Turn Signals

Communicating Your Intentions with Turn Signals

Have you ever considered the lifespan of your turn signals or when they might need replacement? Turn signal systems include bulbs, housings, switches, and flasher modules that indicate your intention to change direction or lanes. These components work together to create the flashing amber or red lights other drivers rely on to anticipate your movements. Front turn signals typically use amber lenses, while rear signals may incorporate red lenses that also function as brake lights. The Nissan Rogue and Maxima both feature turn signal systems designed to provide clear visibility from multiple angles while complementing their exterior styling.

How Turn Signal Systems Operate

The turn signal switch on your steering column sends electrical current to the flasher module when activated. This module interrupts the current at regular intervals, creating the characteristic blinking pattern. Current flows to bulbs in both front and rear signal housings on the selected side. The circuit includes a dashboard indicator that flashes in sync with the external lights. Some vehicles incorporate side repeater signals in mirrors or fenders for additional visibility. Modern systems may include self-canceling mechanisms that turn signals off after completing a turn.

Common Turn Signal Component Failures

Bulbs burn out from normal use, typically requiring replacement every few years. Corroded bulb sockets create poor electrical connections that cause intermittent operation or complete failure. The flasher module can fail, resulting in signals that stay solid or don't illuminate at all. Turn signal switches wear internally from repeated use, causing signals to not engage or cancel properly. Water infiltration through damaged housings corrodes wiring and damages bulbs prematurely. Problems with turn signals often coincide with issues in brake lights since they share wiring and sometimes use the same bulb filaments.

When Turn Signal Service Becomes Necessary

Rapid blinking, often called hyper-flashing, indicates a burned-out bulb somewhere in the circuit. Signals that don't flash at all suggest flasher module failure. Turn signals that won't cancel after completing a turn point to switch problems. Dim or yellowed lenses reduce visibility and fail to meet legal brightness requirements. Cracked housings allow moisture intrusion that damages internal components. Generic aftermarket turn signal components often use inferior lens materials and lower-quality bulbs that fail sooner than genuine Nissan parts. We carry factory turn signal assemblies engineered with proper lens colors, correct bulb sockets, and weather-resistant housings that maintain reliable operation and meet all safety regulations for years of dependable service.

Get out of the garage and back on the road in no time with genuine OEM parts from Team One Nissan Albertville.