How to Turn On Blinkers (Turn Signals): What to Do in Cars, Motorcycles, and More

In most cars, push the turn-signal stalk on the steering column down for a left turn and up for a right turn; a light tap gives a few blinks for lane changes, and hazards are activated by the red triangle button. Controls can vary, especially on newer vehicles that use steering-wheel buttons, so check your model’s layout. Below is a clear guide for cars, motorcycles, and other situations, plus when to signal and how to troubleshoot.

In a typical car (North America and most of Europe)

Most vehicles place the indicator stalk on the left side of the steering column. The motion is standardized: down for left, up for right. A partial press usually triggers a short “lane-change” sequence.

1. Locate the turn-signal stalk on the left of the steering wheel.
2. Turn the ignition on so the electrical system powers the indicators.
3. Push the stalk down to signal left; push it up to signal right.
4. For a lane change, lightly press the stalk in the desired direction; it typically blinks 3–5 times and stops.
5. Complete the turn; most systems self-cancel as the wheel straightens. If not, return the stalk to center by hand.
6. To use hazard lights, press the red triangle hazard button (usually centered on the dash); press again to turn them off.

Watch your instrument cluster for the green arrow indicator and listen for the tick. If the blink rate is unusually fast, a bulb may be out.

Cars with right-hand stalks (UK, Japan, Australia, and some imports)

Some right-hand-drive vehicles, especially Japanese imports, place the indicator stalk on the right side of the steering column. The movement remains the same: up for right, down for left.

1. Find the turn-signal stalk on the right of the steering wheel.
2. Down signals left; up signals right—identical motion, different side.
3. Use a light press for a lane-change sequence if available.
4. Cancel automatically after the turn or move the stalk back to center.
5. Hazards are still operated by the red triangle button on the dash or center console.

If you’re switching between vehicles with different stalk sides, take a moment before driving to confirm the layout to avoid confusing indicators with wipers.

Newer vehicles with buttons or touch controls (e.g., recent Teslas)

Some newer models have removed stalks entirely. Notably, Tesla Model S/X (2021 and later) and the 2024+ Model 3 use steering-wheel buttons or capacitive touchpads for indicators. Other brands largely still use stalks, but always verify your model.

• Tesla (Model S/X 2021+, Model 3 2024+): Press the left or right turn-signal button on the steering wheel to signal. A brief press gives a lane-change blink; press and hold for continuous signaling, or the system will cancel after the turn.
• Hazards in Teslas: Use the physical red triangle button (commonly on the headliner near the interior lights); an on-screen control may also be available.
• If your car has customizable “lane-change flash” counts, you can adjust this in the vehicle settings menu.

Look for on-screen arrows or instrument panel icons to confirm activation. If you’re in a rental or new-to-you vehicle, consult the quick-start guide or the vehicle’s settings for signal controls.

Motorcycles and scooters

Motorcycle indicators are controlled from the left-hand switch cluster. The mechanism can be a sliding switch or push-to-cancel button, and some bikes self-cancel based on distance or lean angle.

1. Locate the turn-signal switch on the left handlebar cluster.
2. Press left to signal left; press right to signal right.
3. Cancel by pressing the center (push-to-cancel) or sliding the switch back to the middle; some models auto-cancel.
4. Use hazard lights via the dedicated hazard switch if equipped.

Always verify cancellation—motorcycle indicators are easy to leave on, which can mislead other road users.

Bicycles and micromobility (e-bikes, e-scooters)

Most bicycles don’t have electronic turn signals, so use clear hand signals. Many e-scooters and some e-bikes include indicator buttons near the left-thumb throttle or control pad.

• Left turn (bicycle): Extend your left arm straight out to the left.
• Right turn (bicycle): Extend your right arm straight out to the right; alternatively, left arm bent up at 90 degrees (older convention).
• E-scooters/e-bikes with indicators: Use the left control pad to select left/right; check the dash or indicator lights for confirmation and cancel if necessary.

Signal early and make your intent obvious. Combine signals with lane positioning and eye contact where possible.

When to signal and how far in advance

Signaling is legally required in most jurisdictions and should always be done “in good time” before changing direction or lanes.

• Turns: Signal at least 3–5 seconds before turning; in many U.S. states the legal minimum is 100 ft (about 30 m), and some require 200 ft at higher speeds.
• Lane changes: Signal before you start moving over and keep signaling through the maneuver.
• Roundabouts: Signal on exit; signal left as you approach your exit to indicate you’re leaving the roundabout.
• Merging, pulling out, parking: Signal any time your path or position will change and affect others.
• Cancel promptly once complete to avoid confusing other drivers.

The rule of thumb: signal early enough for others to see, understand, and react—without signaling so early that your intent becomes unclear.

Troubleshooting if your blinkers don’t work

If your indicators fail or behave oddly, a quick check can often pinpoint the issue before you visit a shop.

• No lights at all: Confirm ignition is on; many cars require accessory or run mode for signals to operate.
• Rapid blinking (hyperflash): Often indicates a burnt bulb or LED failure on one side; replace the faulty unit.
• Steady on or no click: Check the appropriate fuse; older cars may have a flasher relay that can fail.
• One side only: Inspect that side’s front and rear bulbs and connectors for corrosion or damage.
• Hazards work but signals don’t: Points to the turn-signal switch, relay, or steering column module.
• Modern LEDs: Replacement may require compatible parts or resistor/coding; consult a technician.

If basic checks don’t resolve it, seek professional diagnostics—indicator faults can also affect other safety systems.

Common mistakes to avoid

Proper signaling is about timing, consistency, and clarity. These frequent errors reduce safety and can be ticketed.

• Signaling too late—start before braking for a turn.
• Leaving the signal on after a lane change or gentle bend.
• Using hazards instead of a turn signal while moving (hazards are for stationary or emergency situations).
• Relying solely on self-cancel—always check the cluster.
• Failing to signal in roundabouts or when exiting driveways and parking spaces.
• Signaling and moving immediately without mirror and shoulder checks; signaling is not a right-of-way.

Build a quick habit: mirror, signal, check, then maneuver—and confirm cancellation afterward.

Quick reference

Here’s a rapid cheat sheet for most driving scenarios.

• Left turn: Stalk down (or press left button on wheel-equipped cars).
• Right turn: Stalk up (or press right button).
• Lane change: Light tap for 3–5 blinks.
• Cancel: Auto after turn or return stalk/button to neutral.
• Hazards: Press the red triangle button on the dash/headliner.

Confirm activation on your instrument cluster—green arrows should blink in time with the exterior indicators.

Summary

To turn on blinkers, move the indicator stalk (down for left, up for right) or use steering-wheel buttons on newer vehicles; a light tap handles lane changes, and hazards use the red triangle button. Signal early, keep it on through the maneuver, and cancel promptly. If indicators misbehave, check bulbs, fuses, and—on older cars—flasher relays; seek service if issues persist.

How do I turn on blinkers in my car?

To turn on blinkers (turn signals) in a car, find the lever on the left side of the steering column and push it up for a right turn or down for a left turn. The indicator light on the dashboard will flash to show the direction of your intended turn, and the appropriate blinker on the outside of the car will also flash. To turn off the signal, push the lever back to the center position.
 
This video demonstrates how to use the turn signal lever: 23sPaul Kerr Driving School YouTube · Jul 27, 2023
How to Operate the Turn Signal Lever

1. Locate the Lever: Find the lever on the left side of the steering column. 
2. Signal Right: Push the lever up to activate the right turn signal. 
3. Signal Left: Push the lever down to activate the left turn signal. 
4. Cancel the Signal: Move the lever back to the center position to turn the signal off. 

When to Use Your Turn Signals

• Before Turning: Activate your turn signal about 100 feet (30 meters) before you make a turn. 
• Changing Lanes: Use your signal before changing lanes to alert other drivers. 
• Entering or Exiting Traffic: Signal when pulling out from a parking spot or merging into traffic. 

This video explains the importance of using turn signals: 47sZutobi Drivers EdYouTube · Jan 27, 2022
What to Do If a Bulb is Burnt Out
If you notice the turn signal light is flashing rapidly, it indicates that one of the turn signal bulbs is burnt out. You should get this fixed to ensure your vehicle is safe and compliant.

How do you do blinkers?

By pulling the lever down, you activate the signals on the right side of the car to indicate a right-hand turn. By pushing the lever up, you activate the signals on the left side of the vehicle for a left-hand turn. Brake lights come on automatically when you step on the brakes.

How do I turn on the indicators in a car?

So. This gives other drivers. And pedestrians. Enough notice that you plan to make a turn and allows them to adjust their driving accordingly.

How do I turn on the blinking lights on my car?

To flash lights in a car, use your hazard lights for general emergencies by pressing the red button, or flash your high beams by pulling the turn signal stalk toward you. For more complex or persistent flashing patterns, you can install an aftermarket BCM flasher or light module, which connects to the car’s electrical system and allows for custom light sequences and control over various external lights, though this requires wiring and installation. 
Using Factory Functions

• Hazard Lights: Opens in new tabLocate the hazard light button on your dashboard, often a red button with a warning triangle symbol, and press it to activate the flashing hazard lights. 
• High Beam Flashing: Opens in new tabOn the indicator stalk (turn signal lever), pull it toward you to momentarily flash your high beams. 
• Z-Flash or Similar Modules: Opens in new tabSome vehicles, particularly certain models, may offer a pre-installed module that can be activated by a specific sequence of button presses on the dashboard or key fob, as described in the Z-Flash product page. 

Installing Aftermarket Flashing Systems 

• BCM Flashers: These modules connect directly to the vehicle’s body control module (BCM), allowing you to control a broader range of lights and program specific flashing patterns.
• Installation: Installation involves tapping into the BCM and providing a power source. The process typically involves plugging the BCM flasher into the vehicle’s existing wiring harness and connecting the remaining wires to a power source and a momentary switch to cycle through patterns.
• Benefits: These modules offer greater control over your vehicle’s lights, allowing for complex strobe and flashing patterns that aren’t possible with factory functions.

Important Considerations

• Legality: Be aware of your local laws regarding the use of flashing lights on your vehicle, as they are often restricted to emergency vehicles or may have specific restrictions on private vehicles. 
• Purpose: Flashing your headlights is a form of communication to other drivers, but flashing your hazard lights is reserved for emergencies to signal a potential hazard or breakdown.