You need to move the turn signal switch either up or down in order to activate the flasher on the turn signal, which enables other road users to know of your intentions. It is therefore important that the turn signal switch operates properly. If it develops some fault, you can easily fix it yourself. Here are the things to do.

Necessary tools and materials

• Steering wheel puller
• Rag
• New turn signal switch
• Your car’s repair manual

Get the appropriate repair manual

The turn signal switches in different makes and models of cars are repaired differently; hence you need the relevant repair manual for your car. Use the steps mentioned below along with the information you get in the manual to make the required replacement.

Disconnect the battery

Ensure that you avoid any chances of electric shock by disconnecting the battery. Place the positive terminal on a rag to prevent it from touching any part of the car.

Remove the steering wheel

It may be necessary to remove the steering wheel to access the turn signal switch. Remove it from the steering column by using a steering wheel puller. There is a plastic shroud on the column that gives access to the switch.

Disconnect the wiring harness

You need to disconnect the turn signal switch from the wiring harness. You may either jot down how the wires are connected or take a digital photograph that will help you to during assembly.

Put the new turn signal switch

Put the replacement turn signal switch where you have removed the faulty one.

Then put back everything in reverse order before testing the new turn signal switch.

The turn signal plays an important role in safe driving because it helps other people – both pedestrians and other drivers – to know what you want to do. You should therefore know what you need to do if the signal light fails to turn on. These are some of the things you need to check.
The bulb
If you hear a normal clicking sound when you turn the lever but the turn signal light does not blink, then you should check whether the bulb functions as it should. You may need to replace the bulb if it has become faulty. Wipe the socket using a clean piece of cloth before you make the replacement to remove any debris that may interfere with the connection. The replacement bulb should be of the right voltage.
Fuse
Check the fuse especially if there are other problems with the lighting system. Use the car’s manual to determine the position of the relevant fuse that you need to replace.
Wiring
The turn signal forms part of the electrical system in the car. A problem in the wiring system may cut the power that goes to the light. A fault in the wiring system is likely to affect other components in the car. Check the lever that is used to turn on the light as you inspect the wiring system.
Let an expert check the wiring system if you do not have relevant skills.
Flasher unit
This is the part that makes the turn signal turn on and off by connecting and disconnecting the circuit respectively. Remove the unit and use a jumper wire to determine whether it is the source of the problem.