Where is the turn signal relay located in a Toyota Corolla?
4 Answers
Corolla turn signal flasher relay is located in the fuse box in the front engine compartment. Turn signals are important indicator lights that activate when a motor vehicle is turning to alert surrounding vehicles and pedestrians. The turn signal bulbs use xenon tubes and are controlled by a microcontroller circuit, working continuously with alternating left-right flashing. Below are the reasons for turn signal failure: 1. If turn signals don't work but hazard lights do, the turn signal switch may be partially damaged; 2. If individual turn signals don't work, the bulb may be burnt out and needs replacement; 3. If all turn signals don't work, the turn signal fuse may be blown, causing complete failure.
Looking for the turn signal relay? The location varies across different model years of the Toyota Corolla. For older models like the 2009 version, it's inside the fuse box near the driver's left knee—you'll need to bend down to see the black cover. Open the cover, and you'll find a circuit diagram printed on the inner panel. Look for a small square labeled 'Turn Signal Relay' or 'Turn Signal'; the one that clicks when pressed is the one. For newer models, such as those from 2019 onwards, many are integrated into the body control module, making removal more complicated. If you're doing it yourself, first disconnect the negative battery terminal and use a flashlight to locate the relay, which is about half the size of a matchbox. If you can't find it, search online for 'your model year + Corolla fuse box diagram'—there are plenty of tutorial videos available. Just avoid forcing open the interior panels.
When the turn signal doesn't blink, it's mostly due to a faulty relay. The Corolla's relay location is quite interesting: in the classic models, it's hidden in the fuse box under the steering wheel—you'll need to crouch down to find it; in the hybrid version, it might be moved to the fuse box on the right side of the engine compartment. Last time I helped a neighbor fix a 2012 Corolla, I discovered its relay was actually above the accelerator pedal! Here's a simple trick: turn on the hazard lights and press each small square in the fuse box one by one—the one that stops the hazard lights from clicking when pressed is the culprit. Don't skimp on a new relay; the original Denso part only costs about 30-50 yuan, while aftermarket parts might fail in just six months. Having non-functional turn signals while changing lanes is too dangerous. Remember to turn off the power before starting, and use a plastic pry bar instead of a screwdriver to avoid damaging the car.
The relay location varies by model year. For 2006-2013 Corollas, check the fuse box near the driver's left foot area—there's a notch on the side to open it. Inside, the third row's second slot typically houses the turn signal relay, a black cube about the size of a fingernail. Post-2014 models may relocate it to the engine bay fuse box (the black case near the ABS pump). If turn signals blink faster in rain, the relay contacts are likely burnt. When replacing, gently unplug without forcing it. Also inspect the 20A flasher fuse in the same box—failure symptoms are similar. For older cars, oxidized wiring may cause poor contact; spraying WD-40 on the terminals adds safety.
