Turn Signals: Description and Operation

TURN SIGNAL SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A turn signal system is standard factory-installed safety equipment on this model. The turn signal system uses ignition switched battery current, and will operate only when the ignition switch is in the On or Accessory positions. The turn signal system includes the following components:
- Combination flasher
- Front side marker lamps
- Turn signal cancelling cam
- Turn signal indicator lamps
- Turn signal lamps
- Turn signal switch.

Refer to Lamp in the Lamps for more information on the exterior turn signal lamps. Refer to Instrument Cluster in the Instrument Panel Systems for more information on the turn signal indicator lamps.

OPERATION
With the ignition switch in the On or Accessory position, and the turn signal (multi-function) switch control stalk moved up (right turn) or down (left turn), the turn signal system is activated. When the turn signal system is activated, the circuitry of the turn signal switch and the combination flasher will cause the selected (right or left) turn signal indicator lamp, front park/turn signal lamp, front side marker lamp and rear tail/stop/turn signal lamp to flash on and off. If the exterior lamps are turned off, the front park/turn signal lamp and the front side marker lamp will flash in unison. If the exterior lamps are turned on, the front park/turn signal lamp and the front side marker lamp will flash alternately

See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for more information on the features, use and operation of the turn signal system.

TURN SIGNAL CANCELLING CAM
DESCRIPTION
The turn signal cancelling cam is concealed within the steering column below the steering wheel. The turn signal cancelling cam consists of two lobes that are integral to the lower surface of the clockspring rotor. The clockspring mechanism provides turn signal cancellation as well as a constant electrical connection between the horn switch, driver side airbag module and speed control switches on the steering wheel and the instrument panel wire harness on the steering column. The housing of the clockspring is secured to the steering column and remains stationary The rotor of the clockspring, including the turn signal cancelling cam lobes rotate with the steering wheel.

The turn signal cancelling cam is integral to the clockspring and cannot be repaired. If faulty or damaged, the entire clockspring assembly must be replaced. Refer to Clockspring in the Airbags and Seat Belts/Airbags/Clockspring/Service and Repair for the service procedures.

OPERATION
The turn signal cancelling cam has two lobes molded into the lower surface of the clockspring rotor. When the turn signals are activated by moving the multi-function switch control stalk to a detent position, a turn signal cancel actuator is extended from the inside surface of the multi-function switch housing toward the clockspring rotor. When the steering wheel is rotated during the turn, one of the two turn signal cancelling cam lobes will contact the turn signal cancel actuator, releasing the multi-function switch control stalk from its detent and cancelling the turn signal event.