For a few weeks my left turn signal has been out in the rear. I’ve been getting my head chewed off using hand signals because I kept forgetting to stop and get a new bulb. Well I got the bulb, and before I get the chance to put it in, I notice my signals not making a fast blink noise. Sure enough the original bulb is back to doing its job.
It’s not a big deal, except I have to get the inspection done soon. If the signal decides not to work again🤷 Is there anything I can do or check to help prevent that? What is likely to have been the cause? When the turn signal noise is fast on the cabin I thought it always indicates a failed bulb, but what is it actually detecting?
Your bulb has failed or the socket is burned/loose. Replace the bulb and inspect the socket for heat marks or a loose connection.
The flasher works on heat and resistance. When you remove one bulb the resistance of the circuit goes up (parallel circuit). The flasher heats up and cycles faster.
Incandescent bulbs can temporarily weld themselves back together and work for a while. It’s pretty common to be able to smack a burned out headlight and get another day or two out of it.