12 reasons car turn signals don't work or flash crazy fast

If your turn signals are not coming on or flashing too quickly on your car, there are several potential reasons for this issue. Here's a comprehensive list of possible causes:

number one
Burned-Out Bulbs: A common reason for turn signals not working is one or more burned-out bulbs. Check all turn signal bulbs (front and rear) to ensure they are in good working condition.
Dimmer or Non-Compatible Bulbs: Using bulbs that are not the correct wattage or type for your vehicle can cause issues. Ensure you are using the correct bulbs recommended for your car.
Make sure the new bulbs are working. Use the voltmeter to test.
#2
Blown Fuse: A blown fuse in the turn signal circuit can prevent the signals from functioning. Check the fuse related to the turn signals and replace it if necessary.

#3
Faulty Flasher Relay: The flasher relay regulates the flash rate of the turn signals. A faulty flasher relay can cause issues like rapid flashing or no flashing at all. Replace the flasher relay if it's malfunctioning.

#4
Corroded or Loose Wiring Connections: Corroded or loose wiring connections in the turn signal circuit can disrupt the electrical flow.
Inspect the wiring and connections for damage or corrosion, and repair or clean them as needed.

#5
Bad Turn Signal Switch: The turn signal switch on the steering column can fail over time, leading to issues with the signals not working correctly.
If other components are in good condition, consider checking or replacing the turn signal switch.

Number six
Faulty Hazard Warning Switch: In some vehicles, the turn signals are integrated with the hazard warning switch. A malfunctioning hazard warning switch can affect the turn signals.

Faulty Multi-Function Switch: Some cars have a multi-function switch that combines the functions of turn signals, headlights, and more. If this switch is defective, it can impact the operation of the turn signals.

#7
grounding Issues: Poor grounding in the turn signal circuit can result in erratic behavior. Check the ground connections for corrosion or looseness.

#8
Battery or Charging System Problems: Low battery voltage or alternator issues can affect the electrical system, including the turn signals.
Make sure your battery is in good condition, and check the charging system if necessary.

#9
Electronic Control Module (ECM) Issues: In modern vehicles, the ECM can influence turn signal operation. If you've ruled out other causes, consider having the ECM checked for faults.
Software or Control Module Updates: In some newer vehicles, software updates or control module reprogramming may be necessary to address turn signal issues.

Number 10
Environmental Factors: Extreme cold or moisture can affect electrical connections and cause intermittent issues with turn signals.

Number 11
Aftermarket Modifications: If your vehicle has aftermarket electrical modifications or accessories, they may interfere with the turn signal system.
Recent electrical work on your car brake lights towing hitch et cetera

Number 12
Wiring Harness Damage: Damage to the wiring harness, such as from accidents or rodents, can disrupt the electrical flow.

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Robb Moffett
Robb's Homemade life

[WillowsGarden]

Hi Robb! Good information to know. I can pretty much take care of the basics on my car, bulbs, oil change, brakes and things that are basic repair. I hope you have a blessed night!

[barrykelly]

I am a HUGE fan of using dielectric grease in sockets and plugs when replacing electrical components. It repells moisture, prevents corrosion and just makes removal in the future much easier.
Love the video. Good information

[bctruck]

Once, I replaced all the old brittle wiring in my trailer. Did a nice neat job with wire insulation and zip ties. Well, none of the lights would work. I assumed it was lights or sockets. I replaced all the bulbs, cleaned the sockets and put dielectric grease on them. Still no lights. After half a day of scratching my head, I found it was the brand new wiring that had a break in it somewhere. I was pissed because of all the work I put into properly installing it. Ran some new wires that I put together myself and then I had lights. So the moral of the story is, , even brand new stuff might not work.

[MrBillmedhurst]

I'm at about the same situation as yourself, going to mechanic next. But I really like your suggestion of double checking all bulbs and visible wiring. I'll do that first. Thanks for the suggestions.

[JohnJones-oymd]

2:13 - In the early 90's I rented a beater rental car on the Bahamian island of Andros that would honk the horn in unison with the flashing turn signal lights. Interesting how many unrelated components can be intertwined in an automotive electrical system.

[Daoist_Linkonem]

This video has been extremely informative, I just bought a 95 town car. It’s my first car, luckily nothing major wrong just when it’s warm for a while the turn signals stop working

[chopsddy]

When I was young, hand signals were still in use. All you needed was a little Absorbine Junior liniment and a couple of aspirins and you were good to go.

[MrDejast]

Low blinker fluid is the #1 cause of failures.

[daval]

Thank you for your video.

It's all about the blinker fluid.

Don't ask me how I know.

Keep up the great work.

[oscarblom]

Good information. I have had over forty vehicles, so lots of experience with electrical gremlins 😮. Now days, it’s off to the professionals 😊👋🐿. PS. My first vehicle was a 58 VW van😂 learned so much 😊👋🐿

[islandgal]

You missed Number/# 13. Gremlins. Dad always reminded me to check the simplest and most obvious thing first, so good you started with the bulb. Posters need thick black felt pen for us old folks who are visual learners (or is that visually impaired?) or are they only large prompt cards for yourself?

[ohillbilly]

Blinker Fluid!!!
I hope I never live long enough to have to drive a new car.

[lisam.]

Thank you for sharing this helpful information!

[TStheDeplorable]

Reason 13: The driver is in the driver's seat of a BMW.

[jchiliw]

I have a 2008 Pontiac G6.
I have owned it about 8 years.
The drivers side headlight has blown about 7 times.
Never replaced the passenger side yet.

[GayleMayton]

Nov 8th. 8pm. My right front turn signal flashes if I turn the left signal indicator on, as does my left rear signal. If I turn on the right indicator, only the back right signal works but flashes quickly. It's as though they are criss crossed. This just started happening. Any ideas

[pinnacle_moto]

I have this issue on one of my motorbikes.
Bulb is good, checked with multimeter. I'm getting current to the housing, but when you plug the bulb in it's just not working. Next step is to take the connector and wire off the side that is working and start working backwards with a known good loom to find where the issue is.

[romeparrilla]

nice video, i was wondering if i could replace my 6 volt motorcycle flasher relay with a 12 volt relay?some blogger said its ok. thank you

[BvictoryforChrist]

Maybe you can help, have an 02, all my lights work, except my headlights are always on as long as the key is turned on, idk if that is related but, my main issue is that when using my right blinker only, left works fine, when I brake it speeds up, as if my bulb is burnt out, and the rear blinker just stops working, but as soon as you let off the brake, it goes back to normal speed and the blinker works again… I’m suspecting a ground but then I also don’t think it would work at all but I’m not expert… any ideas? Thanks in advance.

[mlehner]

I have a changed my light bulb 💡 but its still flashing fast i dont know what to do😢