Hazard & Turn Signal Flasher Repair Costs
Flasher Relay Replacement
Labor: 0.5 hours ($62.50)
Parts: $15-30
Total Cost: $77.50-92.50
A straightforward repair involving replacing the flasher relay unit, which is usually easily accessible.
Turn Signal Switch Replacement
Labor: 1-2 hours ($125-250)
Parts: $50-150
Total Cost: $175-400
More complex repair requiring steering column access and careful removal/installation of the switch assembly.
Wiring Repair
Labor: 1-3 hours ($125-375)
Parts: $10-50
Total Cost: $135-425
Cost varies significantly based on the location and extent of wiring damage. Diagnostic time may be required.
Multi-Function Switch Replacement
Labor: 1.5-2.5 hours ($187.50-312.50)
Parts: $75-200
Total Cost: $262.50-512.50
Complex repair involving steering column disassembly and careful component replacement.
*Note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on vehicle make/model and specific repair requirements. Additional diagnostic fees may apply.
Hazard / Turn Signal Flasher Repair Guide
Electronic Flasher Unit
Common Symptoms:No flashing, constant on, or irregular flashing speed
Repair Steps:
- Locate the flasher unit (usually under dashboard or in fuse box)
- Remove the old flasher unit by gently pulling it from its socket
- Compare the new unit with the old one to ensure correct replacement
- Insert the new flasher unit into the socket
- Test both turn signals and hazard lights
Time Required:15-30 minutes
Thermal Flasher Unit
Common Symptoms:Slow flashing, no flashing, or continuous illumination
Repair Steps:
- Identify the thermal flasher location (typically near steering column)
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery
- Remove the old thermal flasher unit
- Install new thermal flasher, ensuring proper orientation
- Reconnect battery
- Test operation of turn signals and hazards
Time Required:30-45 minutes
LED Flasher Conversion
Common Symptoms:Fast flashing or no flashing when using LED bulbs
Repair Steps:
- Purchase an LED-compatible flasher unit
- Locate the original flasher unit
- Remove old unit and note wire connections
- Install LED flasher unit
- Test with LED bulbs installed
- Adjust timing if unit is adjustable
Time Required:30-60 minutes
Important Notes:
- Safety First:Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components
- Compatibility:Ensure replacement parts match your vehicle's specifications
- Professional Help:Seek professional assistance if unsure about any step
Note: Repair times may vary based on vehicle make, model, and technician experience. Some vehicles may require additional steps not listed here.
Understanding Hazard & Turn Signal Flashers
Electronic Flasher
An electronic flasher is a solid-state device that uses electronic components to control the flashing of turn signals and hazard lights. It operates without any moving parts, making it more reliable and durable than traditional thermal flashers. Electronic flashers provide consistent flash rates regardless of the electrical load and are compatible with both LED and traditional bulbs.
Thermal Flasher
A thermal flasher is a traditional mechanical device that uses a bi-metallic strip to create the flashing effect in turn signals and hazard lights. When current flows through the strip, it heats up and bends, breaking the circuit. As it cools, it returns to its original position, completing the circuit again. This process creates the familiar clicking sound and flashing pattern in your vehicle's signals.
Heavy Duty Flasher
Heavy duty flashers are designed specifically for larger vehicles or applications with higher electrical loads. These robust units can handle multiple bulbs and increased amperage requirements commonly found in trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles. They're built with enhanced durability to withstand demanding conditions and continuous use.
LED Compatible Flasher
LED compatible flashers are specially designed to work with LED lights, which draw significantly less current than traditional bulbs. These flashers compensate for the lower power draw of LEDs to maintain proper flash rates and prevent hyperflashing (rapid flashing). They're essential when upgrading from traditional bulbs to LED lighting systems.
Variable Load Flasher
Variable load flashers are versatile units that can accommodate different electrical loads while maintaining consistent flash rates. They're ideal for vehicles that might switch between different types of bulbs or have varying numbers of lights in their signal circuits. These flashers automatically adjust to the connected load to ensure proper operation.
Universal Flasher
Universal flashers are designed to work across multiple vehicle applications and lighting configurations. They typically feature standardized connections and operating parameters that make them suitable for a wide range of vehicles. These flashers often include built-in compatibility for both LED and traditional bulbs, making them a versatile replacement option.
Common Failure Symptoms of Hazard & Turn Signal Flashers
Hazard & Turn Signal Flasher: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Electronic Flasher Units
Signs of Failure:
- Turn signals or hazard lights not blinking at all
- Irregular blinking patterns or speed
- Lights staying constantly on without blinking
- Unusual clicking sounds from the dashboard
- Turn signals working on only one side
Service Schedule:
Electronic flasher units typically don't have a specific maintenance schedule and are designed to last the vehicle's lifetime. However, they should be inspected during regular electrical system checks, usually every 50,000 miles.
Thermal Flasher Units (Older Vehicles)
Signs of Failure:
- Very slow blinking rate
- Erratic flashing behavior
- Complete failure to flash
- Burning smell from dashboard area
- Mechanical clicking sound becomes faint or stops
Service Schedule:
Thermal flashers should be:
- Inspected every 30,000 miles
- Tested during annual vehicle inspections
- Replaced preventively every 100,000 miles or if any symptoms occur
Important Note: If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified technician, as proper functioning turn signals and hazard lights are essential for safe driving and legal compliance.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
