TROUBLESHOOTING BASIC TURN SIGNAL AND FLASHER PROBLEMS

TROUBLESHOOTING BASIC TURN SIGNAL AND FLASHER PROBLEMS
Most problems in the turn signal or flasher systems can be reduced to defective flashers or bulbs, which are easily replaced. Occasionally, problems in the turn signals are traced to the switch in the steering column, which will require professional service. F=Front, R=Rear

Problem What To Do

Turn signals light, but do not flash

Replace the flasher

No turn signals light on either side

Check the fuse. Replace if defective.
Check the flasher by substitution.
Check for open circuit, short circuit or poor ground.

Both turn signals on one side don't work

Check for bad bulbs.
Check for bad ground In both housings.

One turn signal light on one side doesn't work

Check and/or replace bulb.
Check for corrosion in socket. Clean contacts.
Check for poor ground at socket.

Turn signal flashes too fast or too slow

Check any bulb on the side flashing too fast. A heavy-duty bulb is probably installed In place of a regular bulb
Check the bulb flashing too slow. A standard bulb was probably installed in place of a heavy-duty bulb
Check for loose connections or corrosion at the bulb socket

Indicator lights don't work in either direction

Check If the turn signals are working
Check the dash indicator lights
Check the flasher by substitution

One Indicator light doesn't light

On systems with 1 dash indicator:
- See if the lights work on the same side. Often the filaments have been reversed In systems combining stoplights with taillights and turn signals
- Check the flasher by substitution On systems with 2 Indicators:
- Check the bulbs on the same side
- Check the indicator light bulb
- Check the flasher by substitution