How do I know if I need a hazard/turn signal flasher replacement?
You may need to have your flasher replaced if:
- Your turn signal light on one or both sides is flashing irregularly, solid instead of flashing, or doesn’t turn on at all
- Your hazard lights are not working
If your lights aren’t working properly, it’s recommended that you first try to verify whether the issue is simply a burnt-out bulb or a dirty lens that may prevent the light from shining through. You can replace a headlight bulb or clean out a glass lens at home if you wish.
Your electrical circuit may also have a blown fuse. A mechanic can open up your car and replace the fuse if this is the case.
How to replace a hazard/turn signal flasher
The flasher is a relay in the electrical circuit that allows power to flow to the bulbs intermittently (this makes the light flashing instead of solid).
When you take your car in for a hazard/turn signal flasher replacement, the mechanic will:
- Raise the hood and place in hood supports
- Locate the electrical wiring and perform testing to ensure the flasher is malfunctioning
- Put new flasher relays onto a mounting bracket
- Install the relays into the circuit wiring and harness
- Put the hood back down and test the system to make sure that it works
How important is a hazard/turn signal flasher replacement?
A properly-working turn signal is essential to your safety (and the safety of others) on the road. Your car will still be able to perform and you won’t have issues with visibility, but without a working turn signal, lane changes become dangerous.
Additionally, not having a correct turn signal puts you in violation of local and state law. To avoid potential collisions and penalty fees from law enforcement, you’ll want to get your malfunctioning hazard and turn signal flasher inspected as soon as your schedule allows.
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