How to Fix Your Car Blinker: A Comprehensive Guide

Driving with a malfunctioning car blinker can be both frustrating and unsafe. Identifying and fixing the issue can save you both time and money. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to diagnose and repair your car blinkers, ensuring your vehicle's safety and compliance with traffic regulations.

Bulb Replacement

If you notice that your car blinker is not functioning correctly, start by checking all the bulbs. Many times, a simple bulb replacement can resolve the issue. Here’s how to do it:

Accumulate your tools: Safety vest, flashlights, screws, and possibly a socket set. Locate the turn signal switches and fuses under the dashboard or within the engine compartment. Shut off the ignition and use a tester or multimeter to ensure there is no current running through the turn signal switches. Remove the turn signal switch covers and access the bulbs. They are typically located on the outside of the car, under the body panels. Test the bulbs with a multimeter to confirm they are faulty. Replace the faulty bulbs with new ones of the correct wattage. Reinstall the bulbs and close the covers. Test the turn signals to ensure they are working properly.

Headlight Repair

If your headlight bulbs are malfunctioning, you can apply a clear headlight repair solution to restore their shine and functionality. Here’s how:

Visit your local auto parts supply store and ask for a clear headlight repair solution. Wash and dry your headlights to ensure they are clean. Apply the repair solution to the headlight in an even coat. The solution should be applied when the headlights are cold to avoid overheating. Wait until the solution becomes tacky. This indicates that it is ready for a second coat. Apply a second coat of the solution in an even layer. Allow the solution to dry for 24 hours at room temperature. Reinstall the headlight cover to protect the repaired area.

This simple process can save you a considerable amount of money. Instead of paying for professional repair or replacement, you can save yourself at least $100.00.

A Fast Blinking Indicator

A fast blinking indicator on your car is a clear sign that a bulb has burned out. You can identify which bulb needs replacement by following these steps:

Turn on your turn signals to observe the blinking pattern. Check the bulbs on the corresponding side of the car. Replace the faulty bulb and test the turn signals.

It’s important to note that if you have recently installed LED bulbs where halogen bulbs were originally used, you might experience a double speed flashing effect. This issue can be resolved by fitting a CANBUS LED bulb instead.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If you are still unsure about the cause of the fast blinking, you can try the following advanced troubleshooting steps:

Turn off the turn signals and the ignition. Remove the key from the ignition to ensure no current is flowing through the turn signal switches. Turn on the four-way flashers and walk around the car. Observe the flashing pattern from a distance to determine if one side is flashing faster than the other. Locate the faulty bulb and replace it with a new one.

Remember, the rate at which your blinkers blink is influenced by the resistance in the system. Adjusting this resistance can change the blinking speed of your turn signals.