How to Repair the Turn Signal on a PT Cruiser
by Daniel Valladares
If a turn signal on your Chrysler PT Cruiser begins to malfunction, the three most common reasons are burnt-out bulbs, broken or popped fuses, or loose wiring. All three problems have simple solutions, although the process differs for the rear and front turn signals. Repairing your turn signals is important because, not only does it help prevent accidents, but driving with faulty lights could lead to a citation from the local authorities.
Front Turn Signal
Step 1
Turn off the engine, and put on the gloves,
Step 2
Remove the headlight cover access shield, located in the front wheel well opening. Lightly tug on the electrical connector found at the rear of the assembly. If it comes out, securely plug it in. If the turn signal still does not work, you may need a replacement bulb.
Step 3
Rotate the turn signal socket to the left,and pull it out of the assembly. Remove the bulb, and replace it with a new 4157NAKX bulb. Place the socket back into the assembly, and turn it to the right to secure it. Reattach the headlight cover access shield. If the turn signal still not work, you may need to check the fuse.
Step 4
Open the driver-side door, and locate the fuse panel underneath the steering wheel. Remove the cover, and locate the fuse numbered "2." If the metal stick inside the fuse is broken, it will need to be replaced.
Step 5
Grab the fuse with your index finger and thumb, and remove it. Replace it with a 15A blue fuse. Place the cover back onto the fuse panel, and close the door.
Rear Turn Signal
Step 1
Turn off the engine, and put on the gloves.
Step 2
Remove the retaining screw attaching the tail light assembly to the vehicle. Pull the assembly out of the vehicle. Lightly pull on the electrical connector. If the connector comes out, push it firmly back into the assembly. If the turn signals still do not work, you may need to replace the turn signal bulb.
Step 3
Twist the bulb socket to the left to remove it from the assembly. Pull the old bulb out of the socket, and replace it with a new 3057 bulb. Place the socket back into the assembly, and rotate it clockwise. Place the assembly back into the vehicle, and reattach the retaining screw. If the turn signal lights still do not come on, you may need to check the fuse.
Step 4
Open the hood of the vehicle and locate the underhood fuse block next to the air filter. Remove the cover and locate the fuse numbered "12." If the metal stick inside the fuse is broken, it will need to be replaced.
Step 5
Grab the fuse with your index finger and thumb, and remove it. Replace it with a 15A blue fuse. Place the cover back onto the underhood fuse block, and close the hood.
References
- "2005 PT Cruiser Owner's Manual"; DaimlerChrysler; 2004
Tips
- If the turn signals are still malfunctioning, consider taking your vehicle to a mechanic.
Things You'll Need
- Clean gloves
- Phillips screwdriver
- 4157NAKX (front) or 3057 (rear) replacement bulb
- 15A blue replacement fuse
Writer Bio
Daniel Valladares began his career as a medical writer in 2008. He has written patient education brochures for several pharmaceutical companies and has worked as an auto mechanic at Kim's Speedy Auto Service since 2007. Valladares holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rice University and is currently studying to become a personal trainer.
