VW Beetle Turn Signals and Hazard Inoperable
December 24, 2009 10:52 am Consumer, DIY, VW
Summary: A common problem is when both turn signals and hazard lights go out at same time, on a VW New Beetle. The next question – Where is the flasher located? Many cars have separate flashers, one for the turn signals and one for the hazard lights. A good reason for separate flashers is that both are unlikely to fail at the same time and a driver in an emergency situation would be able to turn on some flashing lights to alert other drivers. VW, was unable to grasp this idea so they designed a dual purpose flasher relay – when it fails, the turn signals and hazards will NOT work. The turn signal and hazard flasher relay is integrated into the hazard flasher switch. When the relay fails it will cause both the turn signals and the hazard lights to stop working. The unit is replaced as an assembly, see the picture below.
The flasher relay is built into the hazard switch.
No turn signal operation? Hazards don’t work? If neither work it is likely that the flasher which is built into the hazard switch has failed. If tests 2 and 3 check good and tests 4 and 5 fail, the hazard switch is at fault and needs to be replaced. Tests 6 and 7 check the integrity of the wiring from the hazard switch to the turn signal switch, also the operation of all the turn signal lights wiring, sockets and bulbs. It’s important to note that if the turn signals can be heard but are not operating the turn signal switch itself could be the problem – using the outlined tests below can help to pinpoint this problem as well.
2. Verify ground at pin number five – (brown wire) on most models.
3. With the ignition switch in the on position, check for power on pin number 4 (gray with blue tracer), 6 (black with white tracer) and 7 (red with green tracer).
5. Try the right and then left signal and verify that pulsed voltage is present at pin number 1 (black/white/green) in each position.
6. Jump 12 volt power (the use of a power probe makes this very easy) to pins 3 and 2 and check to make sure that all signal lights are illuminated.
7. Jump 12 volts power to pin number 1 and check for left and right signal operation when the turn signal switch is selected from left to right.
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Sam Higgs :
Date: June 5, 2010 @ 11:08 am
Where is the cheapest hazard relay I can purchase.
Thanks
dennisb - Auto Tool Sales :
Date: June 5, 2010 @ 11:11 am
Not sure. May take a few calls to local parts stores to check price and availability. I don’t think it would be that expensive even through the VW parts dept.
Navin :
Date: July 10, 2010 @ 7:04 pm
The part is 1C0-953-235BB41 in many cases. Part is around $30 at the VW dealer and one or two dollars cheaper on-line.
amy :
Date: February 3, 2011 @ 11:43 pm
Thanks for the fabulous tip! I hope it works!
Jo :
Date: March 14, 2011 @ 3:40 pm
What is the best way to remove the hazard switch from the dash? Do I need a special tool to pry it out?
Mrs.Chris :
Date: January 17, 2013 @ 6:18 am
Jo, two options…
1) insert flat head above hazard switch and dash and try and push the metal clip holding it in (top of switch)
2)remove two screws underneath, then pop the two face plate to the left/right of switches… I didn’t know they came off. There are 2 screws holding the hazard/defrost dash. Once removed, pull the relay and cord plug apart (pull… No clips)
Ta da… You’re done.
I have pics, (as I just did mine 10 mins ago) now I need the part 🙂