A car's blinker system is a key component to safe driving. When a blinker flasher bulb blows out or malfunctions, this can compromise the safety of both the vehicle's occupants and those around the vehicle. Part of regular vehicle care includes ensuring your vehicle is fully operational and all safety features are functional. Check your blinker flashers without the use of any special skills or tools.
Insert the key into the ignition, and turn the car on.
Push the turn signal lever up or down to activate one of the blinkers. If one of the blinkers is malfunctioning, the blinker notification noise might sound more rapidly and the blinker indicator arrow on the dash might blink faster than normal, indicating a short circuit. Proceed to Step 3 if this does not occur to continue checking the status of a possible blinker flasher malfunction.
Have a friend or family member stand in front of the vehicle. Press the blinker lever down to activate the driver's side blinker. Ask your friend if the blinker is flashing. If it is flashing, push the lever up to activate the passenger's side blinker. If your friend indicates this blinker is working, proceed to Step 4.
Have your friend stand behind the vehicle looking at the brake lights. Repeat Step 3 for the back blinkers. If your friend indicates the blinkers are functioning and your car is equipped with side blinkers, proceed to Step 5.
Have your friend stand on the driver's side of the vehicle near the side blinker. On many vehicles, this blinker is on the exterior panel just in front of the door below the side mirror. Some vehicles have a side blinker on the mirror itself. Have your friend stand in a way that allows him full view of the blinker. Press the lever down to activate the blinker. Have your friend stand on the passenger's side. Push the blinker lever up, and wait for your friend's indication.
