The case of turn signals continuing to turn on even though they have been turned off is quite common. Not only on motorbikes, cars can also experience this incident. The condition of the vehicle that is already old is one of the triggers for the turn signal not turning off even though we have pressed the switch many times. This time, Otomodify will thoroughly dissect this matter. Read the article directly.
Damaged flasher relay
The flasher is a small component that makes the turn signal light flash. If this flasher is damaged or weak, then what will happen to the light is:
- Continuously on without flashing
- Super fast flashing like chasing a show
- The turn signal light doesn't turn on at all
If the condition is like this, the most concise and quickest solution is to replace the new flasher. The price of the flasher is cheap and pocket-friendly.
The turn signal switch is stuck or rusty
The turn signal switch on the handlebars sometimes looks fine. Until finally we find out there is rust inside. The consequences of a rusty or worn turn signal switch are:
- Even though the turn signal lever has returned to its normal position, the electric current is still connected. This causes the turn signal to stay on
The solution? Try spraying contact cleaner on the switch or dismantling and cleaning the rusty inside of the engine. If it is too severe and cannot be repaired, it is better to just replace the switch.
Unstable electricity
A weak battery can disrupt the stability of the electric voltage to the turn signal. A weak or nearly dead battery makes the flasher unable to get enough current to turn on the turn signal. The result:
- The turn signal stays on but does not blink
- The turn signal sometimes turns on and off by itself
The first solution is to check the battery using a voltmeter. If the voltage is below 12v when the engine is off, it is a sign that the battery is weak.
Electrical modifications
The installation of LED lights, hazard lights, or other lights must be completely correct. Careless installation can cause stray current to the turn signal system. Example:
- Hazard cable connected directly to the turn signal system without a protection diode
- Installation of a universal flasher that does not match the wattage or voltage of the motorbike
Make sure that if you modify the electrical system, use the correct scheme. If necessary, consult a more experienced technician.
Fake flasher
Flashers purchased in the aftermarket often have problems. This is why it is better to spend a little more money for an item that has better quality. Flashers with low quality can easily error because:
- Cannot withstand heat
- Easily damaged if the voltage goes up and down
- The blinking delay is unstable
Use a flasher according to the manufacturer's recommendations or at least use an aftermarket product that has been proven to be of good quality.
Short circuit or open cable
If the turn signal cable is peeled and touches the motorbike body, this causes the current to continue to connect even though the switch is off. Signs:
- The turn signal is always on only one side
- Sometimes it flashes, sometimes it doesn't
- Sometimes when shaken, the light comes on
The solution is to check the cables one by one, especially near the turn signal and switch. Wrap it with insulation or replace the cable if necessary.
DIY Hazard
Although the factory has designed and arranged the system in such a way that the electrical system does not clash, some motorcyclists who like modifications sometimes have their own hazard system. What is dangerous is if they install it incorrectly. As a result:
- The turn signal can stay on even though the switch is off
- Even the turn signal can be on at the same time, both of them are on at the same time.
Signs of a problematic turn signal:
- Flashing too fast or too slow
- Only one side is flashing and the other side is silent
- The "tick-tock" sound from the flasher is gone or even keeps on flashing
- The main light suddenly dims when the turn signal is active
If there are any of the above signs, it is likely that the turn signal system is having problems and needs to go to a repair shop.
Tips to keep the turn signal healthy
- Use a flasher that matches the motorcycle's specifications
- Regularly clean the turn signal switch, especially if the motorcycle is often used in the rain
- Avoid arbitrary modifications, especially to the electrical system
- If using LED lights, make sure to also use a special LED flasher
- Check the turn signal cable regularly, make sure nothing is peeled or loose
- Do not install DIY hazards carelessly, especially if you do not understand the electrical scheme
If the turn signal lights continue to light up and do not work as they should, do not panic and immediately go to the repair shop to see an expert.