Jeep turn signal problem

[PW2]

I have a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee that has an elusive turn signal problem.
The left direction signal works some of the time, and doesn't work some of the time. The right works all the time, as does the 4 way emergency flasher.

It seems like it may be dirty inside somehow, although it doesn't appear so, and the idea of taking it all apart to clean it looks a bit overwhelming (and expensive if a shop gets involved).

Any one have any ideas, or special cleaning sprays that may be used? I've used compressed air to no avail. I have not found any apparent reason why it works when it works, or why it sometimes doesn't work (which is probably 80% of the time).

 

[v1_0]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

Have you noticed if there is anything, like hitting a bump, that causes it to start working or start not-working?

Please clarify something about the 4 way flasher - does it work 100% of the time with the LEFT turn signal?

How about your running lights?

-V

 

[PW2]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

Have you noticed if there is anything, like hitting a bump, that causes it to start working or start not-working?

Please clarify something about the 4 way flasher - does it work 100% of the time with the LEFT turn signal?

How about your running lights?

-V

Not connected with any bumps at all, that I can tell. When it works, it will work several turns in a row, and then for whatever reason that I can't connect to anything, the next turn it won't work, and no amount of "jiggling", or anything else I try, will get it to work.

The 4 way flasher will work when the button is pushed to activate it, just as it is supposed to do. All four lights flash. It is the same bulb and circuit (or appears to be) that the left turn (and the right) signal is connected to. I have not tried to use the left turn signal with the 4 way flasher at the same time, as I could not figure out what to look for.

The running lights work as they are supposed to work, as near as I can tell (ie, not a bulb problem as far as I can tell.)

I know it makes no sense. There has to be a reason. Electricity should not be this mysterious. There is no apparent difference in the "feel" of the turn switch lever from when it works or doesn't work, and it seems to sound and feel like it makes equally positive contact at all times when activated.

I'd take it apart, except I think I need to take the steering wheel off, and the air bag, and who knows what else to remove the signal apparatus, and frankly that scares me as I have not a clue what I would be getting myself into. I have not had it in to the dealer since this started to happen.

 

[SuperNova]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

IF---when the left turn isn't working 1-Both front and rear turn lamps AND the dash indicator for the left turn don't work AND 2-You immediately hit the 4-ways and all work properly , then you have a faulty combination switch (turn stalk assembly). It is actually pretty easy to change out and a very common failure.
--
Stan

 

[PW2]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

IF---when the left turn isn't working 1-Both front and rear turn lamps AND the dash indicator for the left turn don't work AND 2-You immediately hit the 4-ways and all work properly , then you have a faulty combination switch (turn stalk assembly). It is actually pretty easy to change out and a very common failure.
--
Stan

As near as I can tell, that is exactly what it is doing.

Is that what I ask for when going to the dealer?

Where is this switch located?

Thanks!

 

[SuperNova]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

It is called a "multi-function switch" and more correctly, since there are two on the column, it is the "left multi-function switch". You don't have to remove the steering wheel or airbag at all to do the job. Just remove the column shrouds (one screw from underneath) and two screws for the switch then pull the switch straight out.

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
2. Remove the screw that secures the lower tilting steering column shroud to the steering column multi-function switch mounting housing Unsnap the two halves of the tilting steering column shroud from each other and remove both halves from the steering column.
3. Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness connector from the turn signal and hazard warning (left multi-function) switch connector receptacle.
4. Remove the two screws that secure the left multi-function switch to the multi-function switch mounting housing
5. Remove the left multi-function switch from the multi-function switch mounting housing.

Hope this helps
--
Stan

 

[PW2]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

Thanks so much. I've already removed the shroud. I'll get the dealer to order a new one (presumably he doesn't have one in stock) and go from there.

It looks like something I can handle!

Thanks much!!!

 

[orion25]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

Try the simple solution first. Pull the offending bulb(s) and clean their contacts (a pencil eraser works well). Then give them a coat of di-electric grease and reinstall. See if the problem goes away.

 

[v1_0]

Re: Jeep turn signal problem

Try the simple solution first. Pull the offending bulb(s) and clean their contacts (a pencil eraser works well). Then give them a coat of di-electric grease and reinstall. See if the problem goes away.

Might as well replace the bulb. But do clean the socket connections.

Some conjecture, based on only a little observation: I saw a broken filliment (in another type of bulb) that created an intermittent on/off situation that was very puzzling.

In your case, if the bulb has multiple fillaments (ie: two bulbs in one) then it is far-out possible that one fillament is broken and causing intermittent on/off as it moves around either due to motion or even heat. Like I said, it's a low probability but inexpensive to test (replace the bulb).

-V