Corvette: Why is My Turn Signal Blinking Fast?
If the turn signal in your sleek Corvette appears to be suddenly blinking too fast, don't race to your local mechanic seeking an expensive diagnostic report. The solution may be simpler than you think and is provided here.
This article applies to the C5, C6 and C7 Corvette (1997-current).
The Corvette is a high-performance "speed racer" with a muscular exterior that crushes the competition in precision, speed and handling. Equipped with the highest-ranked lighting and signaling devices in the automotive industry, this powerhouse of a speed machine can handle most action on the street or track. While most drivers report few mechanical problems, some owners have experienced problems with the turn signal blinking too fast. In most cases, the problem is easy to fix and the DIY cost is minimum. Let's troubleshoot this pesky problem in the order of the most likely culprit.
Materials Needed
- Heavy duty bulbs
Step 1 – Check for blown bulbs
Turn signal light bulbs with a low wattage (for example, a 20-watt bulb) often generate insignificant illumination and blow out, causing turn signal lights to blink fast. Detach the bulb housing for the blown bulb whether it's front or back, then remove the blow bulb and replace it.
Step 2 – Remove good bulbs that are working but blinking too fast
Detach the outer taillight by hand. The removal process is simple but requires some hand strength. Remove the torx screw that fastens the housing to the vehicle (there should only be one) and lift up.
Next, remove the fast-flashing indicators that you find inside. These light bulbs (3) will be installed separately and zip-tied directly to the loom. You must remove them one by one, and then replace (see Step 4) before heading back out on the road.
Step 3 – Check the turn signal housing for damage
Pay special attention to cracks and other surface damage that could permit rain, surface runoff (i.e., from a recent car wash service) and other environmental debris to pass through the "protective" turn signal housing and crack the bulb.
Figure 3. Front turn signal assembly. 
Figure 4. Not all damage will be noticeable, so take a two-pronged approach by both looking and feeling the surface of the housing for holes.
Pro Tip
Applying a coat (or two) of epoxy is not likely to stop a worn or poorly constructed housing unit from heating and cracking the plastic.
Step 4 – Opt for a "heavy duty" replacement bulb
While regular bulbs will yield satisfactory results, you may want to choose a "heavy duty" bulb in lieu of a regular bulb. Similar in size, both regular and heavy duty bulbs (e.g., Sylvania 4175KNA) are designed to fit Corvettes. However, heavy duty bulbs are more resistant to burnout. Order a heavy duty bulb replacement online or from a local auto parts dealer for approximately $25.
Related Discussions
- Fast Turn Signal - CorvetteForum.com
- Turn Signal Bulbs Burning Out - CorvetteForum.com
