How to Test a Three-Prong Flasher Relay
by Cristian Vera
Flasher relays control the operation of turn signals and hazard flashers on many cars and motorcycles. When a flasher relay malfunctions, the turn signals and hazard lights might glow dimly while the flasher itself emits a buzzing sound; not blink at all; pulse without turning completely off; or blink too quickly. If your vehicle is exhibiting any of these symptoms, testing the flasher relay is a good second step in diagnosing the problem (after checking for burnt bulbs) because flashers are prone to fail periodically and depend on a specific load to operate properly.
Step 1
Identify the terminals. Flasher relays have a power source terminal, sometimes labeled "B" for battery, a load terminal labeled "L" and a panel, or dash-indicator terminal, labeled "P." The circuit diagram is usually printed on the case to facilitate identifying these. If they are not labeled, use an ohm meter to determine which prong is open at rest, i.e., has infinite resistance across to either of the others. This is the "P" terminal. The other two are interchangeable.
Step 2
Clip the test light lead between the "P" terminal and the negative terminal of the battery.
Step 3
Connect the "B" terminal to the positive terminal of the battery using the test wire with equal-length stripped ends, with one clip on each end.
Step 4
Wrap the long-stripped end of the second piece of wire around the base cylinder of the test bulb, securing it with a twist, and connect the short-stripped end to the "L" prong using the third clip.
Step 5
Place the center connector of the test bulb on the battery. At this point, the unit should start flashing, causing both the test light and the load bulb to blink. (The action will be twice as fast as usual because the test bulb represents half the normal load on the relay.) If the bulb and the test light blink at regular intervals, the relay is functioning properly. Otherwise, the unit needs replacement.
References
Things You'll Need
- Ohm meter
- 12-volt battery---a car or motorcycle battery in place will work fine
- Test light
- 12-volt light-bulb, such as a turn-signal bulb
- 18-inch length of 12-gauge or thicker wire, both ends stripped 1/4 inch
- 18-inch length of 12-gauge or thicker wire, one end stripped 1/4 inch and other end stripped 2 inches
- Three alligator clips
Warnings
- Always exercise caution working with electricity. Use gloves to protect yourself.
- Make sure all temporary electrical connections are secure and not resting on a conducting surface. A clean towel or shop rag makes a good insulating surface if working under the hood.
- Older British cars and motorcycles may use a "positive-ground" electrical system. Be sure to reverse polarities accordingly if working on a "positive-ground" vehicle.
Writer Bio
Cristian Vera has been writing in Spanish and English since 2001. His work has been published in the Chilean literary magazine "Rocinante." He studied physics at Reed College in Portland, Ore.
