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Turn Signals Don't Work, But Flashers Fine...

51K views 16 replies 8 participants last post by  Lexcelsior 
#1 ·
Hey, wanted to run something quick by ya'll… weird problem I noticed this morning. While I was in the middle of a turn, I realized the signal wasn't ticking; I thought I'd forgotten to turn it on but when I hit the signal arm, I found it was already down. :blink:

Tried the turn signals either way- don't work. But the hazard lights/flashers work perfectly fine turn on/off great. I pulled into a nearby parking lot, shut off the van and restarted, but the signals still won't work.

Since the hazard lights flash fine, I'm inclined to believe that the flasher module is okay. I'm thinking potential multi-function switch failure? (Ugh.)
 
#2 ·
Check the relays in the power distribution center. I believe, without checking the wiring diagrams, the hazards have a different relay from the signal lights. Switch those two relays and see what happens. These would be the smaller relays, not the big ones. There should be several relays of that size in the box, for various functions (wipers for example), maybe even a spare relay as well.
 
#3 ·
If it had DRLs I could tell you what is the most common cause of that symptom. The DRL module is also the turn signal module, since the DRLs use the turn signal. There are some solder joints on the module that break from movement. They's on an outside corner of their board in the module and they connect the terminals, so wiggling and pulling it in and out can compromise those joints. It's an easy fix, redoing the solder joints. In fact it's harder to discover than it is to fix.
Maybe the NON DRL flasher module has the same problem. In any case my first suspect would be something about your flasher module. If you could try swapping in another one from the boneyard, that would be a start.
 
#4 ·
As it would happen, there's a relay for the hazard lights, but not for the signals. Sigh. Guess I'm going to have to go after a flasher module. Anyone know off the top of their heads where it is located? I have a sinking feeling it's mounted on the fuse panel behind the E-brake pedal.

I did get the charging system tested at AutoZone just on a whim. Sure enough the battery was down some, though still reading 14 volts... but the alternator's output seemed to be fluctuating. Which probably means it's toast. I don't see how this would kill off my signals but who knows?
 
#5 ·
Are the fuses okay? Even though the same bulb is used, they are likely fused with a different fuse ie different circuits for signals versus flashers (based on a problem I had with my Jeep). With neither side working, a fuse is likely blown, a short at the socket (one of the two contacts) could cause that.
 
#6 ·
Strange. I decided I would swap the 20A fuse for the hazard lights with another 20A fuse in the relay center. So, out in the pouring rain under an umbrella I pulled out the hazard 20A fuse, but then could hardly get another 20A out! Fused in there. (Sigh.) I looked at the hazard fuse, wiped it hard with my fingers and put it back in… voila… turn signals work again.

I'm thinking it might be a good idea to go through that power relay center and replace all of those fuses if they're getting old and rusted in place. Eek. Thanks for the help!
 
#7 ·
Sounds like time for some Fluid Film in those fuse slots.
From: http://www.fluid-film.com/applications/industrial/
Electrical Corrosion
FLUID FILM protects electrical connections and battery terminals for extended periods of time. FLUID FILM is non-conductive and can be used as a dielectric grease
There may be a product out there specific to your requirement (combat corrosion for the power center connections). Mopar likely has one.
 
#9 ·
Cleaning yes, but I don't know about arresting/protecting from corrosion. I spray Fluid Film around electrical connections and the underside of the Integrated Control/Power Distribution Center. Also use in on battery terminals.

FLUID FILM's woolwax formulation is classified as non-toxic and non-hazardous and will not burn greenery when used on cutting devices. In harsh climates or conditions, FLUID FILM will not freeze and retains a slick consistency, keeping chains and moving parts from binding or building up with dirt and debris. With a high flashpoint, exceptional water displacement and non-conductive characteristics, FLUID FILM is the perfect protectant for battery terminals and electrical connections. FLUID FILM also brings luster back to sun-baked coatings and helps prevent dirt and mud from caking on painted surfaces.
http://www.fluid-film.com/applications/agriculture/
 
#10 ·
For the rest of us, the turn signals and emergency flashers are controlled by what some call a single "relay", or the Combination Flasher Module (CFM) by Chrysler. It's mounted on the junction block fuse panel low under the left side of the dash. It's the tallest "relay" on the panel. It houses two solenoids, one for the flashers and one for the turn sigs. If you ever have to change one, don't and save yourself $60. You can pry the cover off and resolder the contacts securing the external contacts to the internal circuit board. They often crack. Sound familiar?

I can't recommend any kind of oily spray for electrical applications. Where ever it's sprayed will become a dirt and dust magnet. I do recommend using an electrical contact cleaner then if you must, apply a minimal thin coat of dielectric grease just to the contacts where it is needed.
 
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#12 ·
. You can pry the cover off and resolder the contacts securing the external contacts to the internal circuit board. They often crack. Sound familiar?
It should, it's mentioned a bit higher up this page.
 
#11 ·
I'm just thankful I seem to have at least temporarily solved the problem. I am going to have to wait until it stops with the endless rain here in Cleveland before I can replace all the relays and put some dielectric grease on the new ones before install.

Not happy with what I found out about the alternator, but so far it hasn't given me any indication that it is failing... (I realize I just put my foot in my mouth.)
 
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