You can tell when your turn signal lights are blinking because your vehicle has corresponding icons that light up on the dashboard. Your vehicle also makes a clicking sound whenever the lights blink. However, there might be times when you notice that your turn signal lights are blinking faster than normal. In this article, we’ll tackle why this is happening and whether or not you should be concerned.
Before we delve into the cause of a fast blinking turn signal light, we first need to understand how a turn signal works.
In most older automobiles, the turn signal circuit is simple. Power from the battery goes through a fuse and then to a turn signal relay (or flasher). Power is directed by the turn signal switch to one of the two circuits that have a set of turn signal lights. When the driver moves the turn signal switch, it will complete one of the two circuits and the bulbs connected to that circuit will blink.
The turn signal relay allows the turn signal lights to blink by completing or breaking the circuit at an interval of 60 to 120 blinks per minute. This specific internal is designed to allow drivers to quickly identify and react when they see a vehicle’s turn signals.
Most newer vehicles operate a bit differently. In many cases, a control module (computer) receives input from the turn signal switch, indicating the driver wants to signal a turn. The module then pulses the appropriate turn signal light on and off.
For the turn signal relay to blink at the intended interval, elements such as the circuit’s current, resistance, and voltage need to meet the turn signal relay’s specifications. Changing any of these elements can lead to a different blink interval. Here are some causes of fast-blinking turn signal lights.
Faulty, blown, or burned-up bulbs interrupt the circuit’s resistance, causing an altered current to flow through the circuit.
The turn signal relay is programmed to flash at the right interval when two bulbs on one side of a vehicle are in good condition. However, if one of the bulbs on the left or right side of the relay is blown, the relay begins to flash twice as fast because twice as much current is flowing.
To see if your bulbs have failed, test each signal direction to see if any bulbs have gone out. You can also inspect each bulb for damaged filaments, or soot accumulating on the glass portion of the bulb, as this can be a sign that the bulb has burned out.
Aftermarket turn signal bulbs that don’t fit the required specifications of the system can affect the turn signal light’s blink interval. To have the correct blink interval, it’s important that you use replacement bulbs that meet the relay’s specifications.
Avoid changing bulb types or adding extra aftermarket lights that aren’t compatible with the turn signal relay. If you recently upgraded the lighting system and have a fast-blinking turn signal light, then you might have used an incompatible part.
Damaged wiring or connectors can also add resistance along the circuit and affect the turn signal relay’s blink interval. The turn signal relay itself can also become faulty because of water damage, heat, or wear and tear. Additionally, turn signal wires can deteriorate and rust. As a result, they might lose their ground connection, preventing the turn signal from functioning. Examine the wires carefully for signs of burning, wear, or corrosion. Look for a faulty connection. If you find a loose wire, you might notice that it only works properly sometimes. Inspecting the cables with a test light or a multimeter will help you determine the source of the problem.
Luckily, these components are reasonably easy to replace. Just remember to use the right parts when it comes to replacements.
Another cause could be a blown turn signal fuse. If your old one has failed, you’ll need to replace it. The fuse is usually located alongside the turn signal relay under the hood. However, this can vary depending on the vehicle model. Check your owner’s manual to be sure.
Sometimes, a fast-blinking turn signal light will coincide with other electrical symptoms like dim interior lights or flickering lights on your dashboard. This can be a sign of an electrical malfunction somewhere in the vehicle. But they can also be symptoms of either a faulty alternator or faulty battery.
Should you be worried if your turn signal light is blinking fast? The Department of Transportation requires turn signal lights to only blink at a maximum of 120 times per minute. However, while police can technically cite you for violating a law, police don’t really ticket people who have a fast-blinking turn signal light. Regardless, we still recommend that you regularly check your turn signal lights to see if they’re functioning.
Also, you should be aware that these symptoms could be a sign of a larger issue, so it’s best that you address them as soon as possible.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.