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        General >> Problems >> indicators come on at same time
        
(Message started by: scorpius new on May 22^nd, 2007, 1:17pm)

Title: indicators come on at same time
Post by scorpius new on May 22^nd, 2007, 1:17pm

When i put my indicators on they come on like hazard lights, sometimes they function normally but not often, i have tried everything i can think of, changed stalk, relay behind the indicator stalk, checked fuses, relays, fuse box is dry, HELP!!!!!!! ??? Andy

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by jonnycab on May 22^nd, 2007, 3:13pm

Have you tried removing the hazard relay to see if that helps ? :)

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by Spannerdemon on May 22^nd, 2007, 3:26pm

I think that the only logical explanation is that the stalk switch itself is defective. You say you've changed it. Was it a new or a second hand one that you replaced the old one with? If it's a new one, it's not likely, but even new parts can be faulty.

Also, check the relays again. Relays are notoriously difficult to check out, and often the only way to check them is to fit a NEW replacement. It is possible to put hazard flasher relays into indicator relay sockets by mistake, for example, and vice versa which will give problems. Can't remember the exact blade layout on the Scorpio, but it can, and has been done.

I know that you say you've done all this, but really these are the only options. Are the relays that you're using, the right ones for the car? Don't just assume that they are, as they may have been fitted by a previous owner, and be incorrect.

These sort of things are a pain, but you'll get there. ;)

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by TiberiuS on May 22^nd, 2007, 7:36pm

Hi. AFAIK, the same relay is used for both hazards and normal indicators - there's no seperate hazard relay and it's a standard single pole so if it's clicking and the lights are flashing, it's ok.

All I can think is a sticking contact in the hazard switch or some loom issue bridging both sides after the switch. If it was me I'd be putting a multimeter on the switch unit to see what contacts were closing and taking it from there.

Regards, Bruce.

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by scorpius new on May 23^rd, 2007, 3:33pm

Any info on how to check the switch unit and where to look for damage on the loom? I am an absolute fool when it comes to electrics, thanx guys ;)

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by TiberiuS on May 23^rd, 2007, 3:52pm

Crikey mate, it's hard to explain :).

If you can get a decent digital multimeter (only about £20 from Argos or Halfords), it'll be your best friend if you have to work on the electrics, even if you're a dunce at them...believe me.

My thinking was that in the wiring diagram here (http://www.carsoft.ru/avtorepair/sierra/signal.pdf), both the hazards and indicators use the same relay so if the loom got crossed after the switch, you'd get both sets of lamps flashing like hazards.

If you've changed the column switch as you say you have, I'd be looking at the area where the circuit joins the central junction box (fusebox) before it goes to the indicator bulbs, a crossed circuit there would cause your problem.

A bit unorthodox, but I'd probably start with unplugging the column switch and testing for resistance between the left and right indicator bulbs in the boot (easy to get to) - if you get continuity (near zero resistance) there it means the fault is indeed after the switch and very likely where the loom joins the fusebox.

Can't say any more for certain because I don't have my Scorpio to look at for reference any more but the fusebox is my guess, thoroughly check the multiplugs and looms for any damage and double check there's no moisture or signs of water damage there.

Hope this helps.

Regards, Bruce.

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by scorpius new on May 24^th, 2007, 12:55pm

Thanks Bruce, I'll give it a shot and post back here the results ;)

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by scorpius new on May 30^th, 2007, 1:18pm

still cant figure it out, dont understand multimeter, had enough now, think i might just sell it, would have got an auto electrician out but have just lost my job, so cant afford it, i love the car but it is really driving me mad, probably only a minor problem aswell :'( :'( :'(

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by TiberiuS on May 30^th, 2007, 6:34pm

Andy, if you lived nearby mate I'd pop over and give you a hand with it ;)

I'm near Colchester in Essex, I don't suppose you're just down the road by any chance? ::)

You need to find out whether there's a short between the L and R indicator lamp looms, if you could trace it, chances are it's a very simple fix.

Regards, Bruce :).

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by Dave2302 on May 30^th, 2007, 6:57pm

I'm wondering if it had an aftermarket alarm before you got it ???

May be that simple, but like Bruce says don't give up on it, I'm in Dartford Kent area and will cast an eye if that's any good to you ;)

Cheers Dave

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by scorpius new on Jun 1^st, 2007, 10:22am

Thanx guys, unfortunately i live in south wales, no aftermarket alarm, just the standard one, i have checked the connections for the towbar, all seem ok, i looked under the dash to check for loom damage but theres just sooo many wires, i dont really understand how to check for short between left and right and dont know which wires to check :'(

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by scorpius new on Jun 8^th, 2007, 1:32pm

Success at last, YIPEE!!! A mate of mine knows someone with the same problem but on his BMW, it was suggested I should totally disconnect the towbar electrics and reconnect with fresh joints, i did this and for the last two days, its been working perfectly, fingers crossed ;D ;D ;D ;D
Thanx ever so much for all your help everyone :D

Title: Re: indicators come on at same time
Post by petehull on Jun 8^th, 2007, 1:54pm

Somewhere in the bushes lies the answer, ???the hardest part i8s dragging it out.....

Glad it's sorted, well done... :D
Pete