My Tundra's Turn Signals Won't Blink

Turn signals are fairly universal. Charge from the battery routes through the ignition switch to the turn signal relays. The relays interrupt the signal in a pattern allowing the lights to blink on and off. The potential issues are limited to problems with the switch, relays or lights due to the simplistic nature of the system. Diagnosing the issue only takes a couple of minutes. Repairing the issue should take around 15 minutes for most repairs.

• 1

  Turn on the vehicle and activate the turn signals. Look at the operation of the lights on both sides of the vehicle.

• 2

  Replace the bulb if the front or rear signal on one side flashes rapidly and the corresponding light on the same side does nothing.

• 3

  Replace the fuse if neither the front or rear light comes on which you flip the switch. The fuse panel is typically located in the engine compartment or beneath the dash. Most vehicles will have separate turn signals for passenger and driver side.

• 4

  Replace the turn signal relay if the fuse is fine and the lights on one side of the vehicle do not come on at all, or only turn on without flashing. The fuse relay is a silver, cylindrical plug located beneath the dash near or on the fuse panel. Some vehicles locate the relay in the engine compartment fuse panel. The relays just pull out like fuses. You will have one designated for each side of the vehicle.

• 5

  Test the switch. Most turn signals are three-way switches operating both the signals, and a third element, such as bright lights or cruise control. Replace the switch if the third function of the signal does nothing. Take the vehicle to a professional to replace the switch.

• 6

  Trace the wiring. The wiring will be mostly protected, so look at the connections to the lights, and inspect them for rust, corrosion or damage. Trace the lines as far as you can to look for damaged wires. Replace as necessary. Take the vehicle to a professional to have the wires or plugs replaced unless you are familiar with splicing electrical wires.