Turn signal problems

[Paul R. Haller]

I have noticed infrequently that the right turn signal dash indicator will blink very rapidly when the turn signal is not even activated. It's also intermittent. It happened again last night and I got out to see if the outside lights were blinking rapidly also. They were. It's almost as if there is a buzzing noise and the flasher will blink so fast its hard to even tell they are blinking except for the noise.

I'm guessing this is a short of some kind but thought I would run it past the Prius gurus here before taking it to the dealer. It happens so infrequently that I doubt it will do it at the dealer when I want it to though. I'm also guessing without the car actually exhibiting the issue, the dealer wont be able to locate the problem. It's not related to temperature, weather conditions, time of day, or how long the car has operated. If I were doing the trouble shooting I would start at the multi function switch or flasher and their wiring but who knows.
Any Ideas?
-Paul R. Haller-

[qbee42]

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

[Paul R. Haller]

Originally Posted by qbee42

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

Thanks Tom, Yes, I agree that fixing it will be difficult unless it's actually failed or the symptoms are present while at the dealer. So far, I have not been able to identify any precipitating actions to cause the turn signals to do this.
-P-

[Patrick Wong]

Originally Posted by Paul R. Haller

I have noticed infrequently that the right turn signal dash indicator will blink very rapidly when the turn signal is not even activated...If I were doing the trouble shooting I would start at the multi function switch or flasher and their wiring:der: but who knows.

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.

[SparrowHawk60]

>>> 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 ass. Don't forget about the air bag!

[morpheusx]

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.