How do I test turn signals that aren't working with an ohm meter?

Answer 1

Always give year, make, engine size and model # when asking questions. Nothing is the same.
-To check the bulbs - rx1 - one test lead to ground (metal side of bulb). The other test lead to positive (end of bulb). If it's good - very little resistance.
-When tesing for open circuits (not making connection) rx1 = 0 is good connection.
-To check if socket has a good ground - rx1 - One test lead to inside edge of socket. The other lead to ground on vehical.
-To check if positive of socket is good - rx1 - With key off. One lead to inside center of socket. The other lead to connector of wire harness.
-Anything after that, it's wire diagram time. Buy a shop manual.
-rx1 checks for continuity. When there are no breaks in the circuit, resistence = zero.
-Check continuity from the turn signal switch to the bulbs (key off).
-Check for continuity from flasher relay to turn signal switch (key off).
-Check for battery voltage to flasher relay (key on).
-If every thing checks out so far, with the key on and signal switch pushed L or R, you should feel the flasher relay click on and off.
-Don't forget to check the turn signal fuse.

Answer 2

Use the ohms function to test the bulbs. They should read about 10-12 ohms depending on the Watts they are rated at. Connect the low to the base of the bulb and the HI of the DMM to the center of the bulb.


Use the DC Volts section to test the blinker circuit. Connect the DMM low to a screw or unpainted part on the frame and the HI lead of the DMM to the blinker wire. When activated the meter should show a voltage that's going on and off. This may be hard to check with a digital meter, so a 12 VDC circuit tester may be a better choice.

If you suspect that the blinker circuit is shot, you can use the ohms function of the DMM to look for a short or leakage. I think most of the blinker circuits now days are solid state so I can't be more helpful with values for the output impedance of the blinker circuit. Obviously, a short to ground on the output of the blinker is bad.

If you could post the schematics, it would be easier to give you some more hints.

Good luck!

Answer 3

yeah turn on the car than turn on the signal and get out of the car and walk around to see if they work why would you use an ohm meter to test these lights if the signals aren't working check the blinker fuse or change it that should fix the problem unless you have burned out lights

Answer 4

You really can't... trust me... I've tried. You need a 12 Volt trouble sensor that you can get at any auto parts store.

Answer 5

Why the s**** do you want to use an ohmmeter? For short A*** bike cables you can even unwind them and check for breaks. You do like a good headbanger don't you?