission to be sent to the wheels. When you turn the ... More
Go with the Flow (MAF Sensor Replacement)
May 31, 2026
If your vehicle has an internal combustion engine, it depends on two things to make propulsion power for you to be able to motor on down the road: fuel and air. The engine mixes the two in just the right proportion so that they can be ignited, creating a series of tiny explosions that are coordi... More