It's happened to all of us. You're driving along, minding your own business, when you go to signal a turn and nothing happens. The first time it happens, it's usually not a big deal. You just figure that maybe you forgot to turn on your lights or something. But when it happens again and again, it can start to become a real pain.
If your Toyota's turn signals have been acting up lately, don't worry - you're not alone. Many Toyota owners have reported problems with their turn signals, and it's actually a fairly common issue. In most cases, it's a simple problem that can be fixed relatively easily.
So, what can you do if your Toyota's turn signals are giving you trouble? Read on to find out.
Check the fuse
One of the most common reasons why Toyota's turn signals may not be working is a blown fuse. Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix. Just open up the fuse box and check to see if the fuse for the turn signals has blown. If it has, simply replace it with a new fuse and you should be good to go.
Check the relay
Another common cause of Toyota's turn signals not working is a faulty relay. The relay is responsible for sending the signal from the turn signal switch to the lights, so if it's not working properly, the turn signals will not work.
To check the relay, first locate it in the fuse box. It will usually be labeled "turn signal relay" or something similar. Once you've found it, take it out and inspect it for any signs of damage. If the relay looks damaged, it will need to be replaced.
If the relay doesn't look damaged, then the next step is to test it. To do this, you'll need a multimeter. First, set the multimeter to the continuity setting. Then, touch one of the terminals on the relay with one of the probes. Now, touch the other probe to the other terminal. If the multimeter beeps, then the relay is working properly. If it doesn't beep, then the relay will need to be replaced.
Check the turn signal switch
The turn signal switch is responsible for sending the signal to the relay in the first place. So, if the turn signal switch is not working properly, the turn signals will not work.
To test the turn signal switch, you'll need a multimeter set to the continuity setting. First, disconnect the connector from the switch. Then, touch one of the probes to one of the terminals on the connector. Now, touch the other probe to the other terminal. If the multimeter beeps, then the switch is working properly. If it doesn't beep, then the switch will need to be replaced.
Check the wiring
In some cases, the problem may not be with the turn signal switch or relay, but with the wiring between them. To check the wiring, you'll need a multimeter set to the continuity setting.
First, disconnect the connector from the turn signal switch. Then, touch one of the probes to one of the terminals on the connector. Now, touch the other probe to the corresponding terminal on the relay. If the multimeter beeps, then the wiring is good. If it doesn't beep, then there is a problem with the wiring and it will need to be repaired or replaced.
If all of these things have been checked and are working properly, then the problem may be with the turn signal bulbs.
Check turn signal bulb
In some cases, the problem may be with the turn signal bulbs themselves. One way to check this is to simply swap out the bulbs with a new set. If the new bulbs work, then you know that the old ones were the problem.
Another way to check the bulbs is with a multimeter set to the continuity setting. First, remove the bulbs from the sockets. Then, touch one of the probes to one of the terminals on the socket. Now, touch the other probe to the other terminal. If the multimeter beeps, then the bulb is good. If it doesn't beep, then the bulb will need to be replaced.
If you've checked all of these things and you're still having problems with your turn signals, then you may need to take your car to a mechanic for further diagnosis.
How much does it cost to fix turn signals?
The average cost of replacing a turn signal switch ranges from $81 to $102. Labor fees range from $81 to $102. This estimate does not include taxes and fees, as well as your vehicle or location-specific costs.
On the other hand, the average cost of repairing turn signal wiring ranges from $194 to $422. Labor fees range from $194 to $422. This estimate does not include taxes and fees, as well as your vehicle or location-specific costs.
Finally, the average cost of replacing a turn signal bulb ranges from $14 to $33. Labor fees range from $14 to $33. This estimate does not include taxes and fees, as well as your vehicle or location-specific costs.
Conclusion
If your turn signals are not working, the first thing you should do is check the fuse and relay. If they are both working properly, then the next thing to check is the turn signal switch. If the turn signal switch is not working properly, then the next thing to check is the wiring between the switch and relay.
If all of these things have been checked and are working properly, then the problem may be with the turn signal bulbs themselves. Finally, if you've checked all of these things and you're still having problems with your turn signals, then you may need to take your car to a mechanic for further diagnosis.