Hazard Warning Lamps: Description and Operation

GENERAL INFORMATION

WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAG, SEE AIR BAGS AND SEAT BELTS/AIR BAGS FOR AIRBAG REMOVAL.

Multi-Function Switch:

The turn signals are part of the multi-function switch, which contains:
- Electrical circuitry for turn signals Hazard warning switch
- Headlamp switch
- Fog Lamp Switch
- Headlamp beam select switch
- Optical Horn
- Instrument Panel Lamp Dimmer/Interior Lamp Switch
- Combination Flasher

The integrated switch assembly is mounted to the left hand side of the steering column. when the driver wishes to signal his intentions to change direction of travel, he moves the lever upward to cause the right signals to flash and downward to cause the left signals to flash. After completion of a turn the system is deactivated automatically. As the steering wheel returns to the straight ahead position, a canceling cam molded to the clockspring mechanism comes in contact with the cancel actuator on the turn signal multi-function switch assembly. The cam lobe, pushing on the cancel actuator, returns the switch to the off position.

If only momentary signaling such as indication of a lane change is desired, the switch is actuated to a left or right intermediate detent position. In this position the signal lamps flash as described above, but the switch returns to the OFF position as soon as the lever is released.

When the system is activated, one of two indicator lamps mounted in the instrument cluster flashes in unison with the turn signal lamps, indicating to the driver that the system is operating.

HAZARD WARNING SYSTEM
The hazard warning system is actuated by a push button located in the multi-function switch on the top of the steering column between the steering wheel and the instrument panel. The hazard switch is identified with a double triangle on front of the button.

Multi-Function Switch:

HEADLAMP SWITCH
The headlamp switch is part of the Multi-Function Switch. Refer to Multi-Function Switch Diagnosis and Testing, Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Flasher Diagnosis table.

COMBINATION FLASHER
The turn signal flasher and the hazard warning flasher are combined into one unit called a combination flasher (combo-flasher). The combo- flasher controls the flashing of the hazard warning system and the turn signal system. An inoperative bulb or incomplete turn signal circuit will cause the flasher rate to double.

Combination-Flasher:

The combo-flasher is located on the back of the multi-function switch. The combo-flasher is black in color and has a dampener material wrapped on it.