Flasher relays are essential components of your vehicle’s lighting system. They are responsible for the flashing of lights when you turn on your turn signals or emergency lights. The 8 pin flasher relay is commonly used in modern vehicles that have more advanced lighting systems. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the 8 pin flasher relay wiring diagram.
What is an 8 Pin Flasher Relay?
The 8 pin flasher relay is an electronic device that controls the flashing of lights in your vehicle. It is usually located in the under-dash fuse box or in the engine compartment. The 8 pin flasher relay is designed to handle the high currents required by modern vehicle lighting systems. It is also known as an electronic flasher or a turn signal flasher.
The 8 pin flasher relay is made up of eight pins that are connected to various components in the vehicle’s lighting system. Each pin has a specific function that is crucial to the proper operation of the flasher relay. The pins are usually labeled on the relay itself or on a wiring diagram.
How to Wire an 8 Pin Flasher Relay
The wiring of an 8 pin flasher relay is relatively simple compared to other types of electrical components. However, it is important to follow the wiring diagram for your specific vehicle to ensure proper operation.
The wiring diagram for an 8 pin flasher relay typically consists of six pins that are labeled as follows:
| Pin Number | Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | Power In |
| 2 | Ground |
| 3 | Load Out 1 |
| 4 | Load Out 2 |
| 5 | Hazard Switch (Optional) |
| 6 | Power Out (Optional) |
To wire an 8 pin flasher relay, follow these steps:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before you begin wiring your 8 pin flasher relay, it is important to disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical shocks or damage to your vehicle’s electrical system.
Step 2: Locate the Flasher Relay
The 8 pin flasher relay is usually located in the under-dash fuse box or in the engine compartment. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to locate the flasher relay.
Step 3: Identify the Pins
Identify the pins on your 8 pin flasher relay using the wiring diagram that came with your flasher relay or the one provided by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Make sure you know which pin corresponds to which function.
Step 4: Connect the Power In
The power in pin (pin 1) on the flasher relay should be connected to a 12V power source that is only active when the ignition is turned on. This could be a wire from the ignition switch or a wire from the fuse box that is only active when the ignition is on.
Step 5: Connect the Ground
The ground pin (pin 2) on the flasher relay should be connected to a solid ground source. This could be a wire that is connected to the chassis of the vehicle or a dedicated ground wire.
Step 6: Connect the Load Out 1
The load out 1 pin (pin 3) on the flasher relay should be connected to the turn signal switch or the hazard switch. This will send a signal to the flasher relay to activate the turn signal lights or the hazard lights.
Step 7: Connect the Load Out 2
The load out 2 pin (pin 4) on the flasher relay should be connected to the turn signal lights or the hazard lights. This will allow the flasher relay to send the flashing signal to the lights.
FAQs
Q: Can I use an 8 pin flasher relay for my vehicle?
A: It depends on your vehicle’s make and model. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic to determine if an 8 pin flasher relay is suitable for your vehicle.
Q: Why are my turn signals not flashing?
A: There could be several reasons why your turn signals are not flashing. It could be a problem with the turn signal switch, the flasher relay, or the wiring. Consult a professional mechanic to diagnose the problem.
Q: What is the difference between an electronic flasher and a mechanical flasher?
A: An electronic flasher uses solid-state components to control the flashing of lights, while a mechanical flasher uses a bi-metallic strip to control the flashing of lights.
Q: Can I install an 8 pin flasher relay myself?
A: If you have a basic understanding of electrical systems and wiring, you can install an 8 pin flasher relay yourself. However, if you are not confident in your abilities, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic.
Q: How do I test an 8 pin flasher relay?
A: To test an 8 pin flasher relay, you can use a test light or a multimeter to check for power at the power in pin and ground at the ground pin. You can also test for continuity between the load out pins and the turn signal or hazard switch.
Overall, the 8 pin flasher relay is an important component of your vehicle’s lighting system. Whether you need to replace your existing flasher relay or install a new one, it is essential to follow the wiring diagram for your specific vehicle to ensure proper operation. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic.
