What the “blinker stick” is called in a car

The “blinker stick” is commonly called the turn signal lever or turn signal stalk; in many countries it’s known as the indicator stalk. It’s part of the steering column’s multifunction (combination) switch used to signal left or right turns and often to control lights and other features.

What it’s called, and why names vary

Automakers and drivers use a few different terms for the same control, largely depending on region and maker. Below is a quick guide to the most common names you’ll hear for the “blinker stick.”

• Turn signal lever/stalk (United States and Canada)
• Indicator stalk (United Kingdom, Australia, and many Commonwealth countries)
• Blinker lever (colloquial, North America)
• Directional signal lever (older North American term)
• Combination or multifunction switch (the broader assembly that includes the lever)

While the vocabulary differs, all of these refer to the same driver control that signals turns and lane changes, usually mounted on the steering column.

What it does beyond signaling

Modern vehicles often integrate multiple functions into the same stalk or into a paired set of stalks on either side of the steering wheel.

• Left/right turn and lane-change signaling (spring-loaded “tap” or full detent)
• Headlight controls (on/off, auto, parking lights)
• High beam activation or flash-to-pass
• Fog light control (in some models)
• Wiper and washer controls (sometimes moved to a right-side stalk; varies by brand)
• Cruise control and driver-assistance toggles (in certain vehicles)

The exact combination varies by manufacturer and model; consult your owner’s manual to see which functions are on your car’s stalks.

Using it correctly

Correct signaling helps other road users anticipate your movements and is legally required in most jurisdictions. The steps below outline typical use.

1. Before turning or changing lanes, check mirrors and blind spots.
2. Move the lever up (right turn) or down (left turn) until it clicks into place.
3. Complete the maneuver; the lever usually self-cancels as the steering returns to center.
4. For a brief lane change, lightly tap the lever to engage the momentary “lane-change” function, if equipped.

If the lever doesn’t self-cancel, return it to center manually to avoid confusing other drivers.

Where you’ll find it, and exceptions

Traditionally, the turn signal lever is mounted on the left side of the steering column in left-hand-drive markets and often still on the left in right-hand-drive markets, though some brands place wipers on the opposite stalk. A small cam and switch assembly inside the column handles the canceling action. Notably, a few newer vehicles are moving to stalkless controls, replacing the physical lever with steering-wheel buttons or touchscreen prompts (for example, certain recent Tesla models). Even in those cases, the function is still referred to as the turn signal control.

Common issues and maintenance

Because the lever is used frequently, wear or electrical faults can occur. Recognizing symptoms helps you address problems early.

• Signals not engaging or not canceling after a turn
• Intermittent operation or rapid blinking (often a bulb issue, but can be switch-related)
• Headlights or high beams failing to switch via the stalk
• Wipers or fog lights (if integrated) not responding

Many problems trace back to the multifunction (combination) switch assembly or related wiring. Replacement of the switch or repair of the clock spring/canceling mechanism is a common fix; a qualified technician can diagnose the exact cause.

Summary

The “blinker stick” is properly called the turn signal lever or indicator stalk, and it’s part of the steering column’s multifunction switch. Beyond signaling turns and lane changes, it often controls lights, high beams, and sometimes wipers or other features. While a few modern cars are adopting stalkless designs, the function remains essential to safe, predictable driving.

What are the indicator sticks called?

What is the Car Light Stick? Also called the indicator stalk or light control lever. Usually located on the right or left side of the steering wheel (varies by car model). Controls indicators, headlights, high beam, parking lights, and sometimes wiper functions.

What is the turn signal stick called?

The turn signal stick is most accurately called the turn signal switch, but it’s also commonly known as the turn signal lever, turn signal stalk, or simply the stalk or light stick. It’s a multi-function switch located on the steering column that controls not only the turn signals but often also the headlights, wipers, and fog lights.
 
Common Names

• Turn Signal Switch: The most precise technical term. 
• Turn Signal Lever: Emphasizes the lever-like action of the control. 
• Turn Signal Stalk: Refers to its stalk-like appearance on the steering column. 
• Stalk/Light Stick: A more general term for the lever controlling various light functions. 
• Multi-function Switch: A more comprehensive term as this component often controls other vehicle systems besides the turn signals. 

Function
This switch is a critical input device for your vehicle’s lighting and other systems. 

• Activating Turn Signals: Moving the lever up or down activates the right or left turn signals, respectively. 
• Controlling Other Functions: On many cars, it also controls the headlights (high and low beams) and windshield wipers. 

This video shows how to replace the turn signal stalk on a Chevy truck: 58sJustin Nelson’s ProjectsYouTube · Oct 6, 2024

What is the blinker called on a car?

The light used to signal a turn is officially called a turn signal or indicator, but it is also commonly known as a blinker. Other less common terms include “directional,” “direction signal,” and “trafficator”. 
Here’s a breakdown of the terms:

• Turn Signal: Opens in new tabThe most formal and official name for the light that indicates a driver’s intention to turn or change lanes. 
• Blinker: Opens in new tabA widely used informal term, especially in North America, derived from the fact that the light flashes or blinks. 
• Indicator: Opens in new tabThe standard term used in British English and other regions. 
• Directional/Directional Signal: Opens in new tabAnother term that describes the function of the light in indicating direction. 
• Trafficator: Opens in new tabAn older and more obscure term for turn signals, sometimes associated with the older style of signals that protruded from the vehicle’s body. 

What is a signal lever?

PSA: there’s a lever on the left side of your steering wheel, it’s called an indicator light. Pull it down to show people that you’re turning left, or pull it up to show that you’re turning right.