This article will be a great help on how to test turn signal relays and troubleshoot relay faults, which can be quite troublesome. Here, I will provide you with detailed instructions on the method.
What is a turn signal relay?
The relays of turn signals are some of the important electrical components in the automotive turn signal systems. The main functions of a turn signal relay include governing the turn signals' flashing rhythms when drivers press the turn switches. When drivers trigger turn signals, the signals are then immediately sent to this relay, which cyclically closes or opens the circuits to make turn signals flash at regular frequencies to signal to other road users your intention of turning.
Turn signals on road work vehicles are controlled by flashers, or in other words, relays-electrical devices designed specially for the regulation of flashing and putting out the lights.
A typical turn signal relay is usually mounted in small boxes near the fuse box either in or under the dash to take input signals from the turn signal switch located on the steering column. These are input signals received from the drivers when they want to activate turn signals by moving the up-down switch on them. When turned on by a toggle up or down, the relay picks up their electrical signal, in turn opening or closing the circuits and making turn signal lights flash.
Thus, the timing mechanism of the relay can provide an ideal flash frequency of the turn signal lights within a range from 60 to 120 flashes per minute depending on the vehicle type and the regional regulations. This warns other drivers or pedestrians of a lane change and hence generally improves road safety.
When the turn signal light does not light up or flashes abnormally, it may mean that its relay is faulty; you need to replace it in that case.In addition, if you have a need to replace the turn signal relay, we can provide professional solutions
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Testing method for signal relay
1. Test voltage
2. Test the circuit
3. Troubleshooting in practical application scenarios
Symptoms of turn signal relay malfunction
Turn signal relay stops working
In case of failure to the turn signal relay once the hazard signal button is pressed, it will result in a malfunction of the relevant lights not giving proper lighting. Although such kinds of problems usually do not directly cause serious engine performance failures, malfunction of turn signals undoubtedly greatly increases driving risks.
The abnormally fast blinking of this signal light usually means that the light bulb might have been damaged. In most cases, the replacement of the turn signal bulb is as easy and inexpensive as replacing damaged light bulbs, which is both easy and cheap.
But if the problem does not lie in the faulty light bulb, one may need to inspect the turn signal system deeper inside, and consider replacement of a turn signal relay.
Turn signal relay remains illuminated
Another symptom of a turn signal relay malfunction is that it stays on instead of flashing. Although they are on, they will not appear when the driver wants to turn left/right or in other situations. The main result of this issue is an electrical problem. Therefore, regular vehicle inspections are necessary.
Other lights are not on
In some cases, additional lights such as headlights, running lights, or brake lights may also not work with turn signal relays. The reason is that these lights may be connected to or linked to the hazard signals of certain cars. Therefore, occasionally, unless your turn signal is incorrect, it can cause other lights to not work.
If you want to learn more about the details of turn signal fault testing, please watch the following video: