Flasher signal relay for LED's

SKOOZMAT

MEMBER
1999 JEEP WRANGLER
4.0L
6 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
176,000 MILES

I installed LED turn signals all around (2 pairs up front, and 1 pair in back which is also the brake light) and as expected, the turn signals were hyper flashing. I installed a new flasher relay designed for use with LED's. When I tested it out, nothing worked. I put the stock relay back in and that didn't work either - wasn't even getting the hyper flashing. I then put the standard filament bulbs back in (with the stock relay still installed), and thinks look like they are going a little haywire. The left signal worked but would hyper flash, the right signal wouldn't flash, but would just stay on. I turned on the headlights, and it changed things, but it still wasn't right, I just don't remember exactly what quirky thing was happening then. I checked the turn signal fuse and it was not blown. Hoping this is an easy fix, just not sure where to look next. Thanks!

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

I did a little research and came up with this information:

DESCRIPTION
The combination flasher is a smart relay that functions as both the turn signal system and the hazard warning system flasher. The combination flasher contains active electronic Integrated Circuitry (IC) elements. This flasher is designed to handle the current flow requirements of the factory-installed lighting. If supplemental lighting is added to the turn signal lamp circuits, such as when towing a trailer with lights, the combination flasher will automatically try to compensate to keep the flash rate the same.

While the combination flasher has a International Standards Organization (ISO)-type relay terminal configuration or footprint, the internal circuitry is much different. The combination flasher does not use standard ISO-relay inputs or provide ISO-relay type outputs or functions. The combination flasher should never be substituted for an ISO-relay or replaced with an ISO-relay, or else component and vehicle damage may occur.

Because of the active electronic elements within the combination flasher, it cannot be tested with conventional automotive electrical test equipment. If the combination flasher is believed to be faulty, test the turn signal system and hazard warning system circuits. Then replace the combination flasher with a known good unit to confirm system operation.

Now, I'm not sure what type relay was used when you installed a different one. Do the hazard lights work correctly? Also, I attached a pic below. Is that the relay that you switched? Have all of the original bulbs been reinstalled along with the OEM relay?

Let me know.
Joe

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Saturday, October 17th, 2020 AT 8:51 PM

SKOOZMAT

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thanks Joe. The aftermarket relay I used was a Novita EP26 relay that had a similar 4pin design as the stock relay. The hazards work just fine in all cases - ignition off, ignition on, ignition and headlights on. Although, the digital odometer reading is also flashing on the dash, but it is perfectly out of sync flashers.

With the same aftermarket relay installed and with all traditional halogens installed, everything works normally and I don't get that alternating flashing in the dash. I think I may just have to keep this setup.

Appreciate the help.

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Sunday, October 18th, 2020 AT 11:08 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

Honestly, with today's vehicles, you have to be real careful with changing electronics. They are much different and more sensitive to voltages/amperages than the vehicles of the past. I feel leaving it as designed is a good idea.

Please feel free to let me know if you have other questions or need anything.

Take care,
Joe

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Sunday, October 18th, 2020 AT 8:28 PM