The Location of the Turn Signal Flasher on a 1997 Buick LaSabre
by Marion Cobretti
The turn signal flasher is a small relay that controls the individual current sent to each Buick LeSabre turn signal bulb. Don't confuse the flasher relay with the hazard relay; they're separate components. Damage to the flasher relay occurs most often because of an electrical short, which usually happens due to a loose wire but can also be caused by water entering the front or rear taillight assembly. The turn signals may stop working, only work on one side or stay illuminated. You can install a new turn signal flasher in the 1997 Buick LeSabre right at home in 10 minutes.
Step 1
Open the driver’s door on your LeSabre and kneel down so that you can see underneath the dashboard. If your car has silencing trim in place beneath the dashboard, remove the bolts that hold it in place with a socket wrench. Lower the trim away from the dashboard and set it along with its bolts on the floor.
Step 2
Locate the turn signal flasher relay under the dashboard. If you are sitting in the driver’s seat, the flasher mounts on the left. When you look under the dashboard, depending on how you’re positioned, it will mount on the right.
Step 3
Look under the dashboard and follow the steering column down to the lip of the dashboard. You will see two relays. One relay controls the hazards, and the other is the turn signal flasher. An easy way to remember which relay goes to the turn signal is to mark it with correction fluid.
References
- "Chilton's General Motors Buick, Oldsmobile, Pontiac FWD 1985-2005 Repair Manual"; Christine L. Sheehy; 2007
- "Buick, Oldsmobile and Pontiac Full-Size Models 1985 Thru 2002 Haynes Repair Manuals"; Mike Stubblefield; 2003
Tips
- Before you replace the relay, disconnect the negative battery cable with a socket wrench. Remove the turn signal fuse from the fuse box with a pair of needle-nose pliers. The relay will be held in place by either a clamp or a zip tie.
Things You'll Need
- Socket wrench set
- Needle-nosed pliers
- Correction fluid (optional)
Writer Bio
Marion Cobretti began working as a freelance writer in 2006. His work appears on Newsvine and other websites. Cobretti completed a three-year course in automotive technology and is currently seeking an Associate of Applied Science at Macomb Community College.
