2002 Electrical Problem

Please help!

My wife's 2002 Grand Prix has an odd problem.

A few weeks ago the directional signal starting blinking rapidly (only on right turns). Today someone told her that two of her brakes lights are out. The
"third" light and the right (passenger) brake light.

Additionally, even though the lights are not turned on, the tail lights are lit like they are. (Both of them.)

Finally-when signalling right, the tail lamp does not blink, the front light blinks rapidly.

Any suggestions????

One last background mention: about 4-6 months ago we had taken the car in for another electrical issue: The AC/Heater Fan would not operate on any setting but 3 or higher. We took it in and had something replaced. (sorry - don't know what it was).

Thanks for your suggestions!!!!!

Welcome to AF.

It sounds like you have a combination of problems. I hope you tried the respective lamps/bulbs first?

If the respective lamps are good a common problem is a flaky multifunction switch at the steering column. The brake lamp circuits pass through that and the hazard switch.

On your prior blower problem the part replaced was either a blower motor resistor (manual HVAC) or blower motor control module <--digital climate control only.

Thank you!

I confess I have not tried replacing the bulbs, because I thought it strange that two were out in combo with what's going on.

Do I have to take apart the steering column to fix this?

Just adding to bnaylor's wise suggestions, the ignition switch/harness issue can also cause funky blower motor operation, but do the simple thing first and check the bulbs.

Thank you!

I confess I have not tried replacing the bulbs, because I thought it strange that two were out in combo with what's going on.

Do I have to take apart the steering column to fix this?

I strongly suggest the lamps first. Then see what left as to symptoms and a possible multifunction switch. Yes, the upper and lower plastic covers only. Steering wheel and air bag module stay installed. Airbag fuse gets pulled for safety. When you are ready we have a detailed replacement R&R procedure. So let me know. Good luck.

I strongly suggest the lamps first. Then see what left as to symptoms and a possible multifunction switch. Yes, the upper and lower plastic covers only. Steering wheel and air bag module stay installed. Airbag fuse gets pulled for safety. When you are ready we have a detailed replacement R&R procedure. So let me know. Good luck.

Wow -

Thank you so much. We'll get the bulbs replaced this weekend and then I'll update this thread with the remaining symptoms.

Thanks for the prompt response - it was the lights. I was not aware the a burnt out tail light would cause the directional signals to go bezerk. After we replaced them, everything is back to normal.

Thanks for the feedback. Sometimes it is the simple things. Glad you got it resolved.