97 Taurus Turn Signals not working

[shane_1096]

In my 97 Ford Taurus the turn signals and hazzards are not working. I changed the fuses, but still no luck. Someone mentioned that there might be another fuse box under the hood (besides the maxi fuse box). Also someone mentioned the blinker fluid being low. Any replys are greatful. And oh yeah I am kidding about the blinker fluid, I aint that dumb.

[way2old]

Possibly the multi-function(turn signal)switch.

[giddyup50]

Check all the fuses and relays that are involved with the signals and hazards. Try pulling them out one at a time then see if they work or not. If you pull one then check the signals/haz. and they work you've narrowed it down to something with that fuse or what that fuse allows power to go to. It probably is the multifunction switch (99%). I just changed mine last weekend. It's easy. Get a Haynes manual at any parts store. BE CAREFULL EVEN WITH THE BATT. DISCONNECTED THERE ARE SENSORS FOR THE AIRBAG THAT CAN STILL GO OFF IF YOU ARE CARELESS!!! Took about an hour, any questions just ask. I got the part at Advanced Auto $55 and Ford wanted $300 for the whole job. Just take your time and do it right.

[next_perception]

i had this problem with my 97 ford taurus about 8 months ago. Mine was definately the multifunction switch. not a hard repair.

[shane_1096]

Thanks - I got the Haynes Manual and am reading up on it now.

[giddyup50]

There are some parts of that manual when they say check section 12.2 (example) and you go to that section and you're looking and looking and you swear those people are smoking crack because you can't find what they're talking about. Just keep looking you'll get it. Be carefull when you disconnect the switch not to break the plastic clips on the wiring harness! Any problems, just ask!

[giddyup50]

Hey Shane, go to the thread I wrote NEED HELP BRIGHTS ARE STILL ON. You can see the problem I was having and what shorod had to say. That might help you. Good luck.

[shane_1096]

Thanks for every ones help here - This has to be one of the greatest forums. Plus one can save a lot of money by reading up on here. Thanks for all yalls help

[giddyup50]

So...did you fix the problem? Was it your multifunction switch? Fill us in man.

[shane_1096]

I was planning on working on the switch today and replacing it. I had done called and got one priced and everything. I was on the way to get it when I decided to try the blinkers. They decided to work. I had looked up under and found the switch so I would know what I needed and make sure they did not try to sell me some extra stuff to go with it. I jiggled it a little and pushed some wires around. I reckon it was just a loose connection there. Anyway they are all working now. Thanks for all yalls help.

[giddyup50]

That's what I hate about electical stuff, it could be anything. Well, if you need any help just ask.

[rockinrooney]

thanxs all i hope this sovles my problems as i have tried everything but that the multifunction switch but can somebody tell me where to find this switch once agian thanxs rockinrooney

[GPFred]

The 97 Taurus is very similar to the 98. I had a similar issue and it turned out that there is a relay up under the dash that is part of the turn signal/hazard light system. It could also be that this relay is becoming intermittent. Glad you got the problem fixed.

[KU4MY]

Okay, my 96's turn signals are not working either so, I decided to go ahead and stock up on fuses and grabbed a flasher relay too. Got home with the goodie bag and checked the fuse (10A, third row from left, fourth up from bottom) and it was good. So, now I start to hunt the relay and am unable to find it. Now, as I am an old guy now, focusing on a fuse box or anything like that that is not more than 2 1/2 feet or so away is a challenge.....

Could someone tell me where the flasher relays are mounted for the turn signals and heck emergency flashers too while you are at it please?

[shorod]

Your 1996 Taurus has an electronic flasher located under the left hand side of the instrument panel. It will be a smallish box, probably black and will not look like what you're used to for a flasher. Both the turn signals and the hazard lights use the same flasher.

The three wires to the flasher are black, light blue, and red/white.

-Rod