Where is the turn signal relay located?
The turn signal relay, often called the flasher, is usually a small module in the vehicle’s fuse/relay box—either under the hood or in the cabin. In many newer cars there is no separate relay at all; the function is handled by the body control module or the turn-signal switch itself.
Common locations for the turn signal relay
These are the spots most cars use for the flasher or its equivalent. The exact placement depends on the make, model, and year, so start with the most accessible location and consult your manual if needed.
- Under-hood fuse/relay box: typically near the battery or along the firewall, with a lid diagram that may label the unit as FL, Flasher, Turn, or similar.
- Interior fuse/relay box: located in the driver’s-side kick panel, glove box, or behind a dash panel; look for a relay labeled for turn signals or flasher on the diagram.
- Steering-column area: in many late-model vehicles the turn-signal function is integrated into the combination switch in the steering column, so there may be no separate relay to swap.
- Body control module (BCM) or integrated module: some cars route the flasher function through the BCM, removing a stand-alone relay from the control circuit.
If you cannot locate a separate relay, check the owner’s manual or a repair guide for a diagram specific to your car; some vehicles rely on integrated control systems rather than a replaceable relay.
How to identify and test the relay
To confirm the location and determine if the relay is failing, follow these steps. They help you verify whether you’re dealing with a bad relay or another lighting fault.
- Find the fuse/relay box that handles lighting circuits and open the cover to read the diagram for the flasher relay.
- Power off the car, then remove the suspected flasher relay and inspect for damage, burning smell, or corrosion.
- Test the relay by swapping it with a known-good unit of the same type, or use a multimeter to check coil resistance and the contact switch when energized.
- If swapping a relay fixes the issue, the original relay may be faulty; if not, the problem could lie in the steering switch, wiring, or BCM.
Note that some vehicles require more advanced diagnostics to access the BCM or steering-column electronics. If you’re unsure, consult a professional to avoid electrical damage or safety risks.
Summary
There is no universal location for the turn signal relay. Start with the under-hood or interior fuse boxes, but be aware that many modern cars use an integrated control system in the BCM or steering-column switch. Use the owner's manual and diagrams to pinpoint the exact spot for your model, and test with a known-good relay or diagnostic tools if you suspect a failure. For persistent or complex issues, seek professional assistance.
