Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Turn Signal Problems - Need Inspection Sticker!

[vastan]

I have a '97 2500 with 113k' miles. This past week the left rear turn signal stopped working just before the inspection sticker expired. Below is a list of the symptoms. I am hoping that there is a simple fix and that I will not have to go through the wiring to find a short.



1) I replaced both the top and bottom light bulbs in the left rear light housing. Only the bottom light bulb appeared burned out. This was performed prior to the diagnostics below.

2) With the ignition on, the left turn signal indicator on and light switch turned on, neither the left front turn signal or left rear turn signal blink. Otherwise, all the lights both front and rear are on without the left turn signal turned on. In addition, the left rear brake light does not work and cuts off all left rear lights.

3) With the ignition on, the emergency blinker switch pushed down (engaged) and light switch turned off, only the left rear turn signal does not work (i. e. the front left turn signal works fine).



Thanks,

 

[GAmes]

The bottom bulb is the back up light. I would try a new flasher unit. They are located in the fuse panel on the left side of the dash. First just try swapping their locations. Be sure to check the pins and connectors for corrosion. Since the emergency flasher gets little use it should work fine in the turn signal position, but both flashers have to be good for the system to work correctly.

 

[NIsaacs]

I would check for power on the left turn contact in the bulb socket, and make sure the ground contact is good also. The fact that the left tail light goes out when you step on the brake indicates a bad ground.

Nick

 

[GAmes]

The fact that the left tail light goes out when you step on the brake indicates a bad ground.

I agree, I missed that part. The ground could be inside the bulb. Try a new bulb.