Re: 1981 320i Turn Signals & Hazard Does Not (archive)

You are in luck. I had the same problem about 2 weeks ago - even on the same year car. Even better is that the fix is free.
If the hazard switch is mis-functioning then the blinkers are dead too. If you check the archives you'll find several of the same since its common problem apparently. Does the hazard switch latch properly or not? Either way if probably has to come apart in order to both fix the latch AND fix the electrical contacts. Basically its this:
Carefully pry and pull out the hazard switch. Not much holding it in its spot. Disconnect the plug - it only goes back on one way later. Gently pry the unit open where you see the two black halfs of the unit come together. Its spring loaded so which its doesn't fly across the room. There is a metal catch that gets bent. You'll see once its appart. Straighten that. Secondly, clean the electrical contacts. Use pencil eraser to clean them or perhaps just a Q-tip with alcohol. Put the thing back together and voila both problems are fixed.
Or just replace the hazard switch and you're done.
Peter S

I just Bought the car & the turn signals & hazards died. what could this be? Someone told me it could be the flash but I don't have an owners manual so i have no idea where it is the fuses are fine none are blown. If it is the flash how do I get to it to replace it or is something else. If its the flash the replacement part is only $8.00 but i'm not sure what has killed my signals they dont even make the clicking sound. All other electrical functions are fine just the signals died

please help

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