How to Turn On the Blinker

In most cars, move the turn-signal stalk on the steering column up for a right turn and down for a left turn; it usually cancels automatically after you finish turning. On motorcycles, use the left-thumb switch on the handlebar; on bicycles and many e-scooters without built-in indicators, use clear hand signals. Below is a detailed, vehicle-by-vehicle guide, plus safety tips and troubleshooting.

In a Car

Standard stalk controls

Most vehicles worldwide use a stalk on the steering column to control turn signals. While the stalk is usually on the left, some models (especially from Japanese manufacturers in certain markets) place it on the right. These steps outline the typical operation.

• Locate the turn-signal stalk on the steering column (commonly left side; sometimes right).
• Push the stalk up to signal a right turn; push it down to signal a left turn.
• For a brief lane change, move the stalk lightly until the indicators flash a few times, then release.
• Let the system auto-cancel after completing the turn; if it doesn’t, return the stalk to the neutral middle position manually.
• Confirm the arrow on the instrument panel is flashing and listen for the tick sound; unusually rapid flashing often means a bulb or LED fault.

These controls are designed for intuitive use without taking your eyes off the road; checking the dash indicator ensures the signal is active and confirms proper operation.

Vehicles without stalks (button-based systems)

Some newer cars have replaced stalks with steering-wheel buttons or on-screen controls. Tesla is the most common example, but always verify with your owner’s manual for your specific model and year.

• Tesla Model 3 (2023 “Highland” refresh and newer) and Model S/X (2021+ refresh) use left-side steering-wheel haptic buttons: press left or right to signal; a light press can trigger a lane-change blink, and a longer press sets a continuous signal.
• To cancel, press the active direction again or steer through the turn; the dashboard will show which signal is engaged.
• Hazard lights remain a separate physical button (red triangle), typically near the car’s centerline (often above the rearview area or on the center console).
• Other brands largely still use stalks as of 2024, but if your wheel has turn buttons, follow the on-screen prompts and manual.

If your vehicle uses buttons, practice while parked to learn press duration and cancel behavior; always rely on the instrument panel to confirm activation.

Hazard lights are not turn signals

Hazard lights make all indicators flash simultaneously to warn others of a breakdown or immediate hazard; they should not be used to indicate a turn or lane change.

• Activate hazards via the red triangle button, typically located on the center dash area.
• Use hazards when stopped in a dangerous spot, moving abnormally slowly due to a fault, or to alert others to a sudden obstruction.
• Turn hazards off once you’re moving normally or the hazard is cleared.

Reserve hazards for emergency visibility; using them as a turn signal confuses other drivers and can violate traffic laws.

On a Motorcycle or Scooter

Motorcycles and many scooters use a thumb-operated switch on the left handlebar cluster. Operation is straightforward but cancellation varies by model.

1. Locate the indicator switch on the left handlebar controls.
2. Push the switch left to signal left; push right to signal right.
3. Cancel by pressing the switch inward (common on many bikes) or returning it to center; some models auto-cancel based on time, lean angle, or distance.
4. Watch the dash indicator and, if present, a green arrow or “TURN” icon to confirm activation and cancellation.

Practice canceling promptly after turns; riding with indicators unintentionally on is common and can mislead other road users.

On a Bicycle or e‑Bike without Built-in Signals

Most bicycles do not have electronic turn signals, so clear, legal hand signals are essential. Some e-bikes and aftermarket kits add blinkers, but hand signals remain important.

• Signal left: extend your left arm straight out to the side.
• Signal right: extend your right arm straight out; where permitted, you may also bend your left arm up at the elbow with forearm vertical.
• Signal early, maintain control with your primary braking hand when possible, and make eye contact with drivers when you can.
• Consider adding battery-powered indicator kits or high-visibility gear to improve conspicuity, especially at night.

Effective hand signaling—done early and clearly—greatly reduces ambiguity for nearby drivers and riders.

On an E-scooter or Micro-mobility Device

Controls vary widely on e-scooters; some models offer built-in blinkers operated by thumb buttons, while others require hand signals.

• If equipped, use the left/right indicator buttons near the grips; some models require holding the button, others toggle on/off.
• If no indicators are present, use bicycle-style hand signals when it’s safe and you can maintain control.
• Increase visibility with reflective clothing and lights; check local rules on signaling requirements for micro-mobility devices.

Test your scooter’s controls in a safe area first so you can signal confidently without losing balance.

Common Mistakes and Quick Fixes

Turn-signal issues are usually simple to solve. These common symptoms can guide your next step.

• Rapid flashing (“hyperflash”): likely a burnt bulb (older cars) or LED fault; replace the bulb/module or fix wiring; some LED retrofits need a proper resistor or reprogramming.
• Signal won’t cancel: return the stalk to center manually; persistent issues may indicate a worn canceling mechanism or clockspring—have it serviced.
• Confusing wiper and indicator stalks: many cars place wipers on the opposite side; practice locating both before driving.
• Dead silence/no dash arrow: check fuses and bulbs; if all lights are out, consult a technician.

Addressing small faults promptly keeps your signaling reliable and prevents tickets or unsafe misunderstandings.

Regional Notes

While the basic operation is consistent, a few regional differences and legal requirements are worth noting.

• Stalk placement: often left side, but some markets and brands use the right; operation (up=right, down=left) is generally consistent.
• Signaling distance: many U.S. states require signaling at least 100 feet before a turn; some countries use time-based rules (e.g., signal for at least 3–5 seconds). Check local laws.
• Mandatory use: signaling is legally required for turns and lane changes in most jurisdictions.

Knowing your local rules helps you signal early enough and avoid fines or collisions.

Pre-drive Check: Quick Readiness

Before heading out in a new or unfamiliar vehicle, take a moment to confirm you can signal confidently.

• Identify the control (stalk, button, or switch) and practice left/right activation and cancellation while stationary.
• Verify exterior indicators and dash arrows work; replace bulbs or address faults as needed.
• If using hand signals (bike/scooter), practice signaling while maintaining stable control.

These 60-second checks reduce uncertainty on the road and improve safety from the first turn.

Summary

To turn on the blinker, use the steering-column stalk (up for right, down for left) or, in some newer cars, steering-wheel buttons; motorcycles use a left-thumb switch, and bicycles or unequipped e-scooters rely on clear hand signals. Confirm activation on your dash, cancel promptly after the maneuver, and follow local signaling rules. When in doubt—especially with button-based systems—consult your owner’s manual and practice while parked.

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.

What to do if your blinker is out?

All you need to do is pull the turn signal fuse, check to make sure its not blown, then bend the fuse blades sideways by about 10 degrees. Then shove that bad boy back in. Bending the blades will get them to touch the contacts again.

How do I turn on the indicator in my car?

Wheel. Usually what we try and do is stretch our fingers out to use the indicator. And by pushing it down there I’ve put a signal on to the left on the dashboard.

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.