occasionally my turn signals won't work. they either stop working entirely or only one side will work. the odd thing is that for some reason they start working again. is it the flasher or something else? has anyone else had this on a 98'?

 

A few of us have these problems and a thread has been started, looks like it is the multifunction switch in the steering column, although I havent replaced mine because it only acts up in the cold and we are finally gettin to summer here so I am gonna wait on it.

 

This is a BIG problem with the 97-98 models. I just replaced my multifunction switch about a month ago. I was going to take it apart and clean the contacts, but when I took it apart they were so bad with oxidation and corrosion I decided to replace it. It was $85 plus tax from the dealer, but I heard you can get it from www.fordpartsonline.com for around $55 plus shipping. Hope this helps.


JR Bob D.

 

Isi it hard to get to, I figured the air bags might cause a problem. How did you go about doing it.
thnx.

I am guessing it will just happen again though since it is replaced with the same part.

 

i need a little more info. What switch? is it the flasher unit or is it a part of the turn signal stalk itself? does it even have a flasher unit?

is the new part upgraded or is it still the same POS?

 

sounds like the multi-function switch. Fix it now, because it will also affect your headlights.

 

It sure does effect your headlights, I went to hit my brights once and they all went off. YIKES. It is the switch in the steering column that your turn signal is stuck into. Others have replaced the flasher unit, (which is under the dash or possibly in the engine bay it depends) and had no luck fixing the problem IT is the multifunction switch and it screws with everything that is on that post wipers, signals and lights I first noticed a problem with my wipers--the intermitent time wasnt always the same for the setting it was on, then my turn signals started flashing fast when the truck was cold then my headlights would go outignals, or in some cases come on when i hit the signals.. It does seems to be a cold climate thing it has never happened when warm, say 35 deg. F or above, and yes that is warm for here in the winter that is.

 

is there a way to repair the old unit or is it not worth the hastle?

 

Some people have mentioned taking it out and cleaning the leads, but I assume that will only hold off the problem a little longer. But if you get a new one and they havent changed the bad design then you just wasted even more money than just $3 bucks on some cleaner. I would try cleaning first or try and find out if Ford has changed the design.