Turn signal problems

Without being able to recreate the problem, it's not going to get fixed unless you are very lucky, unless it is a simple problem. It may be that the dealer will replace the unit and all will be good. If not, focus on finding a set of circumstances that increase the likelihood of failure.

Tom

 

Hi Paul,

Your suggestion about where to start the troubleshooting is good. Next time this happens, try moving the turn signal switch lever slightly down (i.e., slightly toward the "left" position), and see if the rapid blinking problem stops. If you can control the problem by moving the lever, that will prove the problem is within the turn signal switch.

Then you will have confidence authorizing your dealer's service dept to replace that part (I'm assuming you have to pay the bill.)

BTW, the turn signal flasher relay is located within the instrument panel junction block assembly.

 

>>> the turn signal flasher relay is located within the instrument panel junction block assembly.

First thing I would check, cheap enough to replace this yourself and see if the problem is solved.
Nissan's are known for stalk switch problems, haven't heard any complaints about the Toyota's.
Have you checked all your lights to see if they all work? Many cars will have a "fast" flasher if one of the other turn signal bulbs is out. (VW's are good for this.)
Second step after replacement of the flasher relay (if it doesn't solve the problem) would be to check all your light connections, while they are disconnected apply a small amount of Di electric grease to them.
If there is still no luck in fixing this problem yourself, a trip to the dealer maybe in order.
If you're so inclined you could remove the stalk switch and either have it tested or buy a new one and install that. It's no going to be cheap and taking the steering wheel off can be a real pain in the nice person. Don't forget about the air bag!

 

I would concur that it is most likely the Flasher Relay, I have had these go on me before in previous cars. But my symptoms were that the signal wouldn't even flash just light up and stay on.

 

My prius has a similar problem where the left hand turn signal stays on. I have checked the flasher relay and there was no problem. I was told that when the windows are open and the airconditioner is going it creates a lot of humidity. And that this is what is causing the problem. Usually it dries by itself but I need it to dry quicker.

Apparently the humidity collects in the steering column and I was wondering if anyone knows anything about it.

 

Today I experienced same problem. Right turn signal would rapidly blink for about a second while driving. It happened while driving about five times while running errands to three different places. Has never happened before. Was not raining while driving. Had rained off and on thru the day and while inside doing errands. Did not drive thru any puddles or anything out of ordinary. Prius 2006, almost 74k. Anybody else experience or resolve. Will ck turn signals to see if bulb is out but don't think that is it.

 

Hello, my 2005 is doing the same damn thing now. Can anyone other than Paul comment on their fix for the issue? Thanks

 

I ended up fixing this by replacing the turn signal switch. Relatively easy DIY but you do have to remove the steering wheel. Took me about 1.5 hr taking it very slowly and being careful.

 

Hi Paul,

I have the exact same problem, except the frequency has been increasing, and now my right turn signal is flickering like mad almost all the time. My question to you is whether you got the multi-functional switch fixed under warranty. My basic warranty has expired. Also, has the problem returned, or is it now permanently fixed? Thanks!

Rob

 

Yes, I too have the same issue; my problem signal is the left. The Walnut Creek, CA, dealer is essentially trying to blow me off; they want me to pay $160 for a diagnosis which they say could take a few days until one of their techs experiences the problem for themselves. Does anyone have a suggestion as to how to get them to fix it or run it up to "TOYOTA" just based on my own description? Thanks!

 

If you are going to pay for the repair, just ask the service writer to have the turn signal switch replaced, and say that there is no need for the tech to experience the problem for himself (which means that you are taking responsibility for the correct diagnosis.)

If you are relying on warranty coverage then you will have to wait for the problem to be replicated.

 

I had the same problem on my Jetta (it is common in VWs - along with other problems). I sprayed a good cleaning solution (no residue electronics cleaner) into the switch a few times while working the switch. The problem went away and has not returned for two years. It is an inexpensive thing to try. Good luck.

JeffD

 

I have a 2006 Prius with 135,000 miles on it. I just started having this issue. It seems like the car has to be driven for around 1 hr to 1.5 hrs for the issue to appear. Basically the right turn signal will start to flash without the turn signal on. It just happens by itself. All the turn signal lights are functional. I did have to replace the HV battery a month or 2 ago. I took the car to the dealer to diagnose and the tech was not able to reproduce the problem. I still have the original 12v battery and the voltages are what they should be when I do the maintenance mode system check. Any word on if the mutli function switch resolves the issue?

 

My 2006 Prius started having this problem infrequently about 6 months ago but it has gotten progressively worse and now happens frequently. Wondering if anyone who has had the turn signal switch replaced can confirm it was a long term solution?

 

Here's an odd problem/solution: While driving today, I noticed the turn signal wasn't working. No clicks, no arrows, no lights. In the garage, I thought to check the hazard lights as well, and found the hazard switch depressed, possibly accidentally when I was fumbling with the Android Pad I use for GPS navigation (which also hides the hazard switch). Releasing the hazard switch made everything good again. It would seem that the hazard lights stop flashing under some circumstances, and whatever mechanism does that, also (of course) disables the turn signals.